“Good stories translate,” muses Thor Moreno as he discusses his latest film, “SCHISM.” The indie filmmaker, known for unsettling narratives, is set to premiere his most ambitious project yet at the American Film Market (AFM) on November 8th, 2024.
Reflecting on his growth, Moreno acknowledges that a decade ago, he might have relied more heavily on jump scares and intense soundtracks. Now, he’s learned to let the story breathe and unfold naturally.
With over two decades in the industry and a reputation for pushing boundaries, Moreno’s evolution as a director is palpable in “SCHISM.” The psychological thriller, set against the moody, fog-drenched backdrop of Northern California’s Lost Coast, follows a clairvoyant grappling with haunting visions.
Moreno’s track record is impressive – screenings at more than 38 international festivals, 24 nominations, and 11 wins, including the coveted Best Director award at the Cannes World Film Festival. Yet, he remains refreshingly grounded, driven by his passion for storytelling rather than accolades.
“SCHISM” has already made waves, securing spots in 21 international film festivals and garnering critical acclaim. Moreno teases about the film’s finale, hinting at a shocking conclusion that viewers won’t see coming.
When discussing the challenges of filmmaking, Moreno emphasizes the pressure of time. Every second on set is costly, and filmmakers must hope that what they’re capturing truly matters.
For “SCHISM,” Thor Moreno reunited with cinematographer David Gordon for their third collaboration, highlighting the importance of trusted partnerships in his creative process. The filmmaker’s multifaceted approach – as both writer and director – contributes significantly to his unique storytelling style.
The AFM premiere represents a crucial opportunity for “SCHISM” to catch Hollywood’s attention amidst the sea of yearly film releases.
As anticipation builds for the AFM debut and subsequent global release, “SCHISM” stands poised to be Moreno’s defining moment. It’s a testament to his growth as a filmmaker, his unwavering commitment to storytelling, and potentially the film that will cement his place as one of indie cinema’s true visionaries.
For those eager to get a glimpse of Moreno’s latest work, the trailer for “SCHISM” is available on YouTube. The two-minute preview offers an impressive taste of the psychological depths and visual mastery that audiences can expect from the full film.