MEL Students Premier Themselves at Sundance Film Festival 2026

As a champion and curator of independent stories, the nonprofit Sundance Institute provides and preserves the space for artists in film and episodic storytelling to create and thrive. Robert Redford founded the Institute in 1981 to foster independence, risk-taking, and new voices in American film. Each January, the Sundance Film Festival introduces a global audience to groundbreaking work and emerging talent in independent film. In addition to the Festival, the Sundance Institute hosts many public programs in the U.S. and around the world to connect artists with audiences to present original voices, inspire new ideas, and create community around independent storytelling.    Sundance Film Festival website.

This Friday, January 30 and Saturday, January 31, UNW students, staff and faculty are invited to view a few of the Sundance films – for free – before they even hit the theatres. Just show up at the MEL room #116 for a great time watching movies – snacks and beverages will be provided. See the schedule below:

Friday 5-11 p.m.

• The Musical (Starring Rob Lowe)
• Union County (Starring Will Poulter)
• Run Amok

Saturday 12-11 p.m.

• Short Films- Animated (selected)
• Shorts Films-Drama
• Short Films- Documentary
• Birds of War (Documentary)
• Carousel (Starring Chris Pine)
• Grand Jury- US Drama (TBA)
• Audience Choice- US Drama (TBA)
• Audience Choice- World Drama (TBA)