Art, comedy, and creative chaos collide in Not an Artist, the latest indie feature from filmmakers Alexi Pappas and Jeremy Teicher. Set to premiere digitally on January 31 via Utopia, the film offers a quirky satire of artist residency programs and the lengths some will go to unlock their creative potential—or risk losing it altogether.
The comedy follows a young artist (played by Pappas) who secures a coveted spot in a prestigious residency program led by the enigmatic and eccentric patron known as “The Abbott,” portrayed by none other than Wu-Tang Clan legend RZA. The program’s goal? Push artists to their creative limits, even if it means abandoning art forever. But when an unexpected outsider (Matt Walsh) arrives, the delicate balance of the retreat is hilariously disrupted.
The cast also includes Cleopatra Coleman, Haley Joel Osment, Ciara Bravo, Rosalind Chao, Betsy Sodaro, and Dan Bakkedahl. Walsh, best known for his work on Veep, co-wrote the script with Pappas and Teicher, bringing his signature comedic touch to the project.
Not an Artist premiered at the 2023 Austin Film Festival and draws comparisons to offbeat classics like Art School Confidential and Running with Scissors.
RZA continues to showcase his versatility in Hollywood, with credits that range from scoring films like Kill Bill: Vol. 1 to directing features such as The Man with the Iron Fists. His portrayal of “The Abbott” adds another fascinating role to his repertoire.
Utopia, the indie distributor behind critically acclaimed projects like Divinity and We’re All Going to the World’s Fair, is producing the film in association with Amasia Entertainment and The Ranch Productions. Ahead of its digital release, Not an Artist will host a special preview event on January 27 at Los Angeles’ Dynasty Typewriter theater.
Check out the trailer below and get ready to explore the hilarious—and sometimes absurd—world of creative expression with Not an Artist. Will this be your next indie obsession?
