A first-time Sundancer’s guide to… Sundance.

A bunch of my good film blogging friends are going to Sundance this year for the very first time, and although I don’t mind answering their questions I figured if they are asking them… everyone else probably is too. So being the kind hearted movie blogger that I am, I have put together a list of questions and answers for you first timers out there.

Now, I am no expert. Unlike Neil from FilmSchoolRejects.com, Alex from FirstShowing.net and Pete from SlashFilm.com, last year was my very first year and I was scared to death of hitting the nasty bitter cold and unfamiliar territory all by myself. Luckily I had all of the guys mentioned before to hold my hand (I am only partially joking). Here are some of the questions/worries/scary parts for me last year.

1. How will I get from the SLC Airport to my destination in Park City?
   This was one of my biggest fears last year. Luckily the people at Sundance have already taken this into consideration and pointed me into the direction of Express Shuttle. I am pretty sure that I got to and from the airport for $35 but the price could have gone up this year. Check out their website to schedule or call the numbers below.
   (800) 397-0773
   (801) 596-1600 (in Salt Lake City)
   (435) 658-3444 (in Park City)

   http://www.xpressshuttleutah.com/

2. How am I going to get around without a car?
   Another big worry of mine…put your minds at ease. The Sundance film festival is above and beyond the easiest film festival to get around at due to all of the shuttle buses that run almost around the clock. Here is a map.
3. Am I going to freeze to death?
   This is a tough one. Apparently last year was unseasonably warm in Park City so I didn’t get a full taste of just how cold it can be. I will tell you that for the majority of the time there I work a lightweight jacket and was fine. I also sported gloves and a scarf most of the time as well. See here:

   

   I would suggest bringing both your heaviest, warmest coat… and something that you wont sweat to death in, just in case.

4. Where will I find the time to do work?
   That all depends on how much work you want to get done. Last year I wrote about 30 reviews, did 4 interviews, did a daily recap and a couple of video blogs. There are a few badass spots that offer WiFi around Park City. I did the majority of my work sitting in the lobby of the Yarrow Hotel which is where a bunch of press screenings are held. Right across the street from there is a really great restaurant called Squatters that offers free WiFi, delicious food and some very cute waitresses great service. The Sundance HQ also offers free WiFi. Here is a photo of Neil and Pete doing some blogging inside Squatters:

   

   You will probably find yourself writing while you are in line, in your seat before a film starts or the floor… seriously:

   

   So, if you have a free minute, you are going to want to start typing up the 5 reviews of films you saw in the last 24 hours… before they are out of your mind completely.

5. What if my laptop dies, gets broken, use it to block a punch from an angry publicist?
   Well first, carry your power adapter with you everywhere. You can find somewhere to plug it in and charge even if its just for a few minutes. If it gets broken somehow well then sir I wish you luck… OK, only partially. At the Sundance HQ they have a bunch of computers setup
6. Is my iPhone going to work this year?
   HA. The great Sundance iPhone debacle. If it’s anything like last year, and I assume it will probably be even worse…you are going to be very frustrated with your lack of service. I suggest turning your 3G off and just dealing with the slower EDGE service. Lucky for me, I left the iPhone in the dust and am now using the Motorola Droid on Verizon… should see much better results.
7. What about groceries?
   I did a lot of shopping at Albertson’s which is in the same parking lot as the Yarrow hotel. You may be lucky enough to run into Mike Tyson like we did last year while your shopping for your hot pockets.
8. How many celebrities will I run into?
   I imagined Sundance to be completely filled to the brim with celebrities everywhere, just all hanging out on every street corner. Well that just isn’t the case. If you hang out on main street all day and all night you will definitely see a bunch…but if you are “working” and doing the press screening circuit then chances are your run in’s will be few and far between.

I am certain that there are thousands more, but those are the main ones I’ve gotten asked. If I didn’t answer your question here, hit me up in the comments section, email or twitter… or if you want an expert go talk to one of my good buddies listed above.