BIFF Announces Appointment of First Artist-in-Residence
Two Workshops:
Saturday Feb. 24th, 2:30 pm
Saturday March 3rd, 11:00 am
The Beloit International Film Festival will celebrate the art of filmmaking and help inspire a new generation of artists this year with the establishment of the post of BIFF Artist-in-Residence.
Damien Patrik, a familiar figure at BIFF with his warm demeanor and mane of white hair, will be the first filmmaker to serve in this capacity. A film producer, director and BIFF participant for years, Patrik received the Ken Hendrick’s Award for Excellence in 2017, recognizing his body of work and passion for filmmaking.
He will speak twice during BIFF and will work with young potential filmmakers in the Help Yourself after-school program at Beloit College.
MANIPULATION U
Saturday Feb. 24th, 2:30 pm
Free and open to the public
How do filmmakers manipulate (in a good way, of course) you, the audience into feeling and thinking and being MOVED while watching their work?
In this workshop Director Damien Patrik will show examples and discuss just how filmmakers use lighting, costume, texture, composition, editing, music, sound, camera movement and more in ways that get you feeling the way they want you to feel, think the way they want you to think, and take on the perspective of a character in the film.
Be prepared-you’ll never be able to watch a film again strictly in unconscious mode, you’ll be paying attention to the director and how he helps you to understand the story, and most importantly, the people, in his work.
THE CASTING PROCESS FOR ACTORS AND DIRECTORS
Saturday March 3rd, 11:00 am
Free and open to the public
Patrik brings a wealth of experience to his workshops on “The Casting Process for Actors and Directors.” He offers the unique perspective gained from years of participation in auditions as an actor, as a casting director, and over the past decade, as the producer.
“Choose the right actors for your project, and your esteem as a director grows,” he says. “Choose the wrong ones and you could be seen as the next Ed Wood” referring to the Hollywood outcast director who persevered with little commercial success.
His fast-paced interactive workshop focusses on why casting is so important to a director’s success. “How to do it in a way where you attract the best talent and create a space for them to do their best work. Actors will learn how to take control of their auditions, showcase their talent, and get hired.”
During the workshop, there will be an opportunity for several actors to participate in live auditions/interviews. Those interested in participating should notify Sabrina Krejci at sabrina@beloitfilmfest.org or via text at 773-719-8553.
The Beloit International Film Festival, celebrating its 13th season, is sponsored by the Hendricks Group in association with Beloit College and with additional support provided by Visit Beloit. Support for the Festival comes from area businesses and civic organizations, and the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts. Individual support for BIFF is provided through membership in the BIFF Founders and the Film Society of Beloit.
