Not everyone wants to listen to directors dissect their films and the Hollywood production machine.
I ran out at the conclusion of a fantastic set program (People & Places), though I would have loved to hear the directors’ Q&A. I figured I was cutting it close with only 10 minutes until John Dahl began his Masterclass, and thought I would be battling a line. Alas, no such problem.
Most films began seating a half-hour ahead with a steady flow of audience members. I arrived to a mostly empty audience, with the exception of the first five rows filled by young filmmakers hoping to glean a bit from Dahl’s years of experience.
On the third day of the fest, the filmmakers held an easy rapport with one another. Most of the pre-class conversation centered around last night’s parties and mischief, reminiscent of Monday morning recaps on campus. The fest environment has all the great enthusiasm and camaraderie of a small college.