On January 22nd, 2023, amid the exhilarating backdrop of the Sundance Film Festival, the Utah Film Center showcased its commitment to the cinematic arts with a memorable gathering. The Film Center’s founder, Geralyn Dreyfous, alongside Executive Director, Mariah Mellus, welcomed guests to a historic venue off of main street simply known as The Church. The brunch was a golden opportunity for attendees to immerse themselves in the world of filmmaking. They networked with acclaimed filmmakers and top-tier industry professionals, celebrating the cinematic arts with those who’ve perfected it. We were honored to have with us Erika Cohn (In Football We Trust), Mary Poppers (Plan C), Jenny Mackenzie (Right to Read), the talented team behind (20 Days in Mariupol), and Skye Emerson (Little Genes).
The ambiance was set for attendees to exchange insights and ideas with film veterans. A highlight of our brunch was the celebration of Sundance’s opening weekend, with a special nod to our fiscally-sponsored film, Plan C, which premiered at the 2023 festival. The Film Center’s Fiscal Sponsorship program streamlines the funding journey for approved projects, enabling them to utilize the Utah Film Center’s 501(c)(3) status when seeking financial support. This initiative helps filmmakers craft stories that resonate with communities and introduce fresh narratives. Plan C’s presence is a testament to the determination and vision of its filmmakers, and we are honored to have played a small part in sharing it with Sundance’s international audiences.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Sam Vetas of Ameriprise Financial, Caley’s Catering, Sugarhouse Coffee, Hans Kombucha, Sugar House Distillery, and UTOG Brewing for sponsoring this event and providing guests with an array of delicious brunch options. We are also grateful to our donors, our fiscally-sponsored filmmakers, our Utah-based filmmaking community, and our industry partners for making it such a memorable event. We eagerly await Sundance 2024 and the opportunity to once again celebrate the magic of cinema with our community.
