Sundance kicks off in Utah with powerful premieres and emotional tributes to Robert Redford
January 21, 2026
The Sundance Film Festival kicks off Thursday morning in Utah, marking the first year without founder Robert Redford. His daughter, Amy Redford, shared in an interview Wednesday with The Associated Press that her father believed everyone has a story, a principle guiding this year’s festival. Over a dozen films will premiere on the opening day. They will include Amir Bar-Lev’s documentary on mountain climbing, Rachel Lambert’s drama “Carousel,” and Judd Apatow’s film about comedian Maria Bamford. Other highlights include a look at playwright Luis Valdez’s legacy and a midnight movie by Casper Kelly. The festival runs through Feb. 1.