To celebrate and amplify the cinematic heritage and vibrant culture of the Royal Gorge Region by creating a film festival that inspires, entertains, and unites our community while promoting storytelling that reflects the spirit of the American West. In 2021, Benjamin Black, Sage Goodwin, and John Kinsner—three visionaries from different backgrounds—came together with a simple idea: to revitalize t
he film presence in the Royal Gorge Region. Benjamin, a lifelong resident of Canon City, spotted an Instagram account promoting the region’s film heritage and reached out to Sage, who had been brainstorming with John, a film and events expert from California. What started as a casual collaboration quickly evolved into a mission-driven project, rooted in a love for film and the region’s history. Through monthly meetings, creative brainstorming sessions, and a shared dedication, the Royal Gorge Film Festival took shape as a 501c3 nonprofit. Their goal was clear: to honor the cinematic legacy of the region while building a festival that would inspire generations to come. The Royal Gorge Film Festival is more than an event—it’s a movement to keep storytelling alive, to preserve history, and to celebrate the community where it all began.
