A slain New York filmmaker’s movie had its Sundance Film Festival premiere, and her husband announced a foundation in her name.
Adrienne Shelly’s “Waitress” opened to both cheers and weeping Sunday as its producers and the audience reflected on the grim circumstances surrounding the project.
“This is not in any way a screening that is meant to be a wake,” said the festival’s executive director, Geoffrey Gilmore, as he introduced the movie.
Shelly wrote, directed and starred in the film — and was accepted into the festival — only a short time before she was discovered murdered in her Manhattan apartment in November. A 19-year-old man was charged in her death; he has pleaded not guilty.
Andy Ostroy, Shelly’s husband, announced the creation of the Adrienne Shelly Foundation at the movie’s screening. The organization will offer scholarships to female independent filmmakers.
“Through the foundation, Adrienne’s legacy will continue to grow,” Ostroy said.
Shelly found success in quirky movies such as “The Unbelievable Truth” (1989) and “Trust” (1990). She was also seen in 2005’s “Factotum” with Matt Dillon.
“Waitress,” which stars Keri Russell, tells the story of a pregnant waitress who has an affair with her doctor to escape an abusive relationship.