Update on independent film “Nice Knowing You.”

It’s exciting to share an update on the independent film I’m supporting in an executive producer role. It’s a project by Joe Burke, a promising young writer/director, entitled “Nice Knowing You.”

I heard from Joe this week that his re-shoots went great and he’s officially picture-locked the film. The early reviews from faculty who have seen it have been very flattering. One said, “It is sophisticated, mature, intelligent and incredibly moving. Well written and well directed. It is even more than it promised to be on the page.”

I first met Joe while he was at Columbia College in Chicago. He was a theater major, then switched to film/directing. While in school, Joe founded Elantra Films through which he produced and self-released several of short films (including an award-winning music video). Joe graduated from Columbia College in 2006 with a B.A. in Film, plus a Minor in Theater/Acting. He lives in Hollywood, CA and is now a Directing Fellow at The American Film Institute.

The American Film Institute (AFI) is the preeminent organization dedicated to advancing and preserving the art of film, television and other forms of the moving image. AFI trains the next generation of filmmakers at its world-renowned Conservatory, having served the moving image arts since its founding in 1969. The Conservatory awards the Master of Fine Arts. Professional faculty members work closely with the AFI Fellows through the time-honored relationship of master and apprentice.

Joe expects that “Nice Knowing You” will be completed by mid-May.

Keep up the good, creative work, Joe. I like your brand of filmmaking.