Solstice Movie, 25th Anniversary
Last night at the Music Box Theater in Chicago, the premier of Solstice (a Christmas movie) in celebration of its 25th Anniversary. The movie which was broadcast ed on Lifetime nationwide in 1994 is a Chicago based film, written and directed by Jerry Vasilatos. Its screening at the Music Box was years in the making, considering that one of the most important scenes which was a turning point for the main character was shot at that very location 25 years prior.
All who attended yesterday's premier not only got to see the film in its full restorative glory, but enjoyed the Christmas show that the theater is famous for; including performances by the Music Box carolers, and a sing along with Santa Clause.
This is a long-standing tradition that has held many years in the Chicago neighborhood and an obvious inspiration in the film itself.
The mini documentary presented at the beginning of the night, showcased the 2 year process involved in digitally restoring the film from the original camera negative in 2K to a point where “it looks better than it did in 1993 when it was completed.” says Jerry.
He has also added a completely new musical score composed by Balint Sapszon and performed by the Budapest Scoring Orchestra. The music is emotionally inspiring and has added an element to the film that was missing for the past 25 years. Watching the process and listening to the interview with Balint Sapszon, it is evident that the musical score is a reflection of Jerry Vasilatos' passion and vision.
After the screening of the behind-the-scenes featurette titled, Spirits of Christmas Past and the Making of Solistice, the audience had the opportunity for Q&A with the members of Jerry's team, whether it was the Production Designer or Location Scout, to actors.
Included was a Toys for Tots campaign. Attendees were encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys to add to the collection box that will be presented to Toys for Tots.
We are grateful to the Enosis board members that represented the organization on the 25th Anniversary of a film that reflects the true Chicago of 1990's that many of us ponder with fond memories. We are glad to show our support of a film that is filled with the spirit and vision of Greek-American Chicago native like Jerry Vasilatos.