Park City, UT - The Sundance Film Festival became a platform for impassioned activism as Olivia Wilde, attending the festival, vociferously condemned ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) during a panel discussion. Wilde, whose presence at Sundance is highly anticipated, didn't hold back her feelings about the agency, labeling its actions as "hideous" and "criminal," and emphasizing the human cost with the stark assertion that "people are being murdered."

Wilde's comments, delivered with palpable emotion, quickly reverberated across social media, igniting both support and controversy. The actress and director has long been a vocal advocate for social justice issues, and her outspoken stance at Sundance is consistent with her past activism.

The remarks came during a "Beyond Film" talk at the festival. The Sundance Institute's Story Forum will occur on Monday, January 26, to “discuss the latest ideas and technologies in storytelling”. These events are being held in both Park City and Salt Lake City between Friday, January 23 and Friday, January 30.

Wilde is not the only celebrity using the Sundance Film Festival to make a statement. It was reported that she wore an "ICE Out" pin at the festival. The festival, known for showcasing independent films and fostering discussions around social issues, has historically been a magnet for politically engaged artists.

Wilde is at Sundance for the premiere of Gregg Araki's “I Want Your Sex,”. Araki describes the film as "bold, daring and very controversial,” a cross between Robert Mapplethorpe and Madonna.

The Sundance Film Festival continues to unfold in Park City, with a vibrant mix of film premieres and discussions.