Sundance Film Festival to Leave Park City After Decades

The Sundance Film Festival, the premier event for independent cinema, is ending its decades-long run in Park City, Utah. The festival's organizers confirmed the relocation this week, marking a major shift for the film industry. Actor Ethan Hawke, whose career launched at Sundance in the 1990s, reacted to the news. “It’s hard not to feel a disturbance in the force,” he said. The festival has been held in the mountain town since 1981. It grew into a global showcase for independent films. A new host city has not yet been named. The search is now underway for a future location. The move will significantly impact Park City's economy. The event brings tens of thousands of visitors and millions of dollars to the area each January. Local businesses are expected to feel the loss. Festival directors stated the change is necessary for growth and accessibility. They aim to reach new audiences and support more filmmakers. Detailed plans will be announced later this year.