The University of Arizona Film & Television students who participated in TFTV’s fourth annual trip to the Sundance Film Festival returned energized, inspired, and more connected than ever. Attending the festival’s final year in Park City from January 23–30, eleven students immersed themselves in screenings, Q&As, networking events, and volunteer opportunities, gaining firsthand insight into the world of independent film.
“This trip left me hopeful for the future of storytelling,” said Natalie Elsner, whose highlight was attending a session with Hamnet director Chloe Zhao. Enrique Camou Villa added, “I watched films I would have never imagined encountering, which deepened my love for the art form and helped me better understand the personal stories I want to tell. The atmosphere around Sundance is unlike any other I’ve experienced, and I will be there again.”
As the students prepare to graduate and take their next steps into the industry, the festival instilled confidence. Bennett Curran reflected, “My favorite part about Sundance was the constant opportunity to connect with other industry professionals. Whether it was waiting in line for a screening, attending Adobe Ignite events, or working a volunteer shift, I got to meet and connect with several like-minded individuals. The films I watched have inspired me to keep creating, and the networking opportunities have prepared me for my post-graduation career.”
Students also gained rare insight into the business side of Sundance through a connection facilitated by Prof. Jacob Bricca with director Amir Bar-Lev, whose documentary The Last First: Winter K2 premiered at the festival. The TFTV cohort attended a sold-out screening at the Eccles Theatre, before Bar-Lev joined students for an exclusive in-depth conversation.
The discussion took place while the film was actively in acquisition talks, giving students real-time perspective on distribution at Sundance. The film ultimately secured a global deal with Apple Original Films, one of only a small number of films acquired at the festival this year.
The trip’s co-producers, TFTV Director of Industry and Outreach Kerryn Negus and Film & Television Prof. Jacob Bricca, ACE, ensured students met top industry figures, strengthening the University’s visibility and providing invaluable networking experiences. “Few settings are as effective as Sundance for advancing industry relationships and creating new avenues of engagement for our students,” Negus noted. Prof. Bricca added, “Sundance gives our students face-to-face access to the people shaping the industry.”
As the final Sundance in Park City closed, students returned with renewed passion, inspired by a festival that provided a masterclass in creativity, collaboration and inspiration.
Read more in the Sundance 2026 Wrap Report