Highway 10, a burgeoning force in the indie film scene, made a striking entrance at SXSW with the debut of two films: “The Saviors” and “Wishful Thinking.” The company, established by long-time friends Matt Smith and Dan Gedman, aims to carve a niche in Hollywood with unique storytelling and ambitious content. This article delves into the journey and aspirations of Highway 10 as it showcases its moviemaking ambitions to a global audience.
The Beginnings of a Creative Partnership
Matt Smith and Dan Gedman’s friendship traces back to their formative years in Kansas City and was cemented in their fraternity days at the University of Kansas. “We both loved movies,” says Gedman. Their shared passion for cinema was nurtured in Lawrence, where they often frequented an art theater that featured films like “Hoop Dreams,” “Fargo,” and “Pulp Fiction.” These experiences laid the groundwork for their future endeavors in the film industry.
Highway 10’s Production Debut
Fast forward to the present, and Smith and Gedman have transported their creative pursuits from Kansas to the bustling scene of Austin, Texas. There, they premiered their first two films at SXSW. “The Saviors,” a comedy-thriller, and “Wishful Thinking,” a thought-provoking story about relationship struggles and a potential global collapse, mark the ambitious debut of Highway 10. These films exemplify the company’s mission to produce smaller indie movies with significant stakes.
Ambitious Storytelling and Production Challenges
Highway 10’s films reflect a blend of various cinematic influences. “The Saviors,” inspired by filmmakers like Tarantino and Spielberg, explores themes of immigration and cultural attitudes. Shot in Altadena, it faced unexpected challenges when the location caught fire, highlighting the real-world trials filmmakers sometimes face.
“Wishful Thinking,” filmed in Portland and swiftly completed for SXSW, showcases the talents of Maya Hawke and Lewis Pullman. Directed by Graham Parkes, its production benefited from the close relationship between the writer-director and actor Pullman. “It’s grounded in great performances from wonderful actors telling a relatable story,” says Gedman.
Looking Forward to New Horizons
Highway 10’s name pays homage to the road linking Kansas City and the University of Kansas, symbolizing the journey of Smith and Gedman’s cinematic venture. Despite the dual premieres at SXSW feeling like a milestone, the partners are just getting started. With projects like “When a Stranger Venmos” on the horizon, they are poised to explore new storytelling avenues.
“Dan and I mostly want to give people a good night at the movies,” says Smith. Their focus remains on delivering engaging and thought-provoking film experiences, charting a bold course in the cinematic world with Highway 10’s moviemaking ambitions.
