Killer Films Celebrates 30 Years with Retrospective at Metrograph

Killer Films, a prominent production company in independent cinema, is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a special retrospective at New York’s Metrograph, running through August 17. Curated by Christine Vachon, the Artistic Director of the Stony Brook University MFA in Film Program and a co-founder of Killer Films, the event showcases eight influential films that have shaped the company’s legacy in the film industry.

The retrospective commenced on August 5 at 22:30 with a screening of Office Killer, the cult horror film from artist Cindy Sherman that inspired the production company’s name. Vachon, alongside co-founder Pamela Koffler, expressed the challenge of selecting films that represent the company’s journey. “Each title holds a unique place in the long, winding journey of how this company came to be — each film is a chapter in our story,” they stated.

Retrospective Highlights and Engagements

The series features a diverse lineup of films, each accompanied by discussions or special events. Notable screenings include:

– I’m Not There (August 6): Directed by Todd Haynes, this 2007 biopic on Bob Dylan features an ensemble cast including Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Richard Gere, and Cate Blanchett.

– One Hour Photo (August 8): A psychological thriller directed by Mark Romanek, showcasing a haunting performance by Robin Williams.

– Far From Heaven (August 9): Another film by Todd Haynes, this 2002 drama stars Julianne Moore and Dennis Quaid and explores themes of love and societal expectations. A Q&A with Haynes, moderated by Vachon, will take place following the screening.

– Zola (August 9): Directed by Janicza Bravo, this 2021 film is based on a viral Twitter thread detailing a 48-hour adventure in Florida. A Q&A with Bravo, also moderated by Vachon, will follow the screening.

– Happiness (August 16): This 1998 indie classic by Todd Solondz stars Philip Seymour Hoffman and Lara Flynn Boyle and delves into the complexities of human relationships.

– Hedwig and the Angry Inch (August 17): John Cameron Mitchell’s adaptation of his own off-Broadway musical rounds off the series.

A special “Killer Secret Screening” is also scheduled for August 10 at 19:45, with details kept under wraps to enhance the surprise element for attendees.

Significance and Support

The retrospective not only marks Killer Films’ three decades of influence but also coincides with the 10th anniversary of the Stony Brook MFA in Film program, which has benefited from its partnership with the production company. Magdalene Brandeis, Associate Chair of the Department of Creative Writing, Film and Television at Stony Brook, remarked, “Christine Vachon is a legend in the independent film industry, and continues to inspire filmmakers, Stony Brook master’s students, and artists all over the world.”

The event has attracted attention from prestigious outlets such as Deadline, Time Out, and Variety, showcasing the cultural significance of Killer Films in contemporary cinema.

As the retrospective unfolds, attendees can expect not only to enjoy cinematic masterpieces but also to engage with the stories behind their creation, solidifying Killer Films’ place within the landscape of independent filmmaking.