Two islands — one that risks being swallowed by the ocean because of climate change, the other the fictitious home of director Wes Anderson's stop-motion animation dogs — are among the subjects Canadians are exploring at the 34th Sundance Film Festival.

They were the power chords that sparked a musical revolution: three growling, fuzzy blasts that made Link Wray's 1958 banned-by-radio instrumental Rumble a rule-breaking inspiration for rock guitarists who followed.

Now heading into its 33rd year, Robert Redford's Sundance Festival showcases independent film and has developed a reputation for highlighting breakout movies that go on to bigger things. This year, nine Canadian works are on the slate, with three from Indigenous producers.