SUNDANCE RETURNS WITH A STELLAR 2023 LINEUP
The Sundance Film Festival is known for showcasing groundbreaking films that challenge norms and captivate audiences worldwide. We consider ourselves fortunate that we’ve had the opportunity to attend and cover for several years.
As expected, the 2023 lineup is stellar. Here are 10 anticipated movies, in particular, that are set to make a big splash at this year’s festival:
“A Little Prayer“
U.S.A | World Premiere
Director, Screenwriter: Angus MacLachlan
Producers: Angus MacLachlan, Lauren Vilchik, Max A. Butler
Cast: David Strathairn, Jane Levy, Celia Weston, Will Pullen, Anna Camp, Dascha Polanco
Synopsis: Witness the intricate dynamics of familial relationships as a man becomes suspicious of his son’s alleged affair. What unfolds is a delicate dance through a relationship minefield as he endeavors to protect his daughter-in-law while grappling with understanding his son’s choices.
“Bad Behaviour“
New Zealand | World Premiere
Director and Screenwriter: Alice Englert
Producers: Molly Hallam, Desray Armstrong
Cast: Jennifer Connelly, Ben Whishaw, Alice Englert, Ana Scotney, Dasha Nekrasova, Marlon Williams
Synopsis: Follow Lucy, a former child actor, on her quest for enlightenment at a retreat led by spiritual leader Elon. Amidst her pursuit of inner peace, she navigates the intricate and turbulent relationship with her stunt-performer daughter, Dylan, unveiling a tale of conflict and closeness in the midst of spiritual exploration.
“Flora and Son“
U.S.A, Ireland | World Premiere
Director, Screenwriter: John Carney
Producers: John Carney, Anthony Bregman, Peter Cron, Rebecca O’Flanagan, Robert Walpole
Cast: Eve Hewson, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Orén Kinlan, Jack Reynor.
Synopsis: Join single mother Flora as she grapples with the complexities of raising her rebellious teenage son, Max. Her attempts to steer him away from trouble lead to encounters with a washed-up LA musician and an old acoustic guitar, offering a chance at harmony for this Dublin family teetering on the edge.
“In My Mother’s Skin“
Philippines | World Premiere
Director and Screenwriter: Kenneth Dagatan
Producers: Bradley Liew, Bianca Balbuena, Huang Junxiang, Stefano Centini
Cast: Beauty Gonzalez, Felicity Kyle Napuli, Jasmine Curtis-Smith, James Mavie Estrella, Angeli Bayani
Synopsis: Follow the compelling tale of a young girl stranded in the Philippines during World War II. Her commitment to caring for her dying mother becomes entangled with an unexpected challenge when she places her trust in a captivating yet carnivorous fairy. This film weaves together duty, trust, and supernatural intrigue in a wartime setting.
“Onyx the Fortuitous and the Talisman of Souls“
U.S.A. | World Premiere
Director, Screenwriter, and Producer: Andrew Bowser
Producers: Clark Baker, Michael Mobley, Olivia Taylor Dudley
Cast: Andrew Bowser, Olivia Taylor Dudley, Jeffrey Combs, Ralph Ineson, Rivkah Reyes, T.C. Carson
Synopsis: Join fledgling occultist Onyx and a group of devotees as they partake in a unique ritual at the mansion of their idol, Bartok the Great. As they immerse themselves in the occult, unexpected events unfold, promising a captivating and mystical journey.
“Past Lives“
U.S.A.| World Premiere
Director and Screenwriter: Celine Song
Producers: Christine Vachon, Pamela Koffler, David Hinojosa
Cast: Greta Lee, Teo Yoo, John Magaro.
Synopsis: Childhood friends Nora and Hae Sung find their lives diverging when Nora’s family moves away from South Korea. Decades later, fate brings them back together for a pivotal week, forcing them to confront their shared past, navigate love, and grapple with life-altering choices.
“Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie“
U.S.A | World Premiere
Director and Producer: Davis Guggenheim
Producers: Jonathan King, Annetta Marion, Will Cohen
Synopsis: Follow the journey of a young Canadian, catapulted from an army base to global pop culture fame in the 1980s, only to confront a life-altering diagnosis. This poignant tale follows the actor, known for his unwavering optimism, as he faces the reality of an incurable disease.
“Talk To Me“
Australia | International Premiere
Directors: Danny Philippou, Michael Philippou
Screenwriters: Danny Philippou, Michael Philippou, Bill Hinzman
Producers: Samantha Jennings, Kristina Ceyton
Cast: Sophie Wilde, Miranda Otto, Alexandra Jensen, Joe Bird, Zoe Terakes, Otis Dhanji
Synopsis: When a group of friends stumbles upon the ability to summon spirits using an embalmed hand, their pursuit of thrill turns into a high-stakes game. However, their fascination takes a terrifying turn when one of them goes too far, unleashing supernatural forces beyond their control.
“The Deepest Breath“
U.K, Ireland | World Premiere
Director and Screenwriter: Laura McGann
Producers: John Battsek, Sarah Thomson, Jamie D’Alton, Anne McLoughlin
Synopsis: Embark on an exhilarating journey into the world of free diving as a diver strives to break a world record with the assistance of a seasoned safety diver. This film chronicles their paths, culminating in the pursuit of glory in the unfathomable depths of the ocean, exploring the profound risks and rewards of chasing a dream.
“You Hurt My Feelings“
U.S.A | World Premiere
Director and Screenwriter: Nicole Holofcener
Producers: Stefanie Azpiazu, Anthony Bregman
Cast: Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Tobias Menzies, Michaela Watkins, Owen Teague, Arian Moayed.
Synopsis: A novelist’s life is turned upside down when she accidentally overhears her husband’s unfiltered reaction to her latest book. The revelation becomes a catalyst, causing seismic shifts in their longstanding marriage. This emotional journey becomes a tale of self-discovery and reevaluation for both parties involved.
These ten films promise to deliver diverse narratives, compelling performances, and unique storytelling, making them must-watch experiences at Sundance 2023 and we’re certainly hoping we get to see them all.
Be sure to check back here for our festival coverage.
For more details on Sundance 2023, including ticket info, click here.
