Sundance Film Festival 2024 Post Strikes “Has A Slate That Is Ready To Meet Its Audience” As Buyers Desperately Need Product – Opening Day Presser
18.01.2024 - 16:59
/ deadline.com
In the wake of the dual strikes, the 2024 theatrical release schedule is in a bind, even streamers are desperate for product. Sundance, save us.
Eighty percent of this year’s film lineup is for sale, some even made on SAG/AFTRA interim agreements during the actors strike. That means there’s a lot up for grabs, and Sundance Film Festival Director and Head of Public Programming Eugene Hernandez anticipates a frenzy.
“There’s an enthusiasm (among buyers), everyone is showing up to connect with and consider films for distribution,” he said at this AM’s presser.
“We have assembled a program that includes movies that deserve to be and to find their audinces. Films are ready for their audiences,” added Hernandez.
“We have a slate that is ready to meet its audience,” he asserted.
“I think Sundance is a vital part of the entertainment ecosystem. I think it’s undervalued,” said Jason Blum kicking off the opening presser of the Sundance Film Festival.
“Without Sundance, the United States wouldn’t be where it is in terms of entertainment,” said Blum, the producer having launched Get Out here in a secret screening back in 2017, and also behind the 2014 movie Whiplash which went from festival acquisition title to ultimate 2015 3x Oscar winner.
He’s on the fest board and said he’s been coming here since 1992.
“It First came when Reality Bites was screening and Ethan and I got stuck in a snowbank and almost didn’t make it to the screening. It holds a very important place in my heart.” The prolific and hugely successful founder and CEO of Blumhouse Productions said “my business wouldn’t be what it is without Sundance.”
“So many people come to Sundance for the element of discovery, that is really present in this year’s program: