Kristen Stewart accepting the Sundance Institute Visionary Award (photo by Michael Hurcomb/Shutterstock for Sundance)
“Sundance is the fucking shit and I love being here.”
That could have been said by anyone that you come across during the 10 days of the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, but in this particular case, it’s Kristen Stewart. This is how she ends her acceptance speech for the Visionary Award at the Opening Night Gala: Celebrating 40 Years Presented by Chase Sapphire®.
The DeJoria Center goes wild with hoots, laughs, cheers. These guttural noises of affirmation could also have come from anyone because, of course Stewart is speaking the truth, but these affirmations are from her peers and fellow honorees. Familiar faces including Christopher Nolan, Jesse Eisenberg, Jodie Foster, Robert Downey Jr., Celine Song, Maite Alberdi, Pat Mitchell, and more, sharing in the love for all things Sundance Institute and Film Festival.
Big hugs, group selfies, and anticipation for what’s to come ahead in the next 10 days are found in all corners of the grand space. Below you can get a sense of that electricity and appreciation for the protection and progress of independent cinema through the night’s speeches.
Sundance Institute Trailblazer Award: Christopher Nolan
Sundance Institute Visionary Award: Kristen Stewart
Sundance Institute Vanguard Award presented by Acura: Maite Alberdi
Sundance Institute Vanguard Award presented by Acura: Celine Song
Sundance Institute Vanguard Award for Philanthropy: Pat Mitchell
To see more of the magic of the 2024 Festival click here.
