Actress Marlee Matlin, star of CODA, attending the virtual Sundance Institute Vanguard Awards Celebration, October 20, 2021
Last night I had the privilege of virtually attending the Sundance Institute Vanguard Award Celebration. This event honors individuals who "define the innovation, originality, and independent spirit upon which the Institute was founded in 1981." This year, awards went to Siân Heder, director of CODA; and Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson, director of Summer of Soul (...Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised), a documentary. Both films are now available through streaming (CODA is on Apple TV+, and Summer of Soul is on Hulu), and are highly recommended. The event featured fascinating interviews with notable actors and individuals and the filmmakers who talked about their creative processes, challenges encountered during the making of their films; and future projects. Very enjoyable.
I encourage you to support the Sundance Institute to champion independent filmmaking. Since 1981, this organization has advanced this most original of art forms, and memberships can be obtained for a reasonable price. Tax-deductible donations are also gladly accepted. Visit sundance.org for more information on this remarkable organization.
On another topic, I would be remiss if I didn't mention that the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles is now open and looks to be just wonderful. There was a program recently on ABC which spotlighted the museum, and I intend to visit as soon as humanly possible. Visit academymuseum.org for more information.
I encourage you to support the Sundance Institute to champion independent filmmaking. Since 1981, this organization has advanced this most original of art forms, and memberships can be obtained for a reasonable price. Tax-deductible donations are also gladly accepted. Visit sundance.org for more information on this remarkable organization.
On another topic, I would be remiss if I didn't mention that the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles is now open and looks to be just wonderful. There was a program recently on ABC which spotlighted the museum, and I intend to visit as soon as humanly possible. Visit academymuseum.org for more information.