A summary of the Sundance Film Festival
Festival Sign
My experience at Sundance overall was extraordinary, and was something I could never dream of doing in a lifetime. I was able to experience movies firsthand before the public, including both the successes and the flops. The rare combination and diversity of films available for public viewing where what made the festival so special. It was a combination of everything, the people, the food, the location, and the nightlife. As a class we there from January 15th to the 25th, but it felt like much shorter than ten days. . While ten days is a long time, in the culture of Park City it feels like two. There simply is too much to experience in park city so sadly something’s are left unturned.
Cool Photo Offline
Entering the festival it is true, I did not know what to expect, I was much of a virgin to the film culture, and joined for the experience. It didn’t satisfy any requirement on my major, or fulfill some expectation. I joined the course, because it was something I have always wanted to do, and something I hope to experience again. As a class we were required to watch 15 films and here is my list in no particular order.
The Films
Against the Current- The story of a once rich broker, whom had nothing left to gain ad lost it all. It deals with this struggle to regain happiness and facing his insecurities by swimming the Hudson River.
Why We Laugh- An extremely boring 2 hours documentary about the evolution of African American Comedy in the United States
Moon- A sci-fi thriller staged in the future, where we found a way to harvest electricity from the moon. This is the story of the man isolated on that planet and all that ensues.
Taking Chance- The film of Sundance, Kevin Bacon stars as Lt. Michael Strobel whom was a military escort. This depicts, the journey and honors the military in a non-political war drama. Excellently put together and sponsored by HBO Film’s a must see.
Bronson- Charles Bronson Britain’s most notorious criminal, the film depicts his life starting from a child to his death in prison. A must see for any fanatic, while it has an odd sense of humor, historical in the same sense.
Brooklyn’s Finest- Richard Gere’s latest film a story about the state of the NYPD, as they battle with corruption, extortion amongst countless other issues
The Carter- Finally what we have all been waiting for a documentary about Little Wayne.. Merely a camera crew following him around for a couple months nothing worth following… I mean watching.
The Reckoning- A documentary focusing on the trials and tribulations of the ICC (International Court System) Provides us with insight, that we never thought we would see excellently put together.
The Killing Room- A less sophisticated version of SAW involves four people coming in for a paid study. Only one will exit, a definite must watch which keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Big River Man- I actually had personal encounters with this man, an amazing individual at that who swam the entire Amazon River DRUNK… actually you need to see the movie to understand what I mean.
Tyson- A documentary looking into Mike Tyson’s downfall as a boxer and as a person quite scary when you think about it.
Mystery Team- A comical thriller made from the same director as Super Bad. While not as funny had some redeeming qualities as a group of teenagers attempts to solve a case in unorthodox fashion.
Lunch Break Exit- The worst movie I saw at Sundance, a slow-motion documentary about the American workforce, and how they spend their time during breaks.
The Missing Person- An ex cop, whom turned private investigator for unknown reasons, is asked to trail a man who saves orphans but doesn’t know why. A movie about morals and integrity not for the weak hearted.
Good Hair- A hilarious documentary starring Chris Rock and the current state of African American hair. Addresses all the stereotypes, and implications that come along with being an African American, focusing on their style of hair.
Tags: Alex McDonald