Sundance Film Festival: 4 Things to Be Excited About in Park City

E! host shares all the things she can't wait to see in Park City

By Arlene Santana, Sponsored by Chase Sapphire Preferred Jan 20, 2015 1:00 PMTags
Arlene SantanaBrandon Hickman/E!

Every January, the festival circuit kicks off with a huge bang in Park City, Utah. The Sundance Film Festival showcases the best and brightest in independent films. It also attracts some of the biggest names in Hollywood. This year I'll be on hand serving as E! Online's eyes and ears as your Sundance Insider. We'll check out the most buzzed-about movies, talk to filmmakers, hit the hottest parties in town and even try out the best food Park City has to offer. This will be my first time at the festival and I can't wait to experience it all.

Here are a few things I'm most excited for:

Sundance

Film:

One of the films already generating buzz is I Am Michael. Based on a true story, the drama which stars James Franco, Emma Roberts and Zachary Quinto, follows the journey of a gay activist who eventually becomes a Christian pastor. I love when Franco steps out of his comfort zone and gives us some drama. Let's not forget that he was nominated for an Oscar in 2011 for his work in 127 Hours.

Courtesy of Sundance Institute

The Overnight, starring Taylor Schilling, Adam Scott and Jason Schwartzman is also drawing lots of attention. The movie is about an overnight playdate between two families that takes some surprising turns. Schilling and Schwartzman? Can't wait.

Courtesy Chimayo

Food:

I am dying to sink my teeth into Chimayo on Main Street, one of the best restaurants in Park City. The Southwestern inspired menu by Executive Chef Arturo Flores includes dishes like roasted vegetables enchiladas and grilled buffalo steak. Oh, and did I mention Mexican chocolate fondue!

iStock

Fun:

Now is as good of a time as ever to admit that I've never actually experienced snow. I've seen snowflakes here and there but never "snowman" kind of snow. That being said, I am super excited at the possibility of getting in some slope action. I've got my fingers crossed for this one.

You'll get exclusive access to The Sundance Film Festival of everything I'm exploring right here on E! Online. I'll also be posting lots of pics and updates on my Instagram and Twitter pages. Want more? Tweet me your questions and comments concerning Sundance and I'll give you even more scoop!

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