It’s almost time to say goodbye to Park City, but not before one last wave of exciting indie films at Sundance. This festival is known for launching films that later shine at the box office and during awards season. This year’s roster showcases heartwarming stories, eye-opening documentaries, and surprise hits that keep audiences on their toes.
Here’s a look at some films creating a buzz as Sundance wraps up.
Buddy
Director: Casper Kelly
Stars: Cristin Milioti, Delaney Quinn, Topher Grace
Buzz: This horror-thriller brings some familiar faces from recent hits, along with a premise that’s sure to intrigue—an escape from a children’s TV show. With talents like Keegan-Michael Key and Michael Shannon on board, it’s sparking a lot of interest.
Carousel
Director: Rachel Lambert
Stars: Chris Pine, Jenny Slate
Buzz: A feel-good dramedy, it follows a father balancing his medical career and parenting while reconnecting with an old flame. Pine’s charm and Slate’s wit are expected to resonate well with audiences.
Gail Daughtry and the Celebrity Sex Pass
Director: David Wain
Stars: Jon Hamm, Zoey Deutch, John Slattery
Buzz: This comedy stands out at Sundance for its humor and a star-studded cast. It follows a bride-to-be on a quest for her celebrity “hall pass,” leading to some hilarious situations.
The Gallerist
Director: Cathy Yan
Stars: Jenna Ortega, Natalie Portman
Buzz: Set in the art world, this satire explores themes of wealth and ambition. With Ortega and Portman sharing the screen, it’s generating a lot of conversations.
The Invite
Director: Olivia Wilde
Stars: Wilde, Seth Rogen, Penélope Cruz, Edward Norton
Buzz: This film centers on a couple hosting an awkward dinner party. Wilde’s direction and a seasoned cast make it one to watch.
I Want Your Sex
Director: Gregg Araki
Stars: Wilde, Cooper Hoffman, Charli XCX
Buzz: A unique take on relationship dynamics, this film features an artist hiring an assistant to explore their creative and personal boundaries.
Josephine
Director: Beth de Araújo
Stars: Mason Reeves, Channing Tatum, Gemma Chan
Buzz: This drama delves into the aftermath of a traumatic event. It’s noted for strong performances, particularly from newcomer Mason Reeves.
Leviticus
Director: Adrian Chiarella
Stars: Joe Bird, Stacy Clausen
Buzz: An Australian supernatural horror film, it tackles teenage sexuality alongside eerie elements, capturing the festival’s late-night audience.
The Shitheads
Director: Macon Blair
Stars: Dave Franco, O’Shea Jackson Jr.
Buzz: This action-comedy revolves around two misfits on a mission to help a troubled teen, blending humor with heart.
See You When I See You
Director: Jay Duplass
Stars: Cooper Raiff, Kaitlyn Dever
Buzz: A heartfelt exploration of grief and creativity, this film combines impressive performances with a relatable storyline.
Soul Patrol
Director: J.M. Harper
Buzz: As traditional biopics wane, this documentary about the first Black special operations team in the Vietnam War reconnects them to share their compelling stories.
Wicker
Directors: Eleanor Wilson, Alex Huston Fischer
Stars: Olivia Colman, Alexander Skarsgard
Buzz: This fantastical comedy features Colman as an outsider in her village looking for love in an unexpected way.
Sundance continues to be a vital hub for creative storytelling, reflecting modern society’s complexities through diverse narratives. As the festival winds down, these films showcase the talent and innovation embedded within indie cinema today.
For more insights about this year’s festival line-up, check out the full coverage on The Hollywood Reporter.
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