Sundance'S Shining Star: Robert Redford'S Lasting Legacy

Remembering a Legend

Darren Aronofsky vividly recalls witnessing Robert Redford's magnetic charm at Sundance. When Aronofsky's film, Requiem for a Dream, was showcased at the workshop, he was struck by Redford's ability to captivate a room. "He had someone guide him from person to person, introducing each. When you had his attention, even for a minute, it was profound," Aronofsky shares. "He never glanced over your shoulder. His focus was unwavering, even though he was hosting the entire event."

A wave of nostalgia sweeps over Sundance this month, marking the first festival without Redford, who passed away at 89 on September 16, 2025. As the festival bids farewell to its beloved founder and relocates to Boulder, Colorado, his absence looms over what has been America's premier indie film gathering. Memories of Redford's presence in Park City are cherished by filmmakers whose lives were transformed by their Sundance premieres.

“Seeing Robert Redford walking down Main Street was like witnessing royalty,” reminisces Kenneth Lonergan. "It was reminiscent of Bill Clinton in Greenwich Village – a magnetic figure with crowds following."

Personal Connections and Fond Memories

Sundance icon Richard Linklater had a personal connection to Redford, thanks to his uncles, Tom and Jim, who shared an apartment complex with Redford in the 1950s in L.A. "My family had Redford stories long before Sundance," says Linklater. "They'd talk about their past adventures – from playing football near train stations to attending jazz shows. When I finally met Redford at Sundance and mentioned my uncles, he instantly remembered them."

Craig Brewer, whose Hustle & Flow premiered at Sundance, cherishes his brief yet impactful encounter with Redford. During a filmmaker breakfast, Redford introduced Brewer to Thomas Vinterberg, a pivotal moment in Brewer's career. "Redford's energy and encouragement were unique," Brewer recalls.

A Lasting Influence on Film

Lauren Greenfield, documentarian of Thin and The Queen of Versailles, praises Redford's dedication to supporting filmmakers. "Redford was an iconic figure," she says. "Even if you didn't spend hours with him, he made filmmakers feel valued at Sundance."

John Sayles, an early Sundance auteur, also remembers Redford's generosity. Though they met only once, Redford's endorsement of Sayles' screenplay was invaluable. "Redford had a profound love for the art of storytelling," confirms Linklater. "He expanded the film industry, spotlighting independent filmmaking."

Ed Burns shares perhaps the most serendipitous Redford story. A chance hotel encounter allowed Burns to hand a VHS rough cut of his debut, The Brothers McMullen, to Redford, ultimately securing his film a spot at Sundance. "Introducing my mom to Redford on my 27th birthday was the best gift," Burns recalls.

For more on the Sundance Film Festival's storied history, visit The Hollywood Reporter's Sundance hub.