Sundance 2020: A Guide to Surviving the Film Festival

Lights, camera, Sundance! Ah, the annual gathering of Hollywood elite, indie filmmakers, and film buffs alike. The 2020 Sundance Film Festival brought us a wide range of films, from the heartwarming to the downright bizarre. As a self-proclaimed movie buff, I took it upon myself to see as many films as I possibly could, and now I’m here to share my thoughts. So, grab some popcorn and settle in for a fun review of the films at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival.

Let’s start with the good. One film that really stood out to me was “Minari.” This heartwarming tale of a Korean-American family chasing the American Dream was beautifully shot and expertly acted. Steven Yeun, who you may recognize from “The Walking Dead,” gives a standout performance as the father of the family. This film will make you laugh, cry, and everything in between.

Another film that deserves recognition is “The Nest.” Set in the 80s, this drama follows a family’s move from the United States to England. The cinematography and score were both excellent, and Jude Law gives a career-best performance as a man desperately trying to keep up appearances. Be warned, this film is not for the faint of heart – it’s a slow burn that will leave you feeling uneasy.

Now, onto the bad. Unfortunately, not every film at Sundance was a winner. “Lost Girls” was a disappointing crime drama that felt like it was trying too hard to be “Gone Girl.” The story, which revolves around a mother searching for her missing daughter, was predictable and lacked any real suspense. It’s a shame, because the performances were solid, but the script just couldn’t hold up.

Finally, we have the ugly. “Spree” is a horror-comedy that follows a ride-share driver who goes on a killing spree to gain social media fame. This film was a mess – the humor fell flat and the violence was gratuitous. I get what the filmmakers were going for, but it just didn’t work.

But fear not, dear reader. As a seasoned Sundance attendee, I am here to offer you a witty guide to surviving the 2020 Sundance Film Festival. First things first, dress for the occasion. Sundance is not the place for your stilettos and fancy dresses. It’s cold, it’s snowy, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking. So, bundle up in your warmest puffer jacket and snow boots. And don’t forget your hat and gloves – you don’t want to miss a screening because you’re nursing frostbite.

With over 100 films screening at Sundance, it can be overwhelming to decide what to see. My advice? Trust the buzz. If a movie is generating a lot of hype, it’s probably worth checking out. But don’t be afraid to take a chance on a lesser-known film. Some of my favorite Sundance experiences have been discovering hidden gems.

Of course, no trip to Sundance would be complete without some celebrity sightings. But don’t be that person who stalks every famous person they see. Be cool, be respectful, and remember that they’re just people too. And if you do manage to strike up a conversation with a celebrity, for the love of all that is holy, don’t ask for a selfie.

Now, let’s talk about the parties. Sundance is notorious for its wild, star-studded events. But again, be cool. Don’t be the person who gets too drunk and makes a fool of themselves. And if you do happen to spot your favorite celebrity at a party, resist the urge to fangirl. Instead, introduce yourself like a normal human being and make some small talk. Who knows, you might just make a new friend.

Finally, let’s talk about the food. Look, I’m not going to lie to you. The food at Sundance is expensive and not always great. But there are some hidden gems if you know where to look. My personal favorite? The grilled cheese stand on Main Street. Trust me, it’s worth the wait.

In conclusion, the 2020 Sundance Film Festival had some real gems, but also some duds. If you’re looking for a feel-good film, check out “Minari.” If you’re in the mood for a slow-burn drama, give “The Nest” a watch. And if you’re into horror-comedies, maybe skip “Spree” and re-watch “Shaun of the Dead” instead. But with a little bit of preparation and a whole lot of humor, you’ll survive Sundance just fine. So, bundle up, trust the buzz, be cool, and don’t forget to indulge in a grilled cheese or two. Happy Sundancing!