Filmmakers and actors gathered at a gala on Friday night to honor the legacy of Robert Redford, whose mentorship played a significant role in shaping independent cinema. This event coincided with the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, marking the festival’s final year in Utah before its relocation to Boulder, Colorado. The evening served as a tribute to Redford’s enduring influence and the creative haven he established for filmmakers.
Celebrating a Legacy of Support
During the gala, attendees reflected on how the Sundance Institute, founded by Redford, became a vital platform for emerging filmmakers. His daughter, Amy Redford, shared insights into her father’s vision, stating, “When my dad could have created an empire, he created a nest.” She emphasized that the institute was designed to “support and protect and nourish” new voices in storytelling.
The labs at the Sundance Institute, initiated in 1981, continue to be a cornerstone of its mission. Each year, they invite aspiring writers and directors to develop their skills in a nurturing environment away from the pressures of Hollywood. Notably, three of the five nominees for Best Director at this year’s Academy Awards—Paul Thomas Anderson, Chloé Zhao, and Ryan Coogler—are alumni of these programs. Zhao, whose film “Hamnet” received eight Oscar nominations, credited the screenwriting lab for launching her career in 2012.
Personal Stories and Memories
Many filmmakers shared personal anecdotes about Redford, recalling moments that showcased his passion for nurturing talent. Director Nia DaCosta described seeing Redford ride his motorcycle along the serene wooded paths of the Sundance Mountain Resort, where he would engage with emerging filmmakers about their projects. “He just looked so full of love and pride for us,” DaCosta noted, highlighting the depth of Redford’s commitment to the community he fostered.
Ethan Hawke recounted his first audition for Redford in the 1992 film “A River Runs Through It.” Despite being told he was too young for the role, Hawke expressed gratitude for Redford’s belief in his potential, saying he became one of his greatest mentors. At the gala, Hawke pledged to “keep the fire that he started burning in ourselves” and to inspire future generations.
The festival screenings included a video tribute to Redford, which resonated deeply with attendees, prompting enthusiastic applause. Many volunteers wore buttons that read “Thank you Bob!” To honor his contributions, the festival will feature a screening of his first independent film, the 1969 sports drama “Downhill Racer.”
Filmmaker Ava DuVernay, who began her Sundance journey as a publicist, later found success with her film “Middle of Nowhere” in 2012. She expressed her admiration for Redford, stating, “Mr. Redford didn’t just establish a festival. He modeled a way to be, a way that matters, a way that says artists matter, that imagination is worth protecting.” DuVernay concluded her tribute with a heartfelt, “Thank you, Bob.”
This year’s festival serves as a poignant reminder of Redford’s impact on the film industry and his unwavering support for independent filmmakers, ensuring that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
