Even Hollywood can’t take the grassroots out of an Asheville native

Writer/director Nathan Ives is starting a grassroots revolution: He’s personally touring the Southeast with his new romantic comedy film, It’s Not You, It’s Me. For one night only, Tuesday Nov. 18, at 7 p.m., Asheville residents can watch the film and chat with Ives at Carolina Cinemas.

Ives describes the film as “a romantic comedy for people who don’t like romantic comedies; it’s a brutally honest look at relationships and breakups.” The film stars Vivica Fox (Kill Bill 2), Joelle Carter (Justified), and Ross McCall (Band of Brothers). “Vivica Fox was a big score for us,” Ives says. “She legitimized the project in Hollywood’s eyes, and attracted other actors.” Ives got the script into Fox’s hands through a casting director. Even though the producers weren’t able to offer her a lot of money, Fox resonated with the script and signed on. 

Tuesday night’s pay-what-you-want screening is part of Ives’ novel approach to film distribution. He believes a sustainable business model for independent filmmakers must include face-to-face meetings with fans. He attends each screening, does a Q&A, and often goes out for a beer with moviegoers afterwards. Inspired by Kevin Kelly’s article, “1,000 True Fans,” Ives decided to seek out those who truly enjoy his work, connect with them one on one, and build a fan foundation for future films.

“I love making films,” Ives says. “My goal is to pay back my investors so I can make the next one.” The producers hope to recoup the $193,000 budget from movie ticket proceeds and sales on iTunes. 

Ives grew up in Asheville and attended Guilford College in Greensboro, N.C. After graduating college in 1994, he moved to Los Angeles. “My dream would be to have a second home in Asheville and replicate Woody Allen’s career,” Ives says. “Make one independent film each year, and even shoot one in Asheville. It’s visually stunning.”

To reserve your space at the screening and view a trailer of the film, go here.

 

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About Toni Sherwood
Toni Sherwood is an award-winning filmmaker who enjoys writing articles, screenplays, and fiction. She appreciates the dog-friendly, artistic community of Asheville.

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