PRESS AT SUNDANCE

SHORT DOCUMENTARY PROJECT

MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR

At Sundance’s final year in Park City, this documentary short will shine a light on the overlooked critics and journalists whose insightful work, long hours, and tight deadlines bring independent cinema to life for audiences worldwide.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

My name is Thomas Stoneham-Judge, and I’m the founder of ForReel, a website dedicated to giving film enthusiasts and industry professionals a space to share their opinions and in-depth publications on cinema. Every year, my team and I head to the Sundance Film Festival, where we cover the latest trends, showcase emerging talent, and highlight the work of independent filmmakers.

I’m making this documentary short to shine a light on the unsung heroes of the film world: film critics and journalists who provide vital coverage of the Sundance Film Festival and the world class films it programs. This project will share about the behind-the-scenes work of film critics, the hurdles we face in crafting timely, thoughtful, and engaging festival coverage, and the demands of independent content creation - while ultimately highlighting the inspiration and community found in the friends we make along the way.

Though this is my first venture into short filmmaking, I bring years of experience from running ForReel where I’ve honed my skills in content creation, planning, and production. Even though the budget is really small, I’m committed to delivering a professional and high-quality documentary with the resources I have available to me. The opportunity to create a meaningful, impactful film about the role of film critics and journalists is something I deeply care about, and I believe the work we do deserves to be seen.

Your support will be pivotal. By contributing to this fundraiser, you will help bring attention to the creative professionals who help audiences around the world better understand and appreciate cinema. Whether you’re a film lover, a supporter of independent film, or someone who believes in the importance of film journalism, your support will directly contribute to telling a story that is often overlooked, and I thank you for however you choose to engage with this first-time filmmaking effort.

HOW THIS FILM CAN SPEAK TO EVERYONE

This short documentary will not only give film critics the visibility they deserve but also serve as a testament to the power of independent voices in the world of film coverage. It reveals the unseen work that goes into reviewing, analyzing, and contextualizing films at major festivals, offering audiences a rare glimpse into the dedication and expertise behind every critique.

Even if you’ve never attended a film festival, this is a story that can resonate with you. We all have passions that drive us, and through the journeys of these film professionals, the film invites you to reflect on your own pursuits while highlighting the importance of community and collaboration in any field.

In the film world, critics shape the way movies are discovered, discussed, and understood, influencing which stories reach wider audiences and which filmmakers get their moment in the spotlight. By highlighting their passion and impact, the documentary shows how these independent voices enrich the cinematic experience for everyone, making their work essential far beyond the festival stage.