ArtClass has added director and photographer Matthew James Thompson to its roster for U.S. representation spanning commercials and branded content.
Recognized for his distinctive style that seamlessly merges narrative and visual artistry, Thompson has fashioned a diverse portfolio, ranging from high-profile brand campaigns to intimate and powerful portraits. Prior to joining ArtClass, Thompson had been represented in the commercialmaking arena by production house Backyard. Thompson’s clients include BMW, Nike, Google, Jeep, and Oreo. His short film for Field Notes Notebooks won awards at the IAC, Addy and Hatch competitions.
ArtClass managing director Rebecca Niles said that Thompson “brings a wealth of experience and a unique creative perspective to our team. His talent and passion for storytelling align perfectly with our vision of delivering exceptional content for our clients. We are excited to collaborate with Matthew and leverage his expertise to push the boundaries of commercial filmmaking. He strengthens our commitment to providing top-notch creative solutions and emphasizes our dedication to working with the best talent in the industry.”
Thompson said, “ArtClass’ positive momentum and growth over the past few years have been inspiring to watch. And their commitment to creative innovation and authenticity really resonates with my own approach to storytelling. I’ve been lucky to know [ArtClass founders] Vince [director Peone] and Geno [producer Imbriale] since they started and am equally as excited for where ArtClass is now as where we’re heading.”
Review: Writer-Directors Scott Beck and Bryan Wood’s “Heretic”
"Heretic" opens with an unusual table setter: Two young missionaries from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are discussing condoms and why some are labeled as large even though they're all pretty much a standard size. "What else do we believe because of marketing?" one asks the other.
That line will echo through the movie, a stimulating discussion of religion that emerges from a horror movie wrapper. Despite a second-half slide and feeling unbalanced, this is the rare movie that combines lots of squirting blood and elevated discussion of the ancient Egyptian god Horus.
Our two church members — played fiercely by Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East — are wandering around trying to covert souls when they knock on the door of a sweet-looking cottage. Its owner, Mr. Reed, offers a hearty "Good afternoon!" He welcomes them in, brings them drinks and promises a blueberry pie. He's also interested in learning more about the church. So far, so good.
Mr. Reed is, of course, if you've seen the poster, the baddie and he's played by Hugh Grant, who doesn't go the snarling, dead-eyed Hannibal Lecter route in "Heretic." Grant is the slightly bumbling, bashful and self-mocking character we fell in love with in "Four Weddings and a Funeral," but with a smear of menace. He gradually reveals that he actually knows quite a bit about the Mormon religion — and all religions.
"It's good to be religious," he says jauntily and promises his wife will join them soon, a requirement for the church. Homey touches in his home include a framed "Bless This Mess" needlepoint on a wall, but there are also oddities, like his lights are on a timer and there's metal in the walls and ceilings.
Writer-directors Scott Beck and Bryan Wood — who also... Read More