I originally posted this to Reddit on Feb. 2.
The Utah era of the Sundance Film Festival came a close just before 2 this morning following the final screening of the 2026 event — Makoto Nagahisa’s “Burn” at the Broadway Centre Cinemas. I snapped this pic leaving the theater.
I don’t think the screening sold out, but the house seemed close to full. Many in the audience were appreciative that these were the festival’s final moments in Utah, shouting “Thank you, Bob!” at the tribute reel and giving one last hurrah for the festival before the film.
The staff member introducing the picture acknowledged the moment and took a selfie with the crowd.
There wasn’t much pomp following the film, which I found to be quite engaging. I did say thank you to staff and volunteers on my way out.
Part of me was wondering if there would be more attention placed on these final moments, but it seemed fitting for things to end with the credits rolling and some audience members engaging in individual conversations on what they thought about the film.
Over the years, I was really only able to attend about two screenings a year starting in 2017 before taking a huge pause after COVID. I came back this year to see “Hot Water” and “Burn.”
I definitely appreciated all the creativity and spark the festival, filmmakers and other creators, volunteers, filmgoers, organizers and more brought to this state. I know showbiz is about business, but I enjoyed sharing this ongoing and joyous celebration of all things cinema as part of the decades-long effort to foster and grow independent film. Being at Sundance every year never failed to bring a smile to my face.
A lot of us will be parting ways as the festival moves to Colorado, while acknowledging that much of the institute’s work will continue in Utah.
Even as this chapter ends, there is excitement about Boulder. Several of the volunteers said they were planning on following the festival to its new digs. I’m not sure if I’ll make the jaunt over the Rockies to attend.
Just as all movies end, the Sundance festival’s time in Utah has faded to black. Unlike most movies, there will be a sequel.
So, farewell for now. We’ll meet again, I don’t know when but we do know where.
The future’s all yours, Boulder.
