Kristen Stewart to receive Visionary Award at Sundance Film Festival

Stewart said of the honor, "Sundance’s purity, lack of fussy pretension, and its commitment to supporting independence in an industry that doesn’t always value the radical or the sidelined is what makes it by far the homiest place for me to go see, discuss, and present films. Truly honored to be acknowledged by this beloved institution." Photo: Sundance Institute.

PARK CITY, Utah — Actress Kristen Stewart (perhaps known by many as Bella from the “Twilight” film series) is set to receive the Visionary Award at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival for her contributions to independent cinema, the nonprofit announced Thursday.

The award, which will be bestowed upon the actress during the festival’s annual Opening Night Gala: Celebrating 40 Years, honors Stewart’s “work as an uncompromising artist and contributions to the field of independent film.”

“We are thrilled to honor the immensely talented Kristen Stewart at our Opening Night Gala,” said Joana Vicente, Sundance Institute CEO. “Kristen’s captivating performances across a wide, diverse body of work make her a truly unique talent. With over ten Sundance films under her belt, she has always remained committed to the art of independent cinema. We are excited to welcome her back to the festival and can’t wait to see what she has in store for our 40th year.”

Stewart said of the honor, “Sundance’s purity, lack of fussy pretension, and its commitment to supporting independence in an industry that doesn’t always value the radical or the sidelined is what makes it by far the homiest place for me to go see, discuss, and present films. Truly honored to be acknowledged by this beloved institution.”

Along with her previous nominations, including an Academy Award for her performance as Princess Diana in “Spencer” and a Cesar Award for her role in “Clouds of Sils Maria,” Stewart’s “profound work as an actor has exemplified the bold, risk-taking storytelling that Sundance has championed for many years,” the announcement says.

Throughout her career, which includes 10 films that have screened at the festival, including “The Runaways,” “Adventureland,” and “Lizzie,” Stewart has “always remained committed to the art of independent cinema,” said Vicente.

The Visionary Award is one of several honors that will be handed out during the festival, which runs Jan. 18-28, 2024, in Park City and Salt Lake City, Utah, and will also be available online Jan. 25-28.

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