Robert Redford, Robert Redford Sundance Tribute [Image Source: TRIBUNE]
On Friday night, the Grand Hyatt at Deer Valley hosted a poignant gala and fundraiser celebrating the legacy of Robert Redford, founder of the Sundance Institute. This event, titled Celebrating Sundance Institute: A Tribute to Founder Robert Redford, marked the final time the independent film nonprofit held such a gathering in Park City, following Redford’s passing in September.
The evening combined recognition of Sundance alumni’s achievements with a commemoration of the supporters who have helped sustain Redford’s vision—one that champions collaboration between emerging and established artists through the nonprofit’s filmmaking labs. This focus on fostering independent storytelling remained central throughout the festivities.
Introducing the Robert Redford Luminary Award
A highlight of the event was the inaugural presentation of the Robert Redford Luminary Award to Hungarian filmmaker Gyula Gazdag and American filmmaker and actor Ed Harris. Both have been instrumental as mentors in Sundance’s storytelling labs, guiding talented creators in developing their craft.
The award acknowledges those who dedicate their time, expertise, and influence to advancing independent filmmaking and creating valuable opportunities for new voices.
“It means the world, and I’m very honored they want to give me this Luminary Award,”
Harris shared in a pre-dinner interview.
“One of the reasons I’ve been at the labs for 20 years, trying to help Bob in his vision of supporting independent filmmakers and storytellers.”
– Ed Harris, Actor and Filmmaker
Gazdag expressed pride in witnessing the progression of the filmmakers he has mentored.
“It’s so good to see the alumni coming from the labs who are here, right now, tonight, like Chloé Zhao, Taika Waititi,”
he said.
Image of: Robert Redford
“It’s just such a wonderful feeling to see them, and then all of a sudden, (realize) they are not those children any more. They grew up and they are flying.”
– Gyula Gazdag, Filmmaker and Lab Mentor
Awards Celebrating Independent Cinema’s Rising and Established Stars
Chloé Zhao was honored with the Trailblazer Award, which recognizes artists dedicated to independent film. Zhao described the Sundance Institute as her extended family, noting the community’s supportive nature within the often-isolating film industry.
“Our industry could be quite lonely. You go from jobs to jobs to jobs,”
she said.
“Coming from this community means that every corner you turn you will see a familiar face, and you share memories of times together in the mountains. Because we have that little wink to each other, you’re never quite completely on your own.”
– Chloé Zhao, Filmmaker
Additionally, filmmakers Nia DaCosta and Geeta Gandbhir received Vanguard Awards, with Gandbhir recognized for her nonfiction work and DaCosta for fiction storytelling.
“It’s an honor because one of the things Sundance is best at is trusting artists and building community,”
Gandbhir explained.
“I feel (that) for those of us who begin here or have a film begin here or come through the labs, it doesn’t just end there. (The institute) is a place where people come back to and grow as artists. I think that’s really the kind of support artists need, particularly in this difficult time.”
– Geeta Gandbhir, Filmmaker
Remembering Robert Redford’s Impact on the Arts Community
The “difficult time” Gandbhir referenced relates to Redford’s recent passing, a loss deeply felt by many emerging filmmakers. Nia DaCosta reflected on Redford’s enduring influence and the unique environment he fostered.
“I wish he were here to see this, especially the last year in Park City,”
DaCosta said.
“He was a remarkable man. He built something really special and important. I am such a direct benefactor of him and his mind and what he built here. It’s a place where you become family, not just with the Sundance Institute and the festival, but also with the people you meet here.”
– Nia DaCosta, Filmmaker
Redford’s daughter, Amy Redford, who serves on Sundance’s board of trustees, shared her mixed emotions about the gala but emphasized the hope it represents for the organization’s future.
“Of course I have mixed emotions, but I’m also really excited,”
Amy said.
“This organization has always been artist focused. It means we stand behind them. We put wind in their wings. As long as artists want to tell stories, this organization will continue. We are still around because we’ve been agile in what we do for this amount of time. And I think we’ll continue to be agile.”
– Amy Redford, Sundance Institute Board Member
Sundance Community Voices on Robert Redford’s Legacy
Alongside film figures like Ava DuVernay, Chris Pine, Woody Harrelson, Ryan Coogler, Tessa Thompson, Rob Lowe, David Lowery, and Boots Riley, actor and filmmaker Ethan Hawke reflected on his long association with the Sundance Film Festival.
“I think I was first at the festival in ’91 or ’92, maybe,”
Hawke recalled.
“The first movie I had here was in ’94, and I’ve probably been here 12 times since then. It’s so full of memories for me.”
– Ethan Hawke, Actor and Filmmaker
Hawke stressed the responsibility among industry peers to continue Redford’s mission.
“The rest of us have to pick up the ball,”
he urged.
“We had, in him, somebody who really is an example of doing the good you have the power to do. He was somebody to whom a lot was given and who gave a lot back.”
– Ethan Hawke, Actor and Filmmaker
He further highlighted Redford’s rare leadership qualities.
“(He had this) ability to bring others along with him and empower others and cultivate voices and care about other people and care about not just his great work, but the work in our whole community,”
Hawke said.
“That’s the kind of leadership that we’re lacking in America right now — somebody who carries himself with aspirations for integrity, dignity, honesty, compassion — all those easy words to say and hard words to live (by). He was the North Star for a lot of us.”
– Ethan Hawke, Actor and Filmmaker
The Enduring Impact of Robert Redford and Sundance’s Path Forward
The gala not only served as a heartfelt farewell to Robert Redford but also celebrated the vibrant community he created at Sundance, which continues to nurture independent voices. The introduction of the Luminary Award and the honoring of accomplished filmmakers reaffirm the Institute’s commitment to supporting artistry and storytelling.
As artists and supporters come together to continue Redford’s vision, the Sundance Institute remains poised to adapt and thrive, fostering the next generation of filmmakers in the spirit of collaboration and creative freedom that defined its founder’s legacy.
