10 years ago, Susan and I took our film Four Eyed Monsters to its world premiere in Park City, Utah. So much has changed in the world since then. So much has changed in our lives since then. Recently, indieWIRE published a piece reflecting on our careers over the past 10 years since the film’s 2005 Park City premiere. The premiere of the film led to invitations to travel around the world for presentations, dozens of theatrical screenings, national television appearances, and millions of views of the film on the internet and corresponding video podcasts. But we couldn’t have achieved all of this without our fans.
At every turn of success, there was a sleeper fan waiting to awaken and contribute to the phenomenon that was this film. Someone selecting speakers for a conference came across our video podcast and thought of us. Someone curating films for a festival fought for its inclusion. Even in casual conversations, people would happen to mention our project at the perfect moment, leading their friends to check it out and pass it on. Each of these small acts added up to the success of the project, and so we extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who became a sleeper agent for our film. Thank you!
Our new film, Matter Out Of Place, would also never have been possible without all the connections and opportunities created by Four Eyed Monsters. So, a double thank you!
We are celebrating 10 years of Four Eyed Monsters with a screening this Thursday at a monthly venue I have been working with a volunteer team to create since June. The space is called 3B and represents the first step in a vision for a network of venues that can showcase films using open-source, low-cost computers and custom software to securely deliver uninterrupted, rock-solid playback to the projector and sound system. The goal of all this is to bring independently produced films to audiences who would otherwise not have discovered them.
We are screening Four Eyed Monsters not to dwell on the past, but to look forward. Who we have been only provides context for who we are going to be. What films are in store for the future? What other distribution innovations are possible? You’ll have to stay tuned to this blog to find out. Alternatively, you can come and ask questions at the Q&A session after this Thursday’s screening. If you’re planning to attend, please RSVP on Facebook since the space can accommodate a maximum of around 40 people. The event is free and will be followed by a Q&A session. I hope to see you there!
Arin Crumley 