A highly anticipated film has been withdrawn from the 2025 Sundance Film Festival just days before its scheduled premiere, following a dispute between the director and the film’s financier.
“BLKNWS: Terms & Conditions,” directed by Kahlil Joseph, was abruptly removed from the festival’s lineup after Participant Media discovered the director had created and shown an alternative version of the film without authorization.
The conflict erupted after Participant learned that Joseph screened a different cut of the film at Creative Artists Agency (CAA) on January 17th. The disputed version reportedly differs from the approved cut by approximately one minute, primarily involving legal clearance issues.
“We are deeply disappointed by the sudden withdrawal,” a Sundance representative said, describing the film as “a radiant and immersive cinematic experience” that will not be shown at this year’s festival.
The controversy highlights complex tensions in the film’s production. Participant, which invested millions of dollars over several years, claims Joseph missed the original delivery deadline of June 2022. The project’s timeline was further complicated by the COVID-19 pandemic and 2023 Hollywood labor strikes.
Previously, indie distributor A24 had also left the project in August 2024 due to repeated delays in receiving the final cut. The film, starring Shaunette Renée Wilson, aims to explore the intersections of art, journalism, and cultural critique.
Adding complexity to the situation, Participant Media technically ceased formal operations in April 2024, though it continues to exist as a holdings company managing its film library.
Neither Joseph’s representatives nor Participant have provided extensive public comments beyond legal correspondence. The Sundance Film Festival, running from January 23 to February 2, 2025, will proceed without the controversial film.
The incident underscores the delicate relationships between filmmakers and financiers, particularly in independent cinema where creative vision and financial investment often clash.
