The 2025 Sundance Film Festival Gala will honor acclaimed actress Cynthia Erivo and director James Mangold with special awards recognizing their significant contributions to the film industry.
Mangold, the writer, director, and producer behind Searchlight’s A Complete Unknown, will receive the prestigious Trailblazer Award. Erivo, known for her role in Wicked, will be presented with the Visionary Award. Both awards will be given at the festival’s gala fundraiser in January.
The Sundance Institute announced that Mangold’s award is in recognition of his “unwavering dedication and notable contributions to the field of cinema.” Erivo’s honor highlights her “uncompromising work and significant impact on the entertainment industry.”
Amanda Kelso, Acting CEO of the Sundance Institute, praised both honorees for their influence on the arts: “James’ career embodies the heart of filmmaking through bold and authentic storytelling. Cynthia’s electrifying performances and dynamic artistry inspire both audiences and creators alike.”
Mangold expressed his gratitude for the honor, reflecting on his personal journey with the festival. “Sundance has been many things in my life,” he said. “A faraway dream, a laboratory for developing my script for Cop Land, and a place where I proudly mentored young filmmakers. I’m deeply flattered that Sundance has chosen to honor my work.”
Erivo also shared her appreciation for being recognized by the festival. “Receiving the Visionary Award is an honor that fills me with immense gratitude,” she said. “Sundance has always been a sanctuary for bold voices and transformative narratives, and to be part of this incredible community is deeply meaningful.”
The gala will also celebrate Michelle Satter, Founding Senior Director of Artist Programs at Sundance, for her years of dedication to nurturing filmmakers and cultivating independent cinema through the Sundance Labs.
The event is scheduled for January 24, 2025, at the newly opened Grand Hyatt Deer Valley in Utah. The gala will be co-chaired by Ebs Burnough, Board Chair, and Pat Mitchell, long-time Board Trustee.
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