Sundance Scene and Heard: Black Eyed Peas, Issa Rae, Joaquin Phoenix and More (Photos)

Ethan Hawke deserved to kick back after making the rounds for two films at Sundance Friday night, "Blaze," which he wrote and directed, and "Juliet, Naked," which he stars in. But Lena Waithe and Issa Rae did anything but that at Showtime's party at the IMDb Studio for Waithe's new series "The Chi."

How is Nic Cage so cool? Remember, he is a Coppola. Before a midnight screening of "Mandy," on Friday night, he and Kevin Smith held the early lead for one of the top shots of the festival so far.

What are the Black Eyed Peas doing in Park City? They have an animated series to promote. The Peas started the week in NYC on MTV's aimless "TRL" reboot and ended it in the mountains partying with this crew.... Also Read: Black Eyed Peas and Marvel Comics Team Up for Zombie Graphic Novel

Ted Danson, Kiersey Clemons, Blythe Danner, Sasha Lane, Nick Offerman and Brett Haley. The "Hearts Beat Loud" after-party at the Grey Goose Blue Door on Thursday night was the first bash back at this space after a two-year hiatus. The crowd was primed. A throng clogged Main Street before the doors opened as buyers made their way in.

Taking director Gus Van Sant (left) out of the rankings, it looks like photographer Michael Kovac asked these guys to line up in descending order of genuine Sundance spirit: Jack Black, Jonah Hill and Joaquin Phoenix. Also Read: ‘Don’t Worry, He Won’t Get Far on Foot’ Film Review: Joaquin Phoenix Shines in Disjointed Drama

"Sorry to Bother You" director Boots Riley and Lakeith Stanfield staked out a rare commodity at the festival -- personal space.  The two hit Charles and Stacey King's MACRO Lodge on Friday.

It's always great to see the guest of honor actually having fun at their own event. "The Chi'" debuted on the same night as the Golden Globes, muddling the celebratory window for the creative ensemble. Two weeks later, creator/executive producer Lena Waithe was ready to rock.  Also Read: Lena Waithe Tops Out 100 List, Reflects on Historic Emmy Win for ‘Master of None’

For the fourth consecutive year, Delta flew a plane of industry big shots to the festival on opening day. So who got first class? Nick Offerman and UTA motion picture agent Jay Gassner were among those riding up front.

More to come from the snowy scene in Park City...