Alexandra Hedison, Kristen Stewart and Jodie Foster at the Opening Night Gala Photo: Sundance Institute | Photo by Stephen Lovekin

PARK CITY, Utah — The Sundance Institute celebrated the kick-off of its 40th annual Sundance Film Festival with a star-studded Opening Night Gala at the DeJoria Center in Kamas.

This prestigious event was held on Jan. 18, marking a significant milestone for the festival, which is renowned for championing independent storytelling.

Robert Downey Jr. at the Opening Night Gala. Sundance Institute | Photo by Stephen Lovekin

The gala recognized several outstanding artists for their contributions to independent film. Christopher Nolan was honored with the inaugural Sundance Institute Trailblazer Award for his unwavering dedication to the field. Robert Downey Jr., presenting the award, humorously noted Nolan’s newfound street recognition and lauded his notable works, including “Memento” and “Tenet.”

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Robert Downey Jr., Christopher Nolan and Emma Thomas at the Opening Night Gala. Sundance Institute | Photo by Michael Hurcomb

Nolan, reflecting on Sundance’s impact, emphasized the unique role of the audience, describing the festival as a period where “filmmaking doesn’t mean a business model, it means an aspiration for filmmakers… It tells you what you’re supposed to be doing, what your real purpose is.”

Jesse Eisenberg and Kristen Stewart at the Opening Night Gala. Sundance Institute | Photo by Stephen Lovekin

Kristen Stewart received the Visionary Award, acknowledging her bold and risk-taking performances. Jesse Eisenberg, who co-starred with Stewart in “Adventureland,” presented the award, praising Stewart’s commitment and authenticity. Stewart expressed her gratitude, highlighting Sundance’s significance in the independent film community.

The Vanguard Awards recognized Celine Song for Fiction and Maite Alberdi for Nonfiction, celebrating their creative storytelling and independence. Producer Christine Vachon and actress Jodie Foster presented the awards, respectively, praising Song’s global storytelling and Alberdi’s unique artistry in documentaries.

Pat Mitchell, a former Sundance Institute Board Chair, received the Vanguard Award for Philanthropy, presented by former President of Ireland Mary Robinson. Robinson commended Mitchell’s dedication to gender equality and women’s empowerment.