Please note, there is limited space for this event. Registrants should arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled start time for the best chance to be seated.

 
Over the course of NanoWave: The Microbudget Film (r)evolution, we’re diving into ultra-microbudget filmmaking and the filmmakers who are producing independent films with budgets under $100,000. The six-part series will explore this revolutionary model of storytelling and the artists who get the job done with minimal resources.

Join us for a special screening of the feature film Invention, followed by a conversation with writer/director Courtney Stephens, writer/producer/actress Callie Hernandez, and sound designer Emile Klein.

A conspiracy-minded father unexpectedly dies and, in the aftermath, his daughter receives his patent for an experimental healing device. Featuring archival material from Callie Hernandez’s actual late father, Invention explores the process of grieving a complicated parent – and the act of making the film itself becomes a part of the process.

The film, which premiered at the 77th Locarno Film Festival, was shot entirely on Super 16mm and is a unique collaboration between director Stephens and producer Hernandez. With only their Director of Photography, Rafael Palacio Illingworth, Stephens and Hernandez filmed their semi-autobiographical feature, recording sound themselves with only lav mics and later bringing in Klein who mixed everything in post-production.

Collaborating with the right crew is important, especially so on a microbudget film, where artists tend to wear more than one hat as they work tirelessly to bring a vision to life. For Invention, director and producer effectively filled the role of every cast and crew member – above the line and below – while employing the help of only a select few to accomplish their vision.

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2024, 72 minutes, color | Written by Callie Hernandez, Courtney Stephens | Directed by Courtney Stephens | Main Cast Callie Hernandez, Sahm McGlynn, James N. Kienitz Wilkins, Paul Kleiman, Tony Torn, Lucy Kaminsky, Joe Swanberg, Caveh Zahedi, Philip Good, Eleni Sikelianos
 

Registration Information

Film Independent Members can register for this event starting on August 5. | Registration is free; one registration per Membership. | Proof of Member status is required.

Film Lover Members, Secret Members and Fellows (with an active Membership) receive priority entry to this event. Email [email protected] for more.

Arts Circle Members are guaranteed access, and receive both priority entry and reserved seating. For information about Arts Circle, contact Jennifer Murby at [email protected].
 

Tickets/Parking

On the day of the event, registered Members may check in as early as 30 minutes prior to the scheduled start time. Tickets are nontransferable and for general, unreserved theater seating only (except for Arts Circle Members). Attendees must be in their seat(s) at least 15 minutes prior to the advertised start time or seat(s) may be released. Entry/seating will be handled on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration does not guarantee entry.

Complimentary parking provided after 5:30 pm with validation. Enter garage from Hauser or Masselin.
 

Accessibility

Film Independent is committed to hosting events that are accessible. For inquiries regarding accessibility, or to request an accommodation, please contact us at [email protected] or 323 556 9305.
 

Screening Policies

Availability window and registration capacity may vary; always register as early as possible. Limit one registration per Membership, per event.

Members are required to follow all rules and guidelines as laid out by Film Independent and/or its partners. If a guest has been registered for an event by a Member, these policies shall apply to that guest. Violation of policies may result in suspension or termination of Membership/access to future events.

Event details and guest participation are subject to change or cancellation without prior notice.
 

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