Great filmmaking starts with great writing. At the heart of every incredible movie is the script that lays the groundwork for its vision. Through our Meet the Artist series on YouTube, we hear directly from the writer-directors whose ideas, dialogue, and imagination set the stage for projects premiering and screening at the Sundance Film Festival. 

The moments captured in these short, insightful videos show filmmakers opening up about their inspirations, writing processes, and the stories that compelled them to put pen to paper. As we gear up for the 2026 Festival lineup, we’re highlighting Fest award winners, including Grand Jury Prize: Dramatic winners, and storytellers whose unforgettable writing earned them the Festival’s Waldo Salt Screenwriting Award. 

Revisit MTA clips from award-winning storytellers like Jesse Eisenberg, Lake Bell, and Craig Johnson as they share the passion and perspective that helped shape their films.