The passing of the controversial Proposition 8 in California has become a major concern at the upcoming 2009 Sundance Film Festival in Utah, after pro-gay marriage protesters have threatened to boycott the major venue.

The largest independent cinema festival in the U.S. is expecting to draw at least 50,000 people for its January run. Unfortunately, they might not be able to reach their target numbers after Cinemark CEO Alan Stock donated ,999 to the Yes on 8 Campaign.

A local organizer has suggested the boycott of Cinemark Theaters, which includes Cinemark's Holiday Village Cinema, a major screening venue for the festival. They are not only asking for the resignation of Stock, but also a public apology and donation to Human Rights campaign.

Festival rep Brooks Addicott told eonline.com that the gay-friendly Sundance will not be pulling out of its deal with the movie theater chain.

He said, "There's nothing we can do. We have a commitment to our filmmakers to show their films."

In their part, Cinemark is claiming that Stock's contribution is his personal expression and does not reflect the company's position.

Cinemark has issued a statement saying, "Any individual act or contribution is just that, individual acts of personal expression and do not reflect company positions of policy."