Sean Evans, the host of Hot Ones, might seem like an unusual speaker for Sundance Film Festival. He’s famous for challenging celebrities like Margot Robbie and Gordon Ramsay to eat spicy chicken wings during interviews. This focus on food and fun seems different from the serious world of film and documentaries.
However, Evans’ presence at Sundance reflects a growing trend. More influencers are attending major entertainment events like Cannes and Sundance to broaden their horizons and extend their careers. Gabe Gordon, CEO of Reach Agency, notes that these events are vital for learning and networking.
This shift in focus has led to the creation of Sundance’s first Creator Day, a special event aimed at the creator economy. Scheduled for Saturday, January 25, this invite-only day is organized by BrandStorytelling and aims to highlight the influence of creators in today’s media landscape.
Traditionally, Sundance has emphasized long-form content and film. This year, they’re dedicating a whole day to creators, showcasing their importance in the industry. Instead of just featuring the newest faces in the field, the event highlights seasoned creators who have weathered changes in the digital landscape. Notable attendees include Rhett McLaughlin and Link Neal from Good Mythical Morning, who began their journey on YouTube in 2012.
According to Pilaar Terry, COO of POV Agency, the goal is to include a diverse range of voices in the discussions. They want to bring in creators who are making cultural waves while emphasizing varied experiences with brands.
Other speakers at the event include Jaeki Cho, who showcases minority-owned restaurants in New York City through food videos; filmmaker and musician Joe Penna from Brazil; and Michelle Khare, a former BuzzFeed producer and YouTuber. They’ll discuss topics like “Small Screen to the Big Screen: The Creator Journey from Meme to Movie Star” and “Flipping the Script: How Authenticity and Engagement Trump Traditional Advertising.”
Gordon, who is co-hosting Creator Day, explains that the panels aim to challenge stereotypes about influencers and highlight their roles in filmmaking and marketing. Around 400 guests from various entertainment sectors are expected to join in, marking an important step toward including influencers in Sundance’s programming.
As the entertainment community embraces this change, Terry emphasizes the importance of these conversations for creators. It’s about finding sustainable ways to keep their careers thriving and making sure they have a seat at the table.