Robert Redford and The Sundance Brand

We lost a legend this week with the passing of Robert Redford. RIP. Meryl Streep called him a “lion,” meaning a brave, strong, courageous, and natural leader. Indeed.

His long list of leading entertainment accomplishments puts him at the top of the list.

He was also a masterful marketer as well, through his establishment of The Sundance Brand. At the centerpiece of The Sundance Brand is of course The Sundance Film Festival which became one of the most prestigious and influential entertainment properties on the planet. A leader, the lion. But what many don’t know is that The Sundance Brand is actually much broader than just the Film Festival.

The Sundance Brand includes:

• The Sundance Institute: offers grants and facilities for film makers, screenwriters, composers, and artists … continuing the legacy for future generations. Now that’s leadership!

• Sundance TV: a television network that offers entertainment consistent with the independent film festival but in the television format.

• The Sundance Mountain Resort: a resort consistent with the Sundance aesthetic and lifestyle. Beautiful, a real retreat.

• The Sundance Living: clothing, accessories, and home decor consistent with the Sundance aesthetic and lifestyle. Bring the brand home! Wear the brand! Available via online and brick and mortar venues.

So as you can see, Sundance is a brand, a lifestyle brand, not just a Film Festival and Robert Redford was not only the founder but also the Brand Ambassador! The Brand Leader. The Lion.

Thank you Robert for all that you have given our world. We appreciate you.

What’s your experience? JIM