If you love cinema, the Sundance Film Festival is the place to be. Founded more than 30 years ago by actor Robert Redford, the festival has always maintained a sense of originality and unique vision when it comes to the films shown. The year of 2010 is no different. Genres ranging from drama to comedy to horror are all on display, bringing something different to the cinema table.
Many films were hotly anticipated before the festival began and after showings, the buzz has been very positive. One of these films has been "The Runaways," which focuses on the titular band and more importantly, Joan Jett, played by Kristen Stewart. The performances by both Stewart and her co-star, Dakota Fanning (playing Cherie Currie), have been held in high regard as well. As much I would have liked to have seen this film, it was sold out. Guess that shows you how popular it is...
Another film that has been received well has been "High School," a film yours truly was able to watch and enjoy. The story revolves around a valedictorian who tries pot for the first time only to learn that his entire school is going to be screened for drugs the next day. It was a very enjoyable (albeit dark at times) comedy and director John Stalberg Jr. was wonderful at the Q&A session, answering questions both silly and technical with energy. The man will definitely be going places.
Adrien Brody turns in quite a performance as a warped drug dealer named Psycho Ed. He's just awesome in this movie and along with this and another Sundance gem "Splice," the man shows that he has versatility when it comes to acting.
Finally, another popular film at the festival has been that of director Adam Green's "Frozen," a tale about three skiers who get stuck on a ski lift after hours and have to battle the conditions to survive. Supposedly, a woman fainted during one of the screenings, which only shows how powerful the film is. I was lucky enough to meet Adam Green while waiting in line for another film. He was a very cool guy, down-to-earth, and just insanely nice. I'm hoping to try and get tickets to a showing, because this seems like one not to miss.
Everything else has been quite exciting here. From going to panel discussions to seeing some celebrities (Joseph Gordon-Levitt among them), it's been another great trip thus far. I've only seen a few movies, but I'm looking forward to more and hopefully, you'll be hearing about them from me soon.
