Filmworkers has a tradition for developing post-production talent and now it has two new stars in the making. Young colorists Jeff Altman and Matt Harger are producing standout work, and developing strong followings among local agencies and filmmakers for their enthusiasm, knowledge of digital cameras from the Alexa to the iPhone, and their ability to quickly work with clients to reach desired creative goals.
“Jeff and Matt bring fresh eyes and new ideas and our clients are responding,” says Filmworkers president Reid Brody. Brody adds that the recent arrival of veteran colorist Craig Leffel has also provided a boost. “We’ve built the strongest, most diverse color department in the market.”
Altman joined Filmworkers earlier this year after two-years coloring at Color Collective in New York. His latest project, All Work All Play, is a documentary about the rising phenomenon of video game competitions or “eSports.” It is currently the subject of special theater screenings across the United States and internationally. Directed by Patrick Creadon, a two-time nominee for a Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival, the doc centers on players participating in the Intel Extreme Masters, a global professional esports tournament, and the growing legion of fans devoted to the sport.
All Work All Play debuted July 21st in theaters across North America and in Europe on July 30th. The event included a Q&A with the filmmakers as well as a live-streamed “eSports showdown” featuring top competitors. Other screenings and events are planned throughout the summer. Creadon was enthusiastic about the results. "I loved working with Jeff and the team at Filmworkers,” he says. “Jeff has a terrific eye and he’s also really chill. That helps a lot when you hit the 26th mile of the project.”
Harger, meanwhile, is a home-grown talent. He joined Filmworkers straight out of school and began his career as a dailies colorist working on feature projects served by the company’s film lab. His credits include The Dark Knight and Wanted among others. Over the past few years, he has transitioned to a finishing colorist for commercials and earned high marks from local advertising agencies for his creative flair and discerning eye. His latest efforts include campaigns for Mexico Tourism out of Lapiz, Chicago, (centering on Cabo San Lucas and its recovery from last year’s hurricane) and for McDonald’s via Burrell. Harger is also set to perform final color for Who Gets the Dog?, the latest feature from Reid Brody’s 2DS Productions, starring Alicia Silverstone, directed by Huck Botko and shot by cinematographer Joseph White.
Filmworkers is located at 232 E. Ohio St. Penthouse, Chicago, IL 60611. For more information, call (312) 664-9333 or visit www.filmworkers.com.
