Sundance London Opens with Robert Redford and More

Yesterday, Editor-in-Chief Vivian Van Dijk attended the opening of Sundance London with Robert Redford, President and Founder of the Sundance Institute, John Cooper, Director of the Sundance Film Festival, and Alex Hill, Chief Finance and Strategy Officer of AEG Europe.

"An exciting start of Sundance London. There was a vibe in the air that is breathing that the audience is eager and London is ready for Sundance. A new experience in where the public can experience independent films far from Park City, in a different setting, in a different time frame and with a selective amount of films. A perfect try- out concept, that with no doubt will work out and have next year even a bigger presence in London. While independent American films are promoted, Sundance is looking into the options of also establishing film labs in London. This would be a great opportunity again to connect the two continents in film education and exciting co-productions. Sundance can tab into London's inspiration and London can enhance the offering of the aspirational vibe that Sundance triggers for filmmakers and professionals."

"I welcome the opportunity to see how people in the UK experience these films," said Robert Redford, President and Founder of Sundance Institute. "While they are American productions they speak to universal experiences and global challenges."

He went on to add, "Sundance London also is the perfect opportunity to continue our long-time commitment to growing a broader international community around new voices and new perspectives."

John Cooper, Director of the Sundance Film Festival, said, "Sundance London grew out of our desire to help American independent filmmakers expand their reach, and we are happy that these filmmakers are joining us on this adventure. Their participation has helped us to not only create a programme for Sundance London that reflects the diversity of our film festival in Park City, but also that helps build an enduring legacy of American stories that speak to international audiences."

Alex Hill, Chief Finance and Strategy Officer of AEG Europe, owners of host venue The O2, adds: "All at The O2 are very excited that the inaugural Sundance London film and music festival has started. The films which Sundance Institute is bringing to London reflect the strength, depth and breadth of American independent cinema that showcased earlier in the year at the Sundance Film Festival. They complement an exciting music component. In what is arguably the world's most culturally diverse city, The O2 is proud to be hosting such a prestigious festival."

In addition to film screenings, Sundance London is hosting live music performances and events each evening. Also on offer to Sundance London audiences are unique opportunities to attend panels and hear guest speakers talk about the part they play in making films, documentaries and the role of music in modern cinema.