The Sundance Film Festival is set to proceed as scheduled in Park City, Utah, beginning on January 23, despite the devastating wildfires currently ravaging parts of Los Angeles. The festival organizers have confirmed the event will continue as planned, expressing solidarity with those affected by the crisis.
In a statement released on Monday, Sundance CEO Amanda Kelso and Festival Director Eugene Hernandez shared their support for the fire victims and acknowledged the challenges the community is facing. “Our community has a history of coming together when passion and perseverance are needed most, drawing strength from the deep bonds that make us so resilient,” the statement said. “Right now, we may mourn, but we also know it is important to keep going.”
This decision comes in the wake of the cancellation of several major Hollywood events, including the Critics Choice Awards, BAFTA Tea Party, and key industry nominations for the WGA and PGA. These events were called off due to the ongoing wildfires, which have caused widespread devastation across the region.
As of Sunday, Los Angeles County has reported a rising death toll of 24, with at least 16 people still missing. The majority of the fatalities occurred during the Eaton Fire, while eight lives were lost in the Palisades Fire. The wildfires have displaced nearly 200,000 people, and the fires have consumed an estimated 39,000 acres—an area approximately two-and-a-half times the size of Manhattan.
In light of the ongoing crisis, the Sundance Film Festival remains steadfast in its commitment to carry on. Festival organizers have emphasized the importance of resilience in the face of adversity and are hopeful that the festival will continue to be a symbol of collective strength for the entertainment industry and beyond.