The Sundance Film Festival 2025 is underway, and with it comes a new crop of original features that could go on to become awards season darlings in the coming months. Following last year's festival, which saw standout performances from films like Dìdi, A Different Man, and I Saw the TV Glow, this year's lineup is looking just as promising.

Among the films generating buzz are Atropia, Bubble & Squeak, and Didn't Die, which are all vying for attention from critics and audiences alike. The Verge is providing comprehensive coverage of the festival, with bite-sized reviews of each film, as well as longer, in-depth reviews and trailers.

One of the standout films so far is By Design, a surreal film starring Juliette Lewis as Camille, a woman who feels overlooked and ignored until she finds a beautiful designer chair that somehow switches places with her. The film's strange vision is weirdly charming, despite some slow moments, and builds towards a surprisingly intense climax.

Another film making waves is Didn't Die, a zombie apocalypse comedy-drama that follows Vinita, a determined podcaster, as she hosts her show despite the world coming to an end. The film starts out as a comedy but takes a touching and tragic turn when Vinita's ex and a surprise baby get involved, ending on a heartwarming and hopeful note.

The Legend of Ochi is another film generating buzz, with its gorgeous adventure storyline reminiscent of E.T. The film takes place in an isolated mountain community where ape-like creatures called ochi are hunted by farmers, and follows a young girl's quest to return an injured baby ochi to its family. While the film has a lot of promise, it's missing the spark to truly stand out, despite its incredible creature design and post-apocalyptic world.

As the festival continues, The Verge will be providing ongoing coverage of the latest updates, reviews, and news from Sundance 2025. Stay tuned for more insights into the films that could shape the awards season landscape in the coming months.

In the meantime, fans can mark their calendars for the release of The Legend of Ochi, which hits theaters on April 25th. With its family-friendly adventure storyline and stunning creature design, it's sure to be a hit with audiences of all ages.

As the Sundance Film Festival 2025 continues to unfold, one thing is clear: this year's lineup is packed with original features that are sure to make a lasting impact on the film industry. Whether you're a fan of surreal dramas, zombie comedies, or family-friendly adventures, there's something for everyone at this year's festival.