lystn

Clio burst onto the All American scene with her outstanding 2015 and 2016 Official Selections, “Stranded” and “Congratulations Abigail”- the former a riveting drama about a young dancer traumatized by failure and insecurity as she travels to a competition that consumes and overwhelms her entire physical and psychological universe. The film earned her our Best Cinematography Award for its striking imagery of a desolate setting that aptly reflects and supports the protagonist’s character and conflict through a manifestation of realistic, symbolic obstacles. The film is a powerful testament to the show don’t tell principle - almost completely devoid of dialogue, the narrative evolves as a meditation, fueled by growing sense of desperation that invites the viewer into the character’s agonizing and stubborn internal nightmare - all framed, both literally and metaphorically, by the dual nemesis of dance and the stranded bus - both vehicles for her path to redemption. The maturity and patience of the entire journey is a profoundly tragic and beautiful example of the weight of what the cinematic experience can be - something quite rare considering that Clio was just finding her wings as a visual storyteller. Needless-to-say, we were impressed by Clio’s gifts and excited to follow her burgeoning future…

Clio’s talents ultimately led her to New York’s Columbia University, making it easy for us to chart her trajectory and stay in touch. Her skills and proximity prompted us to invite her to capture the festival experience for several years as our official videographer - no doubt many of you crossed paths with her at the event and viewed her work in our annual highlight reels. It has been our pleasure to know, work and admire Clio’s craft and work ethic and…

For more info: www.cliogevirtz.com/