Six Nominated at Catalina Film Festival for NOT AN Artist

The Catalina Film Festival has announced its 2024 nominees, and among them, Gata—best known for his role on FX's Dave—has been recognized with a Best Actor nomination for his performance in NOT AN Artist, according to an email shared by the actor on X. This indie feature is a powerful exploration of creative struggle, directed by writing duo Alexi Pappas and Jeremy Teicher. The film has secured six major nominations, including Best US Feature and Best Director.

The film follows a young woman, played by Pappas, who is accepted into an exclusive artist residency. Backed by a wealthy and mysterious benefactor known only as "The Abbott" (played by RZA), the program pushes its participants to overcome creative blocks or face the harsh ultimatum of quitting the arts forever. As Pappas' character dives into her project, her father (Morgan Walsh), a telemedicine physician drifting through America’s National Parks, arrives at her residency unexpectedly, complicating her journey. The film deftly balances personal growth with familial tension, keeping viewers captivated.

A co-production between Utopia Media and Amasia Entertainment, NOT AN Artist showcases stellar performances by seasoned improv actors Dan Bakkedahl, Paul Lieberstein, Morgan Walsh, and Betsy Sodaro. The on-screen chemistry, bolstered by improvised dialogue, brings an authenticity that has resonated with audiences and critics alike. Filmed at Camp Conrad Chinnock near Big Bear, California, and adhering to SAG-AFTRA Covid protocols, this heartfelt indie drama is a testament to the power of creativity in the face of adversity.