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The 2025 Sundance Film Festival marked its 41st edition with a dazzling array of films that continued the festival’s long-standing tradition of showcasing innovative and thought-provoking cinema. Running from January 23 to February 2 in Utah, this year’s lineup brought over 85 features and six episodic projects to audiences both in Park City, Salt Lake City, and online. As Sundance founder Robert Redford promised, the 2025 program was a vibrant global celebration of storytelling, offering a wide-ranging selection of films that spanned genres, themes, and creative voices.
Among the highlights, a number of films stood out for their bold ideas, star-studded casts, and powerful narratives. Here’s a look at some of the standout films that premiered at the festival.
Atropia (U.S. Dramatic Competition)
Directed by Hailey Gates, Atropia takes a clever and satirical look at post-9/11 American culture. Set against a backdrop of 2000s nostalgia, the film blends humor with a poignant commentary on the atmosphere of division and war that has pervaded the U.S. for decades. Featuring performances by Alia Shawkat, Callum Turner, and Chloë Sevigny, Atropia offers a biting critique of the cultural landscape that feels both timely and deeply reflective.
The Ballad of Wallis Island (Premiered)
James Griffiths’ The Ballad of Wallis Island is a whimsical rom-com with a music-infused heart. The film, which stars Carey Mulligan, takes audiences on a journey through the emotional complexities of unrequited love. Its charming mix of humor and tender romance offers a refreshingly lighthearted escape from the darker themes that dominate the festival.
Bubble & Squeak (U.S. Dramatic Competition)
A surreal comedy from director Evan Twohy, Bubble & Squeak embraces the quirky spirit of Sundance. The film’s eccentricity might not appeal to all, but for those who love oddball humor, it’s a delightful ride. The story’s bizarre premise—a road trip filled with eccentric characters—is an example of the offbeat sensibility that the festival is known for.
Bunnylovr (U.S. Dramatic Competition)
Katarina Zhu’s Bunnylovr offers a raw and cathartic exploration of the complexities of online intimacy and personal connections. Drawing inspiration from her own relationship with her absent father, Zhu’s film taps into the universal desire for belonging in an increasingly digital world. The film’s exploration of love and identity resonated with many festival-goers.
By Design (Next)
Amanda Kramer’s By Design takes a more experimental approach, focusing on consumerism and status through a surreal lens. Starring Juliette Lewis and Mamoudou Athie, the film’s disorienting narrative may not be for everyone, but it challenges traditional notions of storytelling with open-ended ideas that provoke thought and conversation.
Jimpa (Premiered)
Featuring standout performances from Olivia Colman and John Lithgow, Jimpa is an emotional family drama directed by Sophie Hyde. Lithgow’s portrayal of a self-centered man grappling with the end of his life is both moving and humorous. The film’s exploration of family, aging, and the importance of human connection left audiences deeply touched.
Kiss of the Spider Woman (Premiered)
Directed by Bill Condon, Kiss of the Spider Woman brings a captivating musical about the complexities of fame and love to the Sundance stage. With a talented cast including Jennifer Lopez and Diego Luna, the film is both a celebration of artistic genius and a poignant commentary on the struggles of living under the public eye.
Last Days (Premiered)
Justin Lin’s Last Days dives into the controversial story of missionary John Chau. Blending elements of adventure with an exploration of morality and purpose, Lin’s latest work is a compelling examination of human ambition and the cost of a singular mission.
The Legend of Ochi (Family Matinees)
A visually stunning fantasy film directed by Isaiah Saxon, The Legend of Ochi recalls the adventurous spirit of past family-friendly cinema. The film is a breath of fresh air, bringing enchanting visuals and a timeless tale that appeals to both young and old audiences alike.
Love, Brooklyn (U.S. Dramatic Competition)
A love letter to Brooklyn, Love, Brooklyn tackles themes of relationships, family, and emotional growth. The film’s portrayal of a man at a crossroads in his life—played by André Holland—delves into the complexities of modern romance and personal evolution.
Opus (Midnight)
Mark Anthony Green’s Opus critiques the culture of celebrity worship and media consumption, offering a poignant commentary on how fame affects our identities. Ayo Edebiri shines in a performance that critiques the toxic nature of “stan” culture, making the film a thought-provoking exploration of modern media.
Sly Lives! (AKA The Burden of Black Genius) (Premiered)
Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson’s documentary about Sly Stone is a celebration of the genius and struggles of the legendary musician. The film offers an in-depth look at Stone’s impact on music and culture while exploring the difficulties of living under the weight of fame.
Together (Midnight)
Michael Shanks’ Together, starring Dave Franco and Alison Brie, is a dark romantic thriller that combines elements of suspense with an exploration of toxic relationships. The film’s tension-filled narrative and complex character dynamics make it one of the more intriguing offerings in the festival’s Midnight section.
Twinless (U.S. Dramatic Competition)
James Sweeney’s Twinless is a unique and comedic exploration of loneliness, anxiety, and self-discovery. Starring Dylan O’Brien and Sweeney himself, the film navigates the emotional turbulence of modern life with humor and tenderness.
The Wedding Banquet (Premiered)
Andrew Ahn’s The Wedding Banquet tackles issues of attraction, identity, and cultural expectations with unapologetic boldness. Starring Kelly Marie Tran and Bowen Yang, the film pushes boundaries while offering a heartfelt exploration of love and human connection.
Sundance 2025 solidified its place as one of the most important film festivals in the world, showcasing a diverse array of films that reflect both global and personal narratives. From experimental works to heartfelt dramas, this year’s program emphasized the festival’s commitment to pushing boundaries and exploring the complexities of the human experience. As Sundance continues to evolve, it remains a vital platform for emerging filmmakers to share their stories with the world.