PARK CITY, Utah — The Sundance Institute has announced its 2026 Sundance Film Festival honorees, including the recipients of the prestigious Trailblazer Award and Vanguard Awards. Celebrating Sundance Institute: A Tribute to Founder Robert Redford will take place on January 23, 2026, at the Grand Hyatt Deer Valley in Utah. During this annual fundraising event, Academy Award-winning filmmaker Chloé Zhao will receive the Trailblazer Award Presented by Google. Additionally, Nia DaCosta will be honored with the Vanguard Award for Fiction, while Geeta Gandbhir will receive the Vanguard Award for Nonfiction, both presented by Acura. Notable guests participating in the event include Amy Redford, Ava DuVernay, and Ethan Hawke. The Sundance Institute plays a vital role in the film industry by providing year-round support for artists. This includes various initiatives such as labs, intensives, grants, fellowships, and programming that contribute to the creative landscape of independent film. Chloé Zhao, recognized for her significant contributions to the field, made her mark with well-received films such as 'Nomadland,' which won three Oscars. Zhao's work often highlights the rich narratives of underrepresented communities. She expressed gratitude for receiving the Trailblazer Award, noting that Sundance was instrumental in launching her career as a filmmaker. In contrast, the Vanguard Awards acknowledge emerging talent who demonstrate exceptional storytelling in both fiction and nonfiction. Nia DaCosta, director of the 2025 film 'Hedda', has been recognized for her unique approach to creativity, influenced significantly by her experiences at the Sundance Institute. DaCosta has previously directed notable works, including 'Candyman' and 'The Marvels', and her upcoming film will be released soon. Geeta Gandbhir is an Emmy and Independent Spirit Award-winning filmmaker whose recent documentary 'The Perfect Neighbor' debuted at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival and won accolades for its compelling storytelling. Gandbhir expressed her appreciation for Sundance's continuous efforts to uplift underrepresented voices and the community that fosters innovative filmmaking. The 2026 Sundance Film Festival, which celebrates original storytelling and artistic excellence, will take place in Utah from January 22 to February 1, 2026, with additional online screenings anticipated later in the month. For ticketing and more information about the festival, visitors can check the Sundance Film Festival website.