11 Feb TIO AZ: Sedona Film Fest: Byrkit, Workshops + “Coherence”!
Helmed by Executive Director Patrick Schweiss for 22 years of its 32 years, the Sedona Film Festival, (SFF), 2/21 – 3/1, has become world-renowned for bringing award-winning films and meaningful conversations to its growing community through filmmaker Q & As, workshops and seminars.
Among the stars on deck for this year’s event is Jim Byrkit, who is teaching two workshops: “Screenwriting and Storytelling” and “Visual Storyboarding & Cinematic Architecture.” A special screening of Byrkit’s “Coherence” is also on the schedule.
‘Screenwriting & Storytelling: Tuesday, February 24, 10 a.m., Sedona Performing Arts Center (workshop room).
“Visual Storyboarding & Cinematic Architecture: February 27, 1;30 p.m. Mary D. Fisher Theatre, workshop space.
“Coherence”: Monday, February 24, 7 p.m. Mary D. Fisher Theatre.
Go here to check out the full festival schedule.
Please scroll down to listen to Jim Byrkit’s podcast and learn more about Patrick Schweiss.
Image, courtesy Sedona Film Fest.
During a dinner party, a passing comet triggers fractures in reality, causing multiple versions of the guests—and their choices—to collide. As paranoia escalates, the film becomes a psychological maze about identity, free will, and the terror of confronting alternate selves.. That is a thumbnail sketch of the 2013 indie project “Coherence.”
“Coherence” became not just a story, but a filmmaking miracle. Industry insiders and indie creators point to the project as proof that high-concept cinema does require studio resources.
“Coherence” was shot in director Jim Byrkit’s house, was lit mostly with available lighting and made on a shoestring using minimal gear. Apparently the real-time confusion of the story translated into overlapping dialogue and escalating panic leading audiences to feel they were eavesdropping, not simply watching a scripted drama.
Bykrit’s “Coherence” buzzed and continues to engage because it made audiences feel smart; filmmakers feel inspired; and everyone feel existentially unsettled.
All at once.
Yes Byrkit is a renowned and highly respected schizophrenic – when it comes to his work. There is a striking split between the kinds of films he helped create and the ones he created himself such as “Coherence,” which established Byrkit as a cult auteur and a cerebral sci-fi voice.
However, as a storyboard artist Byrkit clearly can handle epic adventure in blockbusters such as the “Pirates of the Caribbean” franchise; “Rango,” 2011, which won Best Animated Feature”; and “The Lone Ranger,” 2013 for a few examples
Bottom line on Byrkit: He built his reputation on designing some of the 21st century’s biggest adventure spectacles — then subverted that reputation by directing one of its most intimate, reality-bending sci-fi cult films.
Check out Byrkit’s podcast to find out more about his life and work, his two workshops at Sedona Film Fest and his work in general, big and small films alike.
Patrick Schweiss, more:
Patrick Schweiss, courtesy SFF.
Patrick Schweiss is Executive Director of the Sedona International Film Festival and theaters.
He took the helm at the festival 22 years ago and has overseen its growth from a 3-day festival to a 9-day celebration of independent film.
In 2012, Schweiss initiated and oversaw the festival organization as it built its own arthouse theatre venue – The Mary D. Fisher Theatre – where it presents year-round independent films, theatrical and ballet productions on screen from around the world, live simulcasts and live theatrical events, as well as other arts and cultural events.
In June 2022, the festival opened its newest addition: the Alice Gill-Sheldon Theatre. Now the event has two theatre venues that operate daily all year long!
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