We have assembled a program that includes movies that deserve to be and to find their audiences.
Films are ready for their audiences, added Hernandez.
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We have a slate that is ready to meet its audience, he said.
Main Street in Park City, Utah at the Sundance Film FestivalMichael Buckner/Deadline via Getty Images
I think Sundance is a vital part of the entertainment ecosystem.
I think its undervalued, said Blumhouse CEOJason Blum, kicking off the opening presser.
With Sundance founder Robert Redford an emeritus, the festival is arguably in need of an industry face.
Hes on the fest board and said hes been coming here since 1992.
The release schedule is decimated.
The theatrical market should be healthy.
I hope Sundance movies wind up in theaters in the next six months, said Blum.
It holds a very important place in my heart, said Blum.
My business wouldnt be what it is without Sundance, he added.
Get Outwas an opposite story, the secret screening a wick that lit Jordan Peeles filmmaking career.
The social horror movie morphed into a $255 million-plus grossing hit.
All of us didnt know what we had, we knew it was special.
First ever screening with a public audience was here at the Library.
Obamas daughter was in the audience.
Thats what started the whole thing and gave us all, including Universal, confidence, Blum recalled.
They were selected from a record number of 17,435 submissions from 153 countries/territories.
