The International Federation of Film Critics (FIPRESCI) and the Sundance Film Festival are pleased to announce the establishment of a FIPRESCI jury beginning with the upcoming edition of the festival, January 21-31, 2027.
This collaboration marks a long-anticipated and highly logical step for both institutions. It reflects a shared commitment to independent cinema, critical dialogue, and the discovery of new voices in filmmaking. It also represents a significant moment in the strategic expansion of FIPRESCI’s jury network in North America, strengthening the exchange between international film critics and their counterparts in the United States, and fostering deeper engagement with one of the world’s most influential platforms for independent cinema.
Founded in 1925, FIPRESCI is a global network of professional film critics and film journalists from more than 80 countries. Through its international juries, publications, and cultural initiatives, the federation promotes film culture, encourages critical discourse, and fosters communication across political, cultural, and geographical boundaries.
Founded in 1978, the Sundance Film Festival is widely regarded as one of the most important international showcases for independent cinema. It has played a defining role in shaping contemporary film culture, launching the careers of numerous filmmakers and serving as a key meeting point for global independent storytelling.
“In this monumental year of new beginnings for the Sundance Film Festival, we’re strengthening our bonds with the global film community through a partnership with FIPRESCI,” said Eugene Hernandez, director of the Festival, “This alliance will offer a vital spotlight for first-time international filmmakers, building on our shared mission to connect storytellers from around the world with their audiences, uplift global independent voices, support film culture’s critical voices, and champion this art form that unites us.”
FIPRESCI President Ahmed Shawky: “The upcoming edition will inaugurate a new chapter in the festival’s history as Sundance Film Festival begins its transition to a new home in Boulder, Colorado. Symbolically, this moment of evolution coincides with the beginning of FIPRESCI’s presence at the festival. Both institutions share a belief in cinema as a space for artistic discovery, cultural exchange, and dialogue, making this partnership a natural development as FIPRESCI enters its second century and Sundance embarks on a new phase of renewal and growth.”.
The FIPRESCI jury will consist of three critics and will evaluate debut films from the World Narrative and World Documentary feature film competitions, presenting two awards for the Best Narrative and Best Documentary.
Further details regarding the jury composition and selection will be announced in due course.
