What’s New at Sundance

I’d love to hear from others Sundance trekkers found new, innovative, and possibly trendy in the documentary world.  A few things caught my eye.  First, I learned about the emerging field of online virtual cinematography called “machinima”, showcased brilliantly in Jason Spingarn-Koff’s  delightful “Life 2.0” about  Second Life.  I saw my first “live” documentary, in which director Sam Green narrated in person his “Utopia In Four Movements”.  The music was live too.  And the observational footage in the Afghan war zone was remarkable and perhaps unparalleled, giving “Restrepo” the Grand Jury Prize. 

Looking at the list of award-winning documentaries, as well as the Sundance program guide, shows social issue docs and character-driven docs still going strong. No surprise there, but I also noticed, interestingly, what appears to be a record number of biographical documentaries.

I’d love to hear what other people found notable, newsworthy and innovative!