A Complete Unknown director James Mangold and award-winning actress Cynthia Erivo, currently starring as Elphaba in Universal Pictures’ Wicked, will be honored at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival’s gala fundraiser, Celebrating Sundance Institute. This year’s gala will take place on January 24, 2025.
Writer, director, and producer James Mangold will be honored with the Trailblazer Award in recognition of his unwavering dedication and notable contributions to the field of cinema. Mangold’s relationship with Sundance began in 1994, when he first participated in the Institute’s year-round artist programs, designed to support emerging filmmakers. It was then that he developed the screenplay for his 1997 film Cop Land at the Sundance Screenwriters and Directors Labs. His directorial debut, Heavy, received the Special Jury Prize for Directing at the 1995 Sundance Film Festival. Over the years, Mangold has played a role in shaping the landscape of film, leaving an indelible impact on both the industry and popular culture. From Girl, Interrupted and Walk the Line to 3:10 to Yuma, Ford v. Ferrari and A Complete Unknown, this award celebrates Mangold’s lasting legacy of powerful storytelling.
“Sundance has been many things in my life; a faraway dream on a mountain, a laboratory at which I developed the script for Cop Land, a Festival at which I debuted Heavy, my first feature, and later, a place I have proudly mentored talented young filmmakers. I am floored and flattered that Sundance thought my body of work was worthy of this honor,” said James Mangold.
Cynthia Erivo, currently seen as Elphaba in the film adaptation of Wicked, will be honored with the Visionary Award for her uncompromising work and notable contributions to the entertainment industry. From her breakout portrayal of Celie Harris in Broadway’s The Color Purple, for which she won a Grammy, Tony, and Daytime Emmy Award, to her commanding performance in Kasi Lemmons’ Harriet, for which she was nominated for two Academy Awards — Best Actress and Best Original Song — Erivo consistently elevates every role with her profound skill, depth, and artistry. During the 2021 Sundance Film Festival, Erivo served as a jury member and returned to the Festival in 2023, as both an actor and producer, for her performance in Drift.
“Receiving the Visionary Award is an honor that fills me with immense gratitude,” Erivo says. “Sundance has always been a sanctuary for bold voices and transformative narratives, and to be a part of and recognized by this incredible community is deeply meaningful. Storytelling is the foundation of my work, and it’s a privilege to celebrate this art form alongside so many extraordinary creators. This recognition inspires me to continue championing bold, diverse stories that connect, challenge, and uplift us all.”
“James Mangold and Cynthia Erivo embody the very essence of creativity and impact within the arts,” said Amanda Kelso, Acting CEO of Sundance Institute. “James’ career reflects the heart of filmmaking: bold and authentic storytelling. His connection to the Sundance Institute, from his early days as a participant in our artist programs to his groundbreaking work as a director, has left a lasting impact on the film community. Cynthia’s journey, marked by electrifying performances in every project she touches, has made her a dynamic artist who inspires and empowers audiences and creators alike. We are thrilled to honor James with the Trailblazer Award and Cynthia with the Visionary Award, celebrating their extraordinary achievements and the powerful stories they continue to bring to life.”
As previously announced, the evening will also honor Michelle Satter, Founding Senior Director of Artist Programs at Sundance Institute. The annual Vanguard Awards Presented by Acura will be awarded during the evening to Sean Wang, writer and director of Dìdi (弟弟), and Julian Brave NoiseCat and Emily Kassie, co-directors of Sugarcane, who premiered their films at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival.