Matthew Harrison

It took Matthew Harrison a bit longer than some to get started in a real way as a filmmaker, but once he got the inspiration--and some financing--he began to make films that earned him not just the notice of Hollywood and the critics, but the William Morris Agency as well. Harrison's first film, made for $10,000, was "Spare Me" (1993) and concerned a pro bowler looking for his long-lost father. Hollywood called in 1995 after the release of "Rhythm Thief," a film made in 11 days for just $11,000--and brought in ahead of schedule and under budget. Filmed in black and white on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, "Rhythm Thief" told the story of a music bootlegger who can't get his life together. Based on a two-page outline Harrison wrote while editing his first film, "Rhythm Thief" was eventually co-written with Kevin Corrigan. The film, awarded a jury prize at the 1995 Sundance Film Festival, was applauded for its visual effects, such as a shot in a party scene of people dancing in reflection across the lead character's face. Following its release, Harrison came under the wing of Martin Scorsese, who helped him raise the $3 million for his next independent effort, "Kicked in the Head" which was scheduled for production in 1996.