In a significant achievement for local filmmaking, Park City-based director Jill Orschel’s documentary, "Snowland," has been accepted into the prestigious Slamdance Film Festival, set to take place February 19-25 in Los Angeles. The film centers on the life of Cora Lee Witt, a former child bride who escaped the oppressive environment of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (FLDS). The acceptance into Slamdance marks a pivotal moment for Orschel, who expressed her surprise and excitement, stating, "I never expected this. I was applying to all of these different festivals, and they are tried and true and independent through and through." Slamdance, founded in 1994 in Park City by a group of filmmakers including Peter Baxter and Dan Mirvish, relocated to Los Angeles last year, a move that Orschel had been aware of but chose to explore further through FilmFreeway, a platform that connects filmmakers with various film festivals. "As I was going through Slamdance’s information, I fell in love with its sensitivity about filmmakers," she noted. Orschel particularly admires the festival's mantra, "For filmmakers by filmmakers," which resonates deeply with independent artists seeking recognition in a competitive industry. "Snowland" tells the story of Cora Lee Witt, who joined the FLDS community at the young age of 12 and became the second wife in a polygamous marriage by 14. After enduring years of hardship, including the birth of eight children and navigating the complexities of an abusive environment, Witt ultimately broke free from her past. The documentary is not only a personal narrative but also a poignant exploration of resilience and healing. Orschel remarked that the film is “character-driven,” emphasizing Witt’s vibrant personality and sense of humor, which contrast starkly with her traumatic experiences. One of the film's most compelling moments occurs when Witt revisits her former hometown of Colorado City, Arizona, the headquarters of the FLDS church. This journey represents not only a physical return but also a symbolic act of reconciliation, allowing Witt to address past traumas and foster healing. Orschel explained, "That shows her inner strength to the point where she can go back and make amends with some things, heal some relationships and even start the conversation about how she can be a source of positive impact to this community, which has been brutally traumatized by religious leaders." The film stands out from other documentaries about cults by incorporating elements of humor and nuance, offering a fresh perspective on a topic often steeped in darkness. Orschel asserted that "Snowland" could not have been produced in a corporate environment, as it thrives on grassroots support and authentic storytelling. The film was crafted with the help of a dedicated team, including editor Susan Metzger and creative advisor Kate Amend, both of whom have extensive experience in the film industry, particularly with the Sundance Institute. Reflecting on her journey as a filmmaker, Orschel highlighted the community support that made the project possible. "We had so much community support and pieced things together. This film would never have been made in a studio with corporate money," she said. The collaborative effort extended to include Parkite Bridey Bush, a student of animation at Evergreen State College, who joined the team to add a unique visual element to the project. "Snowland" premiered at the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival in Missoula, Montana, a year prior to its acceptance at Slamdance, and has since garnered a positive reception from local audiences, including a packed screening at Park City Film. Witt attended the screening and participated in a Q&A session, allowing viewers to engage directly with the subject of the film. Orschel expressed her admiration for Witt, describing her as "a delightful woman who is so courageous. She opened up her life, knowing that she could make an impact." As Orschel prepares for her participation in the Slamdance Festival, she remains focused on finding an audience for "Snowland." She stated, "That’s our mountain to climb, and that’s my work right now. We’re doing all of these things like festivals, community screenings, and private screenings to get audiences to see our work and be impacted in a positive way." In addition to raising awareness for the film, Orschel is also working to secure funding for Witt to attend screenings, ensuring that her story continues to resonate with audiences. For more information on "Snowland," interested viewers can visit Jill Orschel’s official website. Additionally, details about the Slamdance Film Festival can be found on its official site, providing opportunities for film enthusiasts to explore and support independent cinema.