Sundance buyers recognize realities Audiences, filmmakers adjust expectations

BY SHARON SWART, VARIETY

After a quarter century of vividly showcasing indie cinema, the Sundance Film Festival has bred some great expectations.

Audiences expect to discover edgy new talent. Filmmakers expect to get a shot at distribution and, perhaps, a Hollywood career.

Both constituencies continue to be rewarded. But, at the same time, expectations must be readjusted in the harsh light of today's economic realities, say festival veterans and distribution execs. >>MORE