Chloé Zhao Becomes Only Second Female Filmmaker Nominated Twice for Best Director

Sundance is still the gold standard launching pad for docs, but filmmakers and producers are plotting self-release strategies early rather than wait for a mega worldwide deal.

Amazon MGM Studios is releasing the Mattel film, based on the '80s toys and series, on June 5 in theaters.

Warner Bros. also broke Oscar records with 16 nominations for "Sinners." Netflix and international juggernaut Neon landed 18 nominations each.

Ryan Coogler's vampire blockbuster broke the record for most nominations, and the energy in the room made it clear it was the audience favorite.

Rather than scripted series, the new Sundance Now wants to be the definitive home for independent films.

"One Battle After Another," "Sinners," "Frankenstein," and "Hamnet" all take in big nomination hauls, and the casting category may lead the way for who will take home the most Oscars.

The indie distributor has shown or acquired some 33 films at Sundance since the mid-'80s. And he'll be there for the last Park City showdown.