Opening up to the world
Festival organizers are making efforts this year to encourage more international stories and filmmakers to come to Sundance.
“They saw the value in the continuing changing world we live in and that even American stories are coming from all over the world,” Dabis said.
“The movie is a universal story that's set in the Middle East, and we all know the Middle East is a place where we all need to expand our perceptions of what life is like there,” she added.
Sundance founder Robert Redford said the festival was all about encouraging diversity in filmmaking.
“As long as we go forward and we adapt to change, we keep in touch with our original purpose which is simply to support and develop new voices to be seen and heard,” Redford told reporters.
In addition to the usual film competition and premiere categories, festival organizers have expanded their slate of edgier films and projects, including actor James Franco's sexually explicit films “kink” and “Interior. Leather Bar.”
There is also a thriving short film initiative, with more than 40 films showcased.
Outside of the films, Sundance has become a hot spot for the film industry to escape the hustle of Hollywood's awards season and relax in Sundance's more relaxed vibe.
Live music will feature prominently, with a spotlight on electronic dance music and four pop-up clubs featuring DJs such as Nero and Afrojack.