PARK CITY, Utah — The Sundance Film Festival, renowned for highlighting independent storytelling, wrapped up its 2025 edition with vibrant celebrations and powerful awards, including the coveted Festival Favorite Award, which went to Ryan White’s documentary, Come See Me in the Good Light. This poignant film, driven by the touching narratives of poets Andrea Gibson and Megan Falley, follows their emotional journeys amid Falley’s battle with cancer. The festival concluded its ten-day celebration of film on February 2, 2025, leaving both participants and audiences eager for the highly anticipated next edition.
The documentary Come See Me in the Good Light was particularly well-received at the festival, capturing the hearts of viewers with its blend of humor and heartbreak. Gibson and Falley’s story, which is intertwined with themes of love, life, and mortality, struck chords with the audiences. With executive producers like Tig Notaro and Brandi Carlile backing this intimate project, the documentary certainly stood out among the diverse offerings at Sundance this year. "Festival goers embraced the humor and heartbreak...as it speaks to art and love and reminds us what it means to be alive as we face mortality," said Kim Yutani, Sundance Film Festival Director of Programming.
Alongside the excitement surrounding the Festival Favorite Award, the Sundance Institute also announced the dates for the 2026 Sundance Film Festival. Set to take place from January 22 to February 1, 2026, this edition will be particularly significant, potentially marking the last Sundance hosted primarily in Park City. Following the current contract’s expiration, there are plans to relocate the festival, sparking discussions about prospective new host cities, including Boulder, Colorado; Cincinnati, Ohio; and Salt Lake City.
"The past 11 days of the Festival have been meaningful...in support of independent storytelling," said Amanda Kelso, Acting CEO of Sundance Institute. Both Kelso and Eugene Hernandez, Director of Public Programming, expressed their exuberance for the upcoming festival, stating, "We invite you to save the date and get ready to join us... it will be a Festival you won’t want to miss!"
At the recent festival, the Festival Favorite award, decided by audience votes, was the highlight among many recognitions and awards. The top runners-up for this award included significant films such as Deaf President Now!, The Alabama Solution, and Andre Is an Idiot, indicating the competitive nature of the festival.
This year, the festival featured several noteworthy narrative and documentary films, with minimal distribution deals made as it wrapped up. While only two films secured distribution, many others are still seeking opportunities, indicating the unique dynamics of independent film distribution.
The speculation surrounding the 2027 festival and its new location has generated considerable excitement, especially among festivalgoers who cherish the unique atmosphere of Park City. "This year’s festival is coming to an end, but we’re already planning for 2026... it will be unforgettable!" Hernandez enthused.
For those wishing to make one last trip to Park City, 2026 may offer the final opportunity to bask in the iconic winter festival atmosphere before Sundance shifts to possible new grounds.
With continuous engagement from audiences and artists alike, Sundance remains committed to uplifting bold narratives and fostering connections within the independent film community. Future announcements about the 2027 host city and related developments are anticipated to keep the festival community abuzz.