Iliza Shlesinger on Balancing Stand-Up and Screenwriting: Insights from Sundance Studio
Film Premiere: "Chasing Summer"
Director: Josephine Decker
Screenwriter: Iliza Shlesinger
Premiere Date: Monday, January 26, Eccles Theatre
"Chasing Summer," a compelling narrative directed by Josephine Decker and written by Iliza Shlesinger, explores the tumultuous life of Jamie, portrayed by Shlesinger herself. After enduring the loss of both her job and boyfriend, Jamie returns to her small Texas hometown, where past friendships and summer romances reawaken unresolved feelings and challenges.
The film features a distinguished cast, including Garrett Wareing, Tom Welling, Aimee Garcia, and Cassidy Freeman. It is represented by sales agents UTA and Cinetic.
In reflecting on her transition from stand-up to screenwriting, Shlesinger remarked, “I get to be serious. I get to have stillness… I think with a screenplay, I get to be all of the things that I wish I could be.” She elaborated on the intricacies of creating depth in film, emphasizing her desire to write poignant, introspective moments that extend beyond the punchlines typical of her comedy.
Looking ahead, Shlesinger shared her enthusiasm for future projects, stating, “I have two other scripts… what I would like to see from this is getting to work with more people who are better than I am at things that I don’t do.” Her commitment to collaboration underscores the importance of artistic growth and shared creativity in the industry.
As "Chasing Summer" begins its journey into the cinematic landscape, it promises to resonate with audiences through its authentic storytelling and rich character development.
