GUNNISON — Embark on a nostalgic journey through a century of cinematic brilliance at the Made-In-Utah Film Fest, gracing the historic Casino Star Theatre in Gunnison from Feb. 22 to 24. This cinematic spectacle, unfolding in Utah’s oldest operational cinema, promises an immersive experience with a diverse lineup of films, presentations, a traveling exhibit, and a special reception.

The festival’s enchanting selection of films takes audiences on a captivating ride through time, showcasing iconic classics that have significantly impacted Utah’s cinematic history. From the vibrant dance floors of “Footloose” (1984) to the untamed wilderness depicted in “Jeremiah Johnson” (1972), the curated films span decades, weaving together a rich tapestry of storytelling on the silver screen. The festival also shines a spotlight on the contemporary documentary “Utah Movie Palaces” (2020), featuring the beloved Casino Star Theatre, along with the timeless western “Ramrod” (1947), celebrated as Utah’s Centennial Film.

Adding an extra layer of depth to the festival, renowned author and film historian James V. D’Arc will provide insightful introductions to the films and host a pre-release book signing of his latest masterpiece, “When Hollywood Came to Utah: Centennial Edition.” A distinguished figure from Glendale, California, D’Arc’s lifelong passion for classic films and the film industry led him to earn degrees in history and motion picture history at Brigham Young University. His book, based on over three decades of meticulous research, catalogues more than 1,000 films shot in Utah since 1913 and includes a Foreword by Hollywood star Kevin Costner. Costner highlights their collaboration on the epic Western, “Horizon: An American Saga,” entirely filmed in Utah.

The festival’s pinnacle is the free patron and sponsor appreciation reception on Saturday, February 24th, at 5:30 pm. Attendees will savor refreshments and witness the grand opening of the Utah Film Traveling Exhibit at Gunnison City Hall, titled “Utah, America’s Film Set: 100 Years of Utah Film & Television.” This exhibit, open to the public from February 24 to March 20 during regular business hours, commemorates a century since Utah’s first film premiered and marks the Utah Film Commission’s 50th anniversary in 2024. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the historical journey of film in Utah through captivating photographs and stories.

Individual film tickets are affordably priced at $7.50 for adults and $5.50 for children, while an All-Film Access Pass is available for just $20. Convenient ticket purchases can be made at the door. For the festival schedule, visit casinostartheatre.com for more information.

Established in 1913, the Casino Star Theatre stands as Gunnison’s cinematic cornerstone, Utah’s longest-running cinema, and oldest theater. The non-profit Casino Star Theatre Foundation actively preserves its rich legacy, focusing on venue restoration and delivering top-tier arts and entertainment to central Utah valleys. Collaborating with esteemed state partners such as the Utah Film Commission, PBS Utah, and the Utah Arts and Museums traveling exhibit division, the foundation ensures the success of this festival.

The Casino Star Theatre Live Event Season thrives with the invaluable support of local sponsors, including Roland and Julia Christensen, The Miner Foundation, Ensign Engineering, Central Utah Radiology, GV Recreation, Arts, and Parks, Hermansen’s Mill, Richard B. Nay, M.D., Rocky Mountain Power, and Jim and Suzanne Sanders. The season’s momentum continues with upcoming shows, including the Bulldog Benefit Concert on March 21, and Celtic music group Shanahy on April 25.

Join us at the Casino Star Theatre from Feb. 22 to 24 for the Made-In-Utah Film Fest, a heartfelt celebration of a century of storytelling. Featuring James D’Arc, this event is a testament to the enduring magic of movies, uniting communities in a cinematic journey through Utah’s rich film history.

Newsletter