Continuing its success of acquiring films at and around the time of the Sundance Film Festival, Hypnotic has announced its slate of new films for its 2002 distribution schedule. Hypnotic, which is partially owned by Universal, entering it’s third year, will distribute these films worldwide in the television, theatrical, broadband, home video channels. This multi-platform strategy of short film distribution is the first stage of Hypnotic’s relationship with filmmakers. Recently Hypnotic announced its two-year relationship with Chrysler Group, branding the Chrysler Million Dollar Festival.
“Our commitment to building Hypnotic’s distribution network is only strengthened by our continued ability to identify the most exciting young filmmakers in the world today, says Gene Klein, Executive Vice President, Hypnotic. He continues, “We are proud to begin a long-term relationship with these filmmakers that starts today with their short films.”
The new slate of Hypnotic acquisitions is led by: ^ “Afro Deutsch,” directed by Berlin-based commercial and music video director Ayassi. This is his first short film that tells the story of a man recalling critical moments in his life as he turns to face his enemies.
“Blue Haven,” the story of two skateboarders in search of the perfect empty swimming pool, but one sex change and six kung fu fighters later, find love instead — directed by USC Peter Stark Program graduate Julian Cautherley.
“Gasline,” directed by former advertising executive and Columbia Film School graduate Dave Silver, is the story of a gas station owner’s struggles and near survival amidst the 1979 oil crisis.
“Horses on Mars” is an innovative computer animated short telling the story of a space traveler only 3.5 microns tall — directed by USC Film student Eric Anderson.
“Lunch,” the story of a white collar slob and his obscene meal and is directed by Matthew Ehlers – a music video producer and graduate of the USC Cinema School.
“Whoa,” Temple University graduate Maurice A. Dwyer has worked with notable filmmakers such as Spike Lee. Dwyer’s “Whoa” is an urban opera about a man in the wrong place at the wrong time; based on an actual incident the director experienced at the age of 14.
Hypnotic’s library of filmed entertainment is also strengthened through the 2002 Chrysler Million Dollar Film Festival (MDFF) launched during the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah. Filmmakers will be invited to submit a short film, with selected applicants advancing through a series of competitions and exhibitions to determine the winner and launch a career in Hollywood as a feature film director. Universal Pictures will market and distribute the winning feature production, which will be overseen by Hypnotic co-founder Doug Liman, the acclaimed director of “Swingers,” “Go” and the soon-to-be-released “The Bourne Identity” (starring Matt Damon, distributed by Universal Pictures, May, 2002.)
Additionally, young filmmakers have been encouraged to visit the Chrysler Lodge, open at the same time as Sundance Film Festival and located in nearby Deer Park, Utah. The environment will include gourmet food prepared by celebrity chefs, a day spa, daily entertainment and high-end luxury products for invited guests. Also during Sundance, the Million Dollar Film Festival will host an invitation-only filmmakers event, with a live musical performance from Alanis Morissette.
“These acquisitions build Hypnotic’s branded entertainment position, increasing the opportunities for emerging filmmakers to launch their career through working with world class products and brands,” says Jeremy Bernard, Hypnotic President. “Hypnotic sees emerging filmmakers as the leading edge creative community in the entertainment world.”
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