Comments about ‘About Utah: Utah Valley resident Sterling Van Wagenen was there before Redford’

I have to admit, I'm concerned about the influence this festival has on our community. Particularly with regard to sultry images used in some of the films.

In 1998, Sterling Van Wagenen wrote a book published by Gibbs Smith Books Publisher about the early years and creation of this film festival.

Unfortunately, although highly regarded after a number of years, the festival was suffering financially.

Eventually, Robert Redford's money rescued it and made it into what it is today.

In my opinion, until today in this article, Sterling has never received half the thanks nor the credit he deserves for his creativity and hard work to make the festival the great success it now is.

Not to slight Mr. Redford's business acumen, his name and money did wonders to put the festival on the map.

Penguin,
Then exercise your freedom of choice and buy tickets to the films that don't have "sultry images" in them. What, specifically, do you think this film festival is going to do to our community?

God created the ability to enjoy "sultry images". Without them, there'd be no procreation.

The only thing I'm afraid of, are those people who fear such "sultry images", because they don't trust themselves to act morally.

Thanks so much for this article! My father, John Earle, was so proud of the festival and what it did for Utah. After his passing in 1985, the true history of the festival was rarely told. Our family appreciates you mentioning him and keeping his legacy alive!!

Megan Earle