The 2025 Sundance Film Festival has seen a noticeable shift away from the overt anti-Trump political demonstrations that characterized previous years, particularly following the 2016 election. While past festivals featured prominent protests, such as Chelsea Handler's Women's March in 2017, and artists frequently used the platform to criticize then-President Trump, this year's event has been markedly different.

Variety reports a significant decrease in political activism, noting that publicists have discouraged political questions from journalists, and celebrities who previously voiced strong opinions against the Trump administration have been more reserved. This change comes despite the return of Donald Trump to the presidency.

While large-scale protests have been absent, Variety acknowledges that many films showcased at the festival still carry political undertones, often focusing on communities impacted by Trump's policies or presenting alternative societal viewpoints.

Christian Toto, host of the "Hollywood in Toto" podcast, suggests several reasons for this shift. He points to the film industry's current challenges, including the lingering effects of the pandemic, the 2023 strikes, and the recent Los Angeles fires, as factors contributing to a more cautious approach from actors concerned about their careers. He also notes the perceived decline in Hollywood's political influence, citing the unsuccessful efforts of celebrities to boost Kamala Harris's campaign in the 2024 election as evidence of waning sway.

Toto also suggests that some in Hollywood may harbor unfounded fears of reprisal from the Trump administration for expressing dissenting views, despite the consistent criticism directed at Trump by late-night hosts and other figures without apparent consequence.