Sundance – this word will always be tattooed in my mind.

I must admit, initially I did not know as much about Sundance as other festivals such as Cannes, Toronto etc. However, the more I researched the more I discovered that there was something very special about it. And as January 2010 approached I was slowly starting to realize that my week at Sundance was really going to happen.

Accompanying me was Julie Jira, my girlfriend and protagonist of the short film Restless Wanderer. I flew from Toronto, Canada to Salt Lake City, Utah. Sundance takes place in the Park City resort, a half hour drive (between a breathtaking mountain scenery) from the airport. At the airport Julie and I spotted Diane Keaton and as we entered the city we saw Robert Redford. It had already begun.

The hotel suite that YOBI had chosen for us was magnificent with a large bedroom, living room, balcony overlooking the city and jacuzzi. Almost a shame that we would not spend so much time indoors and fully enjoy it. We were also provided with full-access passes that allowed us to attend every film and event in the festival. It also included tickets to various VIP parties. With such a precious pass in my hands I tried to take full advantage of it. I was able to watch 15 films, and we attended many talks and presentations organized by Robert Redford, Joseph Gordon-Levitt and others form the industry.

The festival was everything I had hoped it would be. It had been about 8 months since I won the Yobi Film contest and I was slowly starting to forget what it felt like to be surrounded by an environment where everybody speaks your own language. During Sundance, Park City turns into a very special community where everything around you breathes films and art. There are many theatres playing non-stop films, thousands of visitors from all around the world and directors and actors share bus rides with you. Watching films felt more personal because all the filmmaker were there to introduce their work and talk to the audience. Their ideas, stories, struggles an successes became real. The barrier of separation between audience, filmmakers, countries and cultures was broken. “Sharing and collaborating” is one of the most important things that I learned from my experience there. This is why I fully support what YOBI is doing by giving the possibility to people from all around the world to network and share their work and talent with each other.

Just like the other 3 winners, I returned from my trip inspired and energized. I am sure I will be back at Sundance, and maybe with my own work one day. I want to thank you YOBI for giving me such an opportunity and such joy. And thank you to all who voted for my film.

I wish you all the best into pursuing your dreams and keep making work you believe in.

Paul