TCFF 2024 Spotlight: Out of Time

2024 marks 15 years of the Twin Cities Film Fest, which runs October 17-26 at the Marcus West End Cinema at the Shops at West End in St. Louis Park.

Nearly 150 films – including features, shorts, animation, and documentaries – will screen over the course of the festival, both in-person and online (through TCFF’s Streams platform). Additionally, directors, producers, and actors will walk the red carpet, present their films, and take part in Q&As and discussions about their work.

Over the course of TCFF 2024, we’ll be chatting with some of those filmmakers and stars to find out more about what they’re bringing to the TCFF screens.

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Film:                                            Out of Time (tickets/info)

In-person screening:             5:30 p.m., Wednesday, October 23

Filmmaker in attendance:            Yes    

Streams Pass:                                Yes

Having written and produced three short films and a TV series (and producing a number of others) in the last six years, Alison Guessou is ready to debut her latest work – the feature film “Out of Time” – at TCFF 2024. With the film set for both TCFF Streams and an in-person screening on October 23, Alison took some time to chat about her film.

Q: Tell us a little bit about your film.

“Out of Time” is a gripping drama about Mona Cress, a mother battling to protect her son while navigating the dark and corrupt world of the pharmaceutical industry. Set against the backdrop of corporate greed and personal sacrifice, it’s a story about resilience, justice, and how far a mother will go to save her child. It explores the tension between doing what’s right and the harsh realities of a world driven by profit.

Q: Now tell us something about it that we might not be able to glean from the trailer or description.

One aspect you may not fully grasp from the trailer is the deep emotional core of the film. While it focuses on the power struggles and high stakes of corporate corruption, at its heart, it’s about a mother’s unwavering love for her son. The personal moments of Mona’s internal conflict, her battle with her past, and the sacrifices she must make are what drive the film, giving it a raw, emotional weight.

Q: If someone is only going to see one film at the Twin Cities Film Fest, why should it be this one?

“Out of Time” is a film that doesn’t just tell a story – it challenges the audience. It sheds light on issues like pharmaceutical greed and corporate corruption, topics that have a real impact on our lives. But at its core, it’s a human story, one that deals with personal redemption and the lengths we go to for the ones we love. If you’re looking for a film that will not only entertain but also spark conversation, “Out of Time” is that film.

Q: Prior to TCFF, where has the film screened, and what has the response been so far?

“Out of Time” had its premiere at the Twin Cities Black Film Festival, where it was the opening night film. The response has been overwhelmingly positive – audiences were engaged with the story and moved by Mona’s journey. It’s been an honor to share this film, and the excitement around it has really affirmed the importance of the themes we explore.

Q: What was it that drew you to submit your film for the Twin Cities Film Fest?

The Twin Cities Film Fest is such a well-respected platform for independent films, especially ones that tackle socially relevant issues. As a filmmaker based in Minnesota, it felt like the perfect venue to showcase “Out of Time” and engage with a community that values diverse storytelling. The festival’s focus on socially conscious cinema aligns perfectly with the message of the film.

Q: What’s next for your film after this festival?

After the Twin Cities Film Fest, we’re looking forward to submitting the film to a wider range of festivals across the country, and we’re also exploring distribution options to make the film accessible to a larger audience. We’re excited to see where this journey takes us and to continue sharing Mona’s story with new viewers.