Park City Will Come Alive For Sundance Film Festival

The eyes of the film world are once again turning to Park City, Utah. The Sundance film festival is around the corner and this year’s slates of film will once again not disappoint. Started in 1978, the festival has been a proving ground for art house cinema and it sets the stage for film culture throughout the year.

Films

In 2009, Bobcat Goldthwait screened his film “World’s Greatest Dad” at Sundance.  Darkly subversive and masterful in its black humor the movie went on to win high acclaim.  This year Goldthwait will be returning with his new film “Call Me Lucky.” This is a departure from his previous movies, as this will be competing in the documentary category.  It tells the story off humorist and activist Barry Crimmins.  Crimmins is a larger than life character and the documentary should prove captivating.

Another to look out for, and possibly a highlight of the festival, is the latest from “The Spectacular Now’s” James Ponsoldt.  After becoming a breakout star in 2013 Ponsoldt has returned with a new drama depicting a five-day long interview between Rolling Stone reporter David Lipsky and critically acclaimed novelist David Foster Wallace.  Wallace, known for such works as Infinite Jest and Consider the Lobster, is played by Jason Segel opposite Jesse Eisenberg.

In the “Park City at Midnight” category comes the latest film from the creator of recent cult favorite “Room 237” the documentary hyper analyzing Stanley Kubrick’s “The Shining.”  The new film entitled “The Nightmare” is a documentary horror film exploring the waking experience of sleep paralysis and the sights and sounds that people experience during that transition period.

For a social documentary, take a look at the new film “Going Clear.”  The film delves into the world of Scientology by interviewing eight former members of the church. Stylistically, expect a lot of talking heads, but the content should prove fascinating to anyone interested in the modern day religion or anyone looking to the check the accuracy of Paul Thomas Anderson’s “The Master.”

For those looking to see a familiar face, check out the new movie, “I Smile Back.” Exploring the troubling world behind the façade of happy sub urbanism, comedic actor Sarah Silverman breaks out her dramatic chops in one of her most serious roles to date. She plays the matriarch of a family trying to hold herself together as the world seemingly crumbles around her.

For something completely different comes a film called “The Stanford Prison Experiment”. Those who have studied psychology may recall that it is a famous experiment conducted in 1971 in which certain students were told that they would act prisoners while others were told they would act as guards. They were then given two weeks to simulate the experience. What the students did would become a landmark in psychoanalysis.  It is the third directorial project from Kyle Patrick Alvarez.

Eat

For a fancy night on the town, head to Prime Steak House. Located along historic main street this steakhouse and piano bar is at the height of class. Start with their perfectly prepared crab cakes and then move on to the succulent filet mignon. The food is a little pricey but it is worth it for the excellent service and ambiance.

For something a little lighter, head over to Reef’s Restaurant for Mediterranean and seafood. Reef’s prides themselves on using hormone and antibiotic free sustainable food.  The menu is rotated seasonally to ensure the use of fresh ingredients. A family owned establishment, this is definitely one of the highlights of Park City.

For a restaurant sure to please any palate, head over to Purple Sage. The restaurant features the bold hearty flavors of the American West. Don’t be put off by the meatloaf on the menu (which is superb), this is terrific dining. In fact, Frommers has described the restaurant as “refined casual western.” Make sure to try the butternut squash ravioli for a real treat.

Drink

Grab a drink accompanied by a terrific mountain view at St. Regis Bar. The classy establishment offers a menu of custom specialty cocktails made with the finest alcohol. Above the bar is a commissioned mural to honor the theme of St. Regis. Do not forget to take advantage of the valet parking.

For those looking for something more rustic head over to High West Distillery and Saloon. Their whiskey, widely distributed throughout the United States, is not to be missed. In fast, the whiskey dates back all the way to the 1870s when the saloon was the main watering hole in town. Today, the alcohol can be paired with delicious appetizers and occasional live music.

Stay

For a true mountain experience, check out Stein Eriksen Lodge. This premiere hotel offers gorgeous vistas with premium service.  Amenities range from daily-cleaned bathrobes and slippers to outdoor hot tubs overlooking the mountains. For those who may want to party hard, the hotel offers free transportation to and from the town center.

For those looking for something a bit cozier, head to the Old Town Guesthouse bed and breakfast. You’ll be put up in a renovated ski lodge and hosted by Deb Lovci. Deb is an active adventurer and can offer many great tips about local things to do and see. Enjoying your morning coffee on the deck with some cool mountain air is a great way to start the day.

The Sundance Film Festival is from Jan. 22 to Feb. 1. Tickets can be purchased here.