37 Magazine
Internationally renowned artist Sir Daniel Winn will once again set the art and film worlds abuzz. In his upcoming trilogy he unveils his latest magnum opus to the world. Sir Daniel Winn, a maestro of visual storytelling, is set to continue his exploration of life’s most profound questions through the medium of film as a canvas. The Existential Surrealism Series promises to be an impressive spectacle encompassing a trilogy of short films and a feature-length film. Through his production company (WS Productions) the series will encapsulate the eternal cycle of birth, life and death in a cosmic symphony of cinematic brilliance.
At the core of Winn’s creative vision is his concept of Existential Surrealism. The films are inspired by Winn’s actual works as a master artist as well as are symbolically showcased. The series will embark on a significant undertaking in its pursuit of universality, aiming to eliminate dialogue and rely on visuals, sound and music. Despite the demanding nature of this endeavour it will allow the series to transcend language barriers. The silent films will maintain its allure by adopting an inventive approach that surpasses conventional storytelling methods. Winn carries the weight of the entire film as the sole performer on-screen, with no dialogue. The film’s message hinges on Winn’s immersive performance, requiring him to convey a wide range of emotions so the viewer can understand his intended message.
Sir Daniel Winn: A Maestro of Artistic Expression
Winn’s unique artistic style, which he calls Existential Surrealism, is the foundation upon which the film series is built. Winn’s philosophy uses visual language to explore the concept of duality, emphasizing that the absence of opposing factors would render our existence meaningless. His approach seamlessly blends fine art, sculptures, painting and film that delves into the profound questions about the meaning of life and the intricacies of human existence. His art is known for its deep philosophical underpinnings that weaves in deep concepts of existentialism, metaphysics and the human condition. This distinctive style is not just about creating visuals, it’s about evoking a visceral response that makes viewers ponder their own existence and the universe around them.
A Cosmic Trilogy: Ectropy, Creation, Entropy
WS Productions and SuperCine proudly presents this trio of artistic cinematic short films that promises to be a journey not just through the narrative it weaves, but through the very essence of existence itself. The Existential Surrealism Series is a metaphysical exploration, unfolding in three parts: Ectropy, Creation and Entropy. The trio also metaphorically represent the core stages of creation with every frame rich with intricate symbolism that delves into philosophy, religion, science, mathematics and spirituality.
Ectropy is the prequel to the already acclaimed Creation (released in 2023). It symbolizes the birth of order from chaos, akin to The Big Bang Theory. The world is believed to have been brought into existence through ectropy, beginning with the Garden of Eden and culminating in the creation of Adam and Eve. Creation is a silent masterpiece that moved audiences around the world, delving into the emergence of life and beauty from destruction. The final chapter, Entropy depicts the inevitable descent from order back into chaos, completing the continuous cycle.
Ectropy: From Chaos to Order
Directed by Jordan Schulz. Executive Producer Randall J. Slavin. Produced by Andrew Creme & Jordan Schulz. Screenplay by Jordan Schulz & Andrew Creme. Starring Sir Daniel Winn & Vivienne Lucille.
The prelude to this trilogy is Ectropy, a visual symphony that narrates the universe’s explosive birth, akin to the physical theory of the Big Bang. From the cosmic explosion of the Big Bang to the dynamic clusters of particles in motion, the film captures the essence of chaos in a visually striking manner, mirroring the swift flow of thoughts in our minds. Ectropy has been digitally filmed on a soundstage, utilizing cutting-edge technology and custom-built sets. The studio serves as the creative hub where the intricate cave walls to the lush forestry have been meticulously constructed and painstakingly brought to life.
Ectropy takes the audience on a contemplative journey through existentialism in an Edenesque setting. The film follows the internal and external struggles of The Artist (played brilliantly by Winn), a member of the Timeless Presence species who struggles to see his potential. While traversing the cosmic expanse, he meets Gaia, an otherworldly child played beautifully by Vivienne Lucille. Together, they set out on a quest to intertwine the threads of the universe. and restore balance to the realms that had been disrupted by chaos. The Artist confronts his own insecurities and uncertainties about his creative abilities while seeking to portray the raw magnificence of the natural world through his paintings.
Impeccable performances shines throughout the film, evoking so much emotion. Through visual and innovative storytelling, the film explores the art of letting go and the emotional trials that come from self-imposed challenges. The film will undoubtedly portray the profound symbolic relationship between humanity and Mother Nature, emphasizing how our choices, yearnings and aspirations intertwine.
Ectropy intertwines themes of existentialism, creativity as well as the intricate dance between chaos and order. It will also explore psychological concepts such as the inner child, fear of failure, self discovery, loss and the imperfections of life. The film’s visual and metaphorical richness invites audiences to contemplate the profound interconnection between the artist, nature and the eternal cycle of creation.
Creation: Creation Begins Where Destruction Ends
Directed by Angel E. Vera. Executive Producer Randall J. Slavin. Cinematographer Jordan Schulz. Producer Georges N. Chamchoum. Starring Sir Daniel Winn.
Creation celebrates the circle of life by depicting the emergence of humanity and the natural world. From the destruction of The Artist’s sculptures to their transformation into organic human bodies, it demonstrates the birth of Adam and Eve. Semiotically showcased in the film are Winn’s two thousand pound life-size Quantum Mechanics: Femme and Homme sculptures from his Dark Matter Series further highlighting the creator/artist metaphor. Creation brilliantly demonstrates that our shared connection to the elements holds the key to unraveling the philosophical enigma of universal truth.
Creation was filmed on location in Hollywood, Big Sur, Orange County and Joshua Tree. The film serves as a metaphor for the innate ability for creation that is present in each of us. Our hands enable us to mold, our minds to imagine things that have not yet materialized, and our languages are sufficiently robust to convey and comprehend abstract concepts. As life forms we have the ability to write, speak, invent, paint, sculpt… create. We possess the capability to not only adjust to our environment but also to modify it according to our preferences. We can shape our world and our reality. In our hands lies the power to actively create our responses to the influences that encircle us, instead of being passive observers.
‘Creation begins where destruction ends’ is the tagline of the film and the essential concept. Winn describes the film, saying, “Creation is all about contrast. Light and dark, life and death, hot and cold, arid and lush, organic and inorganic, black and white, masculine and feminine. The dichotomies of these opposing factors and the fact that one without the other would have no significance is an underlying idea expressed in the film. The style involves contrasts and counterpoints and examines the physical and spiritual dichotomy of existence. It juxtaposes the idea of a universal, creative divinity against the concept of free will and self-determination by recognizing divinity as the genesis of autonomy and acknowledging our responsibility for universally constructive action.”
Entropy: From Order to Chaos
In the last instalment of the trilogy, Entropy portrays the inevitable decay and return to chaos; a powerful statement on the transient roots of existence. Where there was once order, now becomes chaos. Entropy is the reverse of Ectropy, with the cycle starting all over again. The concept of Entropy signifies the shift from order to chaos, signifying the ruin of the Garden of Eden and humankind. The world erupts in a violent explosion, obliterating everything and reverting back to a state of chaos. The explosion connects it to Ectropy, where the Big Bang recreates life, thus perpetuating the cyclical essence of existence.
Metaphorically, the act of creation can set off a whirlwind of activity as you navigate the process of sharing and curating it. The completion of art, regardless of its final form, often invites a time of contemplation. For some artists, there’s a lingering sense of melancholy that follows the completion of a creative project, leaving them feeling somewhat drained and empty. Yet, the creative work is not a finality; as it won’t be much time before the entire cycle begins again.
Creation The Movie: An Artistic Culmination
The feature-length film will continue this artistic and existential journey. The trilogy is a precursor to Winn’s grander vision, Creation The Movie (slated for 2026). This feature film is poised to be a dramatic and profound extension of the themes explored in the three short films.
Creation first premiered at the Asian World Film Festival in Los Angeles in 2022. Since then the short film has garnered international critical acclaim and recognition including Best Long Format Short Film at the Experimental Dance & Music Film Festival, Best Short Film at the Montreal Film Festival and Best Cinematography at the Venice Short Film Festival. These accolades are a testament to the film’s impact, the filmmakers skills and Winn’s unique artistic vision.
The concept of Creation delves into the intricate complexities of life, revealing to us the hidden marvels that lie beyond our limited perception. A masterpiece of this caliber calls for a particular standard of precision and complexity that cannot be contained within an 18-minute short film. The quest to understand the meaning of life through film has been ongoing, but this particular approach, which uses the analogy of the artist, is unique and distinct. The motion picture promises to be a riveting experience, where viewers who have journeyed through the Existential Surrealism Series will find deeper meaning and understanding in the two-hour cinematic exploration.
A Global Cinematic Event
The trilogy and the ensuing feature film, are the embodiment of Winn’s philosophy and a celebration of his vision. These sophisticated, cerebral and intellectual films are creating a visual representation that vividly illustrates the universe’s origin, the meaning of our existence and the creative process. His vision, deeply rooted in fine art, sculpture and painting, finds a new canvas in the realm of cinematic art. These films are not merely narratives; they are visual poems, each frame a testament to Winns genius in capturing the profound truths of our life.
As we anticipate the release of Ectropy in the fall of 2024, filming will commence in the spring of this year and will premiere at international film circuits worldwide in the fall. With screenings at renowned film festivals like the Asian World Film Festival and the Stars Asian International Film Festival in Beverly Hills, the excitement is palpable. This is not just a film release; it’s a global event — a celebration of art, life and the endless cycles of the universe.
Join the Odyssey of Existence
Ectropy, Creation and Entropy are more than just a cinematic experience; they are a journey through the vast tapestry of the universe, as envisioned by one of the most brilliant artistic minds of our time. Sir Daniel Winn invites us to join him in this odyssey of art, philosophy and cinema. As we embark on this journey, we are not just viewers but participants in a grand exploration of existence, creativity and the human spirit. Get ready to be part of this magnificent adventure, where each film is a chapter in the never-ending story of the universe. These films will continue to inspire future generations.
Filmmakers
WS Productions is a pioneering production company dedicated to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression through film. Led by Sir Daniel Winn and Randall J. Slavin, the company aims to create visually immersive experiences that challenge conventional storytelling methods and provoke thought on the human condition and the cosmos.
Andrew Creme is a screenwriter, producer and actor. He holds dual roles as both an executive producer and a producer for SuperCine®. Night Terror, Overnights and Scream: The TV Series are just a few of the projects that have solidified his reputation in the industry.
Georges N. Chamchoum is an Emmy-winning producer. He co-founded the Cinergy Film Festival, whose objective is to promote and champion film-making talent around the world. In 2017, Georges was named one of the hundred most influential Lebanese in the world, and in 2018 he received the prestigious Dari Award from the South Korean Ministry of Culture on behalf of the AWFF for bridging the culture of Korea with that of the United States.
Jordan Schulz is the Founder and CEO of SuperCine® that has pioneered advancements in post and production services. Recent accolades include two best-in-cinematography awards from the Venice Short Awards and Central Coast Film Festival, affirming Schulz’s status as an acclaimed artist in the industry.
Randall J. Slavin is an executive producer, CEO of WS Productions and proprietor of Winn Slavin Fine Art, the premiere provider of international fine art.
Angel E. Vera of veraONEproductions is an award-winning cinematographer and director. Angel is passionately focused on creating content for documentaries and is especially renowned for his aerial content. In 2018 he was recognized as one of the top three cinematographers in the drone category at the Los Angeles Film Festival.
Sir Daniel Winn is a prolific contemporary artist, fine art curator and gallerist. He is founder of Winn Slavin Fine Art Gallery, one of the most prestigious galleries in the world with locations in Beverly Hills, Shanghai and Ho Chi Minh City. As an artist, his work has been showcased alongside the likes of Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso. He is the Chairman of The Academy of Fine Art Foundation and a celebrated philanthropist. In 2018, he was knighted with the honorary title of ‘Sir’ by Prince Waldemar of Schaumburg-Lippe in recognition of his philanthropic contributions.
- Los Angeles, California
- Publication: 37 Magazine
- Writer/Editor-In-Chief: Jamee Beth Livingston
- Publisher: Livingston Publishing
- Publicist: Rick Krusty, MWPR Inc.
The cover is a masterpiece itself. It visually infuses the thought-provoking theme of upcoming epic film “Ectropy”. The transparent palette of kaleidoscopic paint invokes the chaos of the universe. Behind the abstract chaos emerges the creative energy, a vision of forming, shaping and transforming the world. Metamorphically, we are all endowed with an impetus to paint, sculpt or create our own microcosm in the vast universe. Get ready to embark on the cosmic odyssey. Thanks Sir Daniel Winn for a positive and optimistic vision.