Sundance 2026: Why Major Deals Are MIA—Insider Secrets Unveiled! You Won't Believe the Tension!

PARK CITY, Utah — The third day of the Sundance Film Festival is underway, marked by a brisk day with temperatures hovering around 24 degrees. As attendees gather in this scenic mountainous landscape, the festival remains a crucial space for filmmakers to showcase their work amid the backdrop of real-world anxieties, particularly the recent violence in Minneapolis that weighs heavily on minds and hearts.

“These are not normal times,” actor Edward Norton stated in an interview on Sunday morning. “It’s like we have extrajudicial assaults on Americans and humans going on on a daily basis now. And it’s not OK. Even though all people kind of have to put one foot in front of the other and deal with the demands of the day, we cannot act like this is not happening.”

Amidst this dialogue, film critic Amy Nicholson has begun her coverage of the festival, offering insights into an eclectic mix of films, from the dark comedy “Buddy” featuring a killer unicorn, to the nostalgia-infused “The Moment” starring Charli XCX. She reflects on her own experiences in Park City, writing, “I’m not ready to end my own Park City winter era just yet.”

Recapturing a Lost Summer from the Malibu Fires

Director Tamra Davis presented her documentary “The Best Summer,” which revisits her mid-‘90s tour with her then-husband, Mike D of the Beastie Boys. Amidst the devastation of last year's Malibu fires—thankfully, her home survived—the documentary was born from a collection of raw video interviews.

In her film, Davis captures a nostalgic journey filled with live performances from iconic bands like Bikini Kill and Pavement, transporting viewers back to a time when concert-goers were unencumbered by smartphones. Notably, the documentary features a young Dave Grohl expressing his stage fright to Kathleen Hanna, alongside vibrant performances from the Beastie Boys and Beck, who humorously reveals that he bought his underwear at Sears.

Attending the premiere, Franko reported on the vibrant audience reactions, and during the Q&A, Hanna shared lighthearted anecdotes about life on tour, including the time Pat Smear of the Foo Fighters “stole her skirt.”

What's on Today’s Schedule?

The festival continues with key screenings that highlight various social issues and personal tales. One such film is “All About the Money,” directed by Sinéad O’Shea, which centers on Fergie Chambers, a heavily-tattooed heir to an influential family. Chambers’ journey unfolds as he funds an activist commune in Massachusetts, only to pivot when protests turn contentious, raising questions about privilege and accountability in activism.

Another highlight is “Union County,” a poignant film exploring the human toll of the opioid crisis through a blend of documentary and narrative styles. Directed by Adam Meeks, the film focuses on the stories of individuals attempting to rebuild their lives while engaging with a court-mandated rehab program. The cast includes Will Poulter and Noah Centineo, who portray foster brothers navigating their struggles within the system.

As the festival progresses, buzz surrounding potential deals is palpable. Historical trends indicate that major acquisitions often occur toward the end of Sundance, and industry insiders are already discussing films like “Josephine,” featuring Channing Tatum and Gemma Chan, and “Wicker,” starring Olivia Colman. There is optimism among filmmakers, as new buyers emerge in the market, including Warner Bros.’ new specialty label and indie studios like Black Bear.

As festival-goers navigate the complex layers of film and societal issues, Sundance continues to serve as a significant platform for dialogue, reflection, and potential change. The convergence of art and activism remains a powerful theme, reminding us of the impactful role of storytelling in addressing contemporary challenges.