Russell Roots

Russell Roots, Director of Film Exhibition with Utah Film Center, is responsible for delivering dynamic, innovative, and professional film programming to Utah’s audiences. In addition to this role, they are the Festival Director of the Utah Queer Film Festival, the program manager of the Film Center’s Black culture program, Black, Bold & Brilliant, and are featured in radio, television, and printed media pieces regularly, specifically through their programmatic partnerships with KRCL RadioACTive and KUER RadioWest. Russell has been presented with the Outstanding Artistic Achievement Award by the Utah Cultural Alliance for their work at Utah Film Center, and was the recipient of a Utah Business Living Color award in the “community involvement” category for their Black, Bold & Brilliant programming. Black, Bold, and Brilliant also received the designation of “Best Cultural Program” in City Weekly’s 2023 Best of Utah issue. Additionally, their Summer Outdoor Film Series programming was recognized as the “Best Neighborhood Gathering” by City Weekly’s 2024 Best of Utah issue.