In the Wake TV Producers Shayna and Julia get real about the Sundance Film Festival paradox: it's where dreams are made—and where films go to die, depending on distribution outcomes. In this candid conversation, they break down the harsh reality that a Sundance premiere doesn't guarantee your film will ever see the light of day beyond Park City.

But Then There's Sly Lives! Questlove's highly anticipated documentary Sly Lives! (aka The Burden of Black Genius)came to Sundance 2025 with something most filmmakers can only dream of: a distribution deal already in place. The follow-up to his Oscar-winning debut Summer of Soul, this film explores the life, music, and struggles of legendary musician Sly Stone—diving deep into the unique challenges faced by Black artists navigating genius, industry exploitation, and cultural expectations.

Why This Matters: Shayna and Julia's discussion highlights the two-tiered reality of independent film: some projects arrive with backing and buzz, while others leave the festival in limbo despite critical acclaim. For Black filmmakers and stories centering Black genius, securing distribution before the premiere can mean the difference between cultural impact and obscurity.

Watch the full conversation as our producers unpack what it takes to get your film seen, why Questlove's strategic approach matters, and what emerging filmmakers can learn from how Sly Lives! navigated the system.

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