Independent filmmaker Thor Moreno is creating quite a stir in the film world with his latest mind-bending thriller, “SCHISM.” Set to debut at the American Film Market (AFM) on November 8th, 2024, the movie has already caught the eye of critics and movie-goers alike, sparking intense discussions online and at film festivals.
Moreno’s filmmaking journey is a testament to perseverance. Over the past two decades, he’s carved out a niche for himself, becoming known for his knack for crafting complex, character-driven narratives that leave audiences pondering long after the credits roll.
His unique vision has earned him a spot at over 38 international festivals, racking up an impressive 24 nominations and 11 wins along the way. Perhaps most notably, Moreno took home the coveted Best Director award at the Cannes World Film Festival – no small feat for an independent filmmaker.
In a recent sit-down, Thor Moreno opened up about his path to “SCHISM” and his thoughts on filmmaking:
Can you walk us through your journey from your early days in filmmaking to the creation of SCHISM?
I started out making music videos for local bands with the hopes of learning how to cross over to film. It took about 10 years before I was able to quit my full time job. Fortunately for me, this is been my day job now so I’m really lucky to be where I am.
SCHISM has been accepted into 21 out of 28 submitted film festivals. How does this reception compare to your previous works?
I’ve been very lucky and won a few awards doing this. Each film feels fantastic. It’s really wonderful when people appreciate your art.
Your films often explore provocative themes. How does SCHISM continue or perhaps diverge from this trend?
I don’t really think about that at all, to be honest. I’m just hoping that a good movie comes out of our hard work. The theme or tone of the story is inconsequential.
With the global release scheduled after AFM, what are your hopes for SCHISM’s impact on audiences worldwide?
I hope it scares the shit out of people and they watch it a few times so that they can discuss what it really means.
The Film Threat review gave SCHISM an 8.5/10. How do you feel about critical reception at this stage of your career?
One word: GRATEFUL.
SCHISM’s trailer has garnered attention. How do you think it represents your evolution as a filmmaker?
I hope that with any project I do, I can look back and see discipline and growth as a storyteller.
Looking at your body of work leading up to SCHISM, what aspect of your filmmaking are you most proud of?
I know how hard it is to make a living in this industry, and I am living my dream doing what I love.
Moreno’s candid responses offer a glimpse into the mind of a filmmaker who’s clearly passionate about his craft. His gratitude for the recognition and his commitment to growth shine through, painting a picture of an artist who’s never content to rest on his laurels.
“SCHISM” looks to be Moreno’s most ambitious project yet. The film follows Nola Riggs, a young woman grappling with mental illness, who finds herself in a remote psychiatric facility known for its cutting-edge treatments. As Nola’s treatment progresses, she’s plagued by unsettling visions that blur the lines between what’s real and what’s imagined. It’s a psychological rollercoaster that forces her to confront her deepest fears head-on.
The fog-shrouded backdrop of Northern California’s Lost Coast serves as the perfect setting for this psychological mindbender. It’s no wonder “SCHISM” has already been snatched up by 21 out of the 28 international film festivals it was submitted to. The buzz is real, with the well-respected Film Threat giving it a stellar 8.5 out of 10 and dubbing it a “must-watch.”
As the countdown to the AFM premiere ticks on, anticipation for “SCHISM” continues to build. Film buffs eager for a sneak peek can check out the trailer on YouTube, which offers dark glimpses into Moreno’s latest cinematic puzzle.
With “SCHISM,” Thor Moreno seems poised to cement his status as a true innovator of independent cinema. As the film industry holds its collective breath for the global release later this year, one thing’s for sure – “SCHISM” is shaping up to be a wild ride that showcases Moreno’s growth as a filmmaker and his unwavering commitment to pushing the envelope of what cinema can be.
