The film students from Grand Canyon University (GCU) had the opportunity to attend the prestigious Sundance Film Festival in February 2024, following their success at the university’s annual Pitch Fest and fall Film Festival. This opportunity allowed select winners to experience one of the most influential platforms for independent film, held in Park City, Utah.
Among the attendees, sophomore Tristyn Rivera expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “The experience was very encouraging. You could see other young filmmakers that started where we are at, and now some of them are celebrities, which is inspiring.” Rivera’s journey to Sundance began unexpectedly when a family member urged her to submit her documentary on her family’s bison business in Kauai, Hawaii. Her participation led to her winning the documentary category at the GCU Film Festival, which ultimately secured her entry to Sundance.
Rivera, along with fellow winners Hallie Williams and Julissa Becerril, swapped the warmth of the Phoenix desert for the snowy backdrop of Park City. Their itinerary included screenings, workshops, and invaluable networking opportunities with industry professionals. They also participated in the Windrider Summit, a Christian film organization co-founded by GCU’s College of Arts and Media dean, Dr. Craig Detweiler.
The Windrider Summit aimed to inspire students in navigating the film industry while maintaining their faith-based values. Senior Hallie Williams shared her insights, stating, “I grew up with the perspective that to follow God’s path for your life, you had to make Christian content. But one of the guest speakers, Christine Swanson, emphasized how to be a Christian in a very dark industry. Our job is to shine where we are put and to be the difference, no matter what.”
The festival featured over 20 screenings across 11 categories, allowing students to explore a variety of genres, including drama, romance, and action. Notable attendees included director Olivia Wilde, alongside actors Channing Tatum and Gemma Chan. The presence of established figures in the industry served to inspire GCU students, who were encouraged to pursue their passions despite the challenges.
Julissa Becerril remarked on the importance of perseverance in the film industry, stating, “Doing the job that you love and are passionate about doesn’t come easy, but in the end, it is worth it.” This sentiment resonated with all attendees as they absorbed the experiences and insights shared during the festival.
This year’s Sundance marked the final event to be held in Utah before relocating to Boulder, Colorado, in 2027. As the students reflected on their experiences, they recognized the significance of being in an environment filled with creativity and potential. Rivera’s focus remains on documentaries, while Williams is exploring thrillers, and Becerril is drawn to faith-based narratives.
Becerril summed up the experience, stating, “To have this opportunity is encouraging to pursue my career. Sundance has taught me that this career is not impossible, even if it doesn’t happen right away.” The overarching message from the festival emphasized the importance of keeping an open mind and seizing opportunities, regardless of how far they may deviate from initial plans.
GCU staff writer Izabela Fogarasi can be reached at [email protected]
