As the Sundance Film Festival prepares to set up its new home in Boulder starting in 2027, the city’s cinematic legacy comes into sharp focus. This move is not just a change of venue; it’s a continuation of a story that began over a century ago. Boulder’s relationship with film is deeply rooted, intertwined with its cultural fabric, and poised to embrace a new chapter with Sundance’s arrival.
The city’s cinematic journey commenced in 1898 with the screening of “Battle of Santiago Bay” at Chautauqua Auditorium. This two-minute short, shown on a kinetoscope, marked the beginning of Boulder’s love affair with cinema. Over the years, this passion has evolved, shaping the city’s unique cultural landscape and paving the way for its role as a future host to one of the world’s most prestigious film festivals.
The Birth of Cinema in Boulder
The first film screening in Boulder was a modest affair, yet it set the stage for the city’s cinematic future. The kinetoscope, an early motion picture device invented by Thomas Edison, brought the Spanish-American War to life for Boulder audiences. This initial exposure to film was just the beginning of a rich cinematic tradition that would grow and flourish over the decades.
In 1906, the Temple Theatre presented Boulder’s first projected film, “Hooligans of the Far West,” for a mere 25 cents. This same year saw the opening of the Curran Opera House, which would later be renamed the Boulder Theater in 1936. This venue became the city’s first dedicated cinema, offering a mix of ballet, orchestral concerts, silent films, and children’s shows before transitioning into a full-time movie theater.
Boulder on the Big Screen
Boulder’s scenic beauty and unique character have not gone unnoticed by Hollywood. The city has served as a backdrop for several notable films and television shows. In 1954, “The Glenn Miller Story,” starring Jimmy Stewart, became the first Hollywood film shot in Boulder. This biographical drama about the famous trombonist and bandleader Glenn Miller, who attended CU Boulder, marked the beginning of Boulder’s appearances on the silver screen.
The 1970s sitcom “Mork and Mindy” brought further fame to Boulder, with the city serving as the setting for the show and hosting partial filming. More recently, scenes from Stanley Kubrick’s classic horror film “The Shining” were shot in Boulder, adding to its cinematic pedigree. In 2026, the action-thriller “Elevation,” starring Anthony Mackie, was primarily filmed in the city, showcasing its diverse landscapes and urban settings.
Cultivating a Cinephile Culture
CU Boulder has played a pivotal role in nurturing Boulder’s cinematic culture. In 1941, professor James Sandoe established the University film series, now known as the International Film Series. This initiative brought a variety of films to campus, fostering a deeper appreciation for cinema among students and the community. Sandoe’s efforts also led to the founding of the Colorado Shakespeare Festival in 1958, further enriching Boulder’s cultural scene.
The university’s influence on experimental filmmaking cannot be overstated. In 1981, Stan Brakhage, a pioneer in experimental filmmaking, began teaching at CU Boulder. Brakhage’s work, which included nearly 400 films, had a profound impact on the medium and inspired countless filmmakers, including Martin Scorsese. His legacy continues to thrive through the Brakhage Center at CU Boulder, directed by Kelly Sears, which promotes engagement with experimental film and honors Brakhage’s contributions.
Experimental film, often described as the poetry of cinema, is a non-narrative form that explores the expressive potential of film beyond traditional storytelling. It embraces abstraction, symbolism, and innovative techniques, offering a unique and thought-provoking experience for audiences. This genre has been a cornerstone of CU Boulder’s film program, attracting students and scholars from around the world.
The university’s film program has also produced notable alumni, including Trey Parker and Matt Stone, the creators of the animated sitcom “South Park.” The duo met in Don Yannacito’s Super 8 and avant-garde filmmaking class in the 1990s, where they honed their skills and developed their distinctive satirical style. Yannacito, a senior instructor emeritus, has been instrumental in shaping CU Boulder’s experimental film program, which has become a hallmark of the university’s artistic offerings.
As Sundance prepares to make Boulder its new home, the city’s rich cinematic history and vibrant cultural scene are set to intersect with the festival’s global influence. This union promises to bring new opportunities for filmmakers, artists, and audiences alike, further cementing Boulder’s status as a hub for cinematic innovation and creativity.
