Sundance's Free Local Lens Series Returns: Don’t Miss These Films!

Salt Lake City, Utah, USA - Mark your calendars! From July 17 to July 19, the Sundance Institute is rolling out its much-anticipated Local Lens series, showcasing a collection of films right here in the heart of Utah. This year’s event will take place across two prime locations: Broadway Centre Cinemas in Salt Lake City and the Ray Theatre in Park City. It’s a splendid opportunity for locals to experience the magic of cinema without the price tag, as all tickets are free and can be reserved online at sundance.org/local-lens.

The Local Lens program promises a delightful mix of six films over the three-day event, featuring both fiction and documentary selections that made waves during the 2025 Sundance Film Festival. The lineup includes intriguing titles such as „Twinless,“ an offbeat comedy about two men meeting in a twin bereavement support group, and the heartfelt drama „Omaha,“ focusing on a father and his children embarking on an unexpected road trip through familiar Utah landscapes.

No Shortage of Highlights

Each evening packs a punch with screenings at both venues at 7:30 p.m. on opening night. Friday extends to a broader audience with afternoon showings starting at 5:00 p.m., followed by evening screenings at 8:30 p.m. Saturday will offer repeat viewings along with special directors‘ Q&As, a prime chance for film aficionados to delve deeper into the creative process behind the films.

From the whimsical „The Dating Game,“ which explores the intricacies of dating culture in China, to the poignant „The Librarians,“ a documentary shedding light on intellectual freedom, there’s truly something for everyone. The audience will also be treated to “Selena y Los Dinos,” featuring archival footage of the late Selena Quintanilla and her family band, creating a nostalgic atmosphere that many will appreciate.

Meet the Filmmakers

Adding to the excitement, several directors will be present for the Q&A sessions. Cole Webley, director of „Omaha,“ and Kim Snyder, director of „The Librarians,“ will be there to share insights and answer questions about their cinematic journeys. This interaction is a golden opportunity for attendees to engage directly with the creative minds behind the films, blending the viewing experience with artistic dialogue.

And it doesn’t stop there! An artists‘ roundtable is scheduled for July 18 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Spy Hop’s rooftop event space, providing further networking and Q&A opportunities for budding artists and film enthusiasts alike.

A Celebration of Community

As the Sundance Institute celebrates its connection with Utah audiences, this year’s Local Lens series highlights nine feature films—eight are fiction and documentary films demonstrating the creativity and diversity of upcoming filmmakers. As reported by KPCW, the festival continues to forge deep connections with the local community, ensuring that everyone can partake in the joys of film.

So whether you’re a cinephile or just looking for a fun outing, be sure to reserve your tickets for this unique summer event. And keep in mind, the 2026 Sundance Film Festival will soon be taking place from January 22 to February 1, 2026, before shifting to Boulder, Colorado, for 2027—so soak up the local flavor while you can!

Don’t miss out on this vibrant celebration of storytelling through cinema, right in your own backyard!