A lot of talk centered around how this year’s Sundance Film Festival would be the most unique experience ever. It’s hybrid virtual and in person mix was daring and innovative. What was often glossed over was the fact that this year’s edition would also be a truncated version running only a week as opposed to eleven days with just over half the number of movies.
It turns out Sundance’s decision to shorten the event and open it up to a large audience worked. This year’s fest was attended by more people than any previous one. The breakdown is fascinating with early numbers showing satellite theaters around the country had 20,000 attendees. Meanwhile the virtual platform boasted over 500,00 views.
“It’s been rewarding to see the way adventurous audiences everywhere engaged with our program and platform, and of course we are delighted to have met and even exceeded our goal of expanding the reach and community for independent film in this challenging year,” said Sundance Institute CEO Keri Putnam.

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