John Sayles

John Sayles, born in Schenectady (1950), is one of America’s original and most respected independent filmmakers. Beginning with “Return of the Secaucus Seven” in 1980, Sayles continues to define the independent movement with films including “Matewan” (1987), “The Secret of Roan Inish” (1994), “Sunshine State” (2002), and “Honeydripper” (2007). His films “Passion Fish” (1992) and “Lone Star” (1996) were both nominated for Oscars for Best Original Screenplay.

Sayles’ work consistently addresses issues of ethnicity, gender and class, maintaining the sense that “people are connected, whether the realize it or not.” Truthful, complex explorations of both the personal and the political recur throughout his films.

“Silver City,” a satirical political drama/murder mystery, was premiered upstate at Proctors Theatre, Schenectady, in September 2004.