Filmmakers and actors gathered in Park City, Utah, on January 19, 2026, to honor the legacy of Robert Redford during the opening gala of the Sundance Film Festival, marking the first festival since his passing. Known as the godfather of independent cinema, Redford’s influence and mentorship were celebrated by those whose careers he helped shape through the Sundance Institute, which he founded.
This year’s festival, the last to be held in Utah before moving to Boulder, Colorado, serves as a heartfelt tribute to the creative haven Redford established decades ago. His daughter, Amy Redford, emphasized the significance of the institute’s lab programs for writers and directors, which will remain in Utah. “When my dad could have created an empire, he created a nest,” she remarked, underscoring her father’s intention to support and nurture emerging talents.
The Sundance labs, initiated in 1981, provide a unique environment for aspiring filmmakers to develop their skills away from the pressures of Hollywood. Notably, three of the five nominees for Best Director at this year’s Academy Awards—Paul Thomas Anderson, Chloé Zhao, and Ryan Coogler—are alumni of these programs. Zhao highlighted the crucial role the screenwriting lab played in her career, stating that it allowed her to trust her vision while connecting her with a supportive community of creatives.
Reflecting on their experiences, former participants like director Nia DaCosta shared fond memories of Redford engaging with them during their time at the festival. She recalled moments of Redford, affectionately known as “Bob,” riding his motorcycle through serene wooded paths and discussing their projects. “He just looked so full of love and pride for us, for what he built,” DaCosta said, illustrating the deep connection Redford fostered with filmmakers.
Actor Ethan Hawke recounted his first audition in front of Redford for the 1992 film “A River Runs Through It.” After an intense preparation period, Hawke was told he was too young for the role but was assured of a promising future. Redford’s mentorship left a lasting mark on Hawke, who expressed his commitment to carrying on Redford’s legacy, stating, “I will keep the fire that he started burning in ourselves.”
As the festival began, a video tribute to Redford received enthusiastic applause from attendees. Many volunteers wore buttons that read “Thank you Bob!” Among the scheduled events is a screening of Redford’s first independent film, the 1969 sports drama “Downhill Racer,” further highlighting his significant contributions to cinema.
Filmmaker Ava DuVernay, who initially attended the festival as a publicist, noted Redford’s influence extended beyond establishing a festival. “He modeled a way to be, a way that matters, a way that says artists matter, that imagination is worth protecting,” she stated. Concluding her heartfelt tribute, she acknowledged the ongoing impact of Redford’s work, saying, “The door that he built is still open, and it’s up to us to walk through and to maybe even build our own.”
As the Sundance Film Festival continues, the impact of Robert Redford’s vision and mentorship remains a guiding light for future generations of filmmakers. The festival not only celebrates the art of filmmaking but also the profound legacy of a man who dedicated his life to nurturing creativity and independent storytelling.
