My brother-in-law is going to Sundance again this year and I was thinking of getting him a good book on the history of the fest, or some guidebook. He's gone before, so I don't think the "Virgin's Guide" would be the best fit. Anyone read a festival book or anything related that might be worthy of checking out?

Down and Dirty Pictures

It gives a pretty good background on the independent film boom of the '90s caused by Miramax and the Sundance festival

I think Chris Gore's Book has some info on fests. Is he attending as a filmmaker or a fan?

There are really few books that capture how to do that fest well.

Here's the tip sheet I've developed over the past years of going to the fest:

- Don't book films on the last day
- Don't buy too much food for the condo
- Do buy lots of drinking water and tea to hydrate
- Don't buy tickets for movies that you KNOW are coming to theaters (ie comedies like Be Kind Rewind)
- Balance the slate between Features and Docs, don't go too crazy with either
- Make sure you don't have too many early mornings, plan your 'Five & Six' movie days between 3-4 movie days
- Leave spaces open for things. don't over book
- Don't buy tickets for something you're on the fence about
- Do see at least 2 movies you've never heard of or on a subject you wouldn't ordinarily see
- Print out the film grid and mark it up with notes before you come INCLUDING running times
- Factor in 15-20 mins q&a after a film if you chose to stay
- Venues that are easy to get to - Library, Egyptian, Holiday Village, Yarrow, Eccles
- Prospector Square sucks and Racket Center is rough if you have to go anywhere else.
- Book films at the Holiday Village it's often VERY easy to unload them if you want and HARD to get tix to them
- Bring good meal replacement snacks as you WILL miss meals
- Buy peanut butter and bread for the condo it's a LIFESAVER
- If you are press, don't just go as press, it's important to go to public screenings
- Bring gum/mints/etc
- Know that some mornings you aren't going to shower shave etc
- Bring layers and interchangable clothing. At least 2 pairs of shoes and 2 hats (so you can switch off)
- Go opening weekend... it's where it's really happening, despite the insane crowds. Stay 6-7 days at least.
- Egyptian IS the Sundance experience
- Beware films which come from the Sundance Filmmakers lab, it's a 50/50 shot if they're good or not.
- There is a natural food store behind rite aide near albertsons
- Don't plan to cook anything elaborate. Get the quick fix Tastey Meals.
- Bring throat drops & pocket packs of Kleenex
- Sport/support underwear works good (ie Jokey) and more roomey pants for all that sitting
- DON'T wear contacts at Sundance