A closer look at ARTIFEX
Artifex takes audiences on a journey where history, myth, and the supernatural collide. Set to premiere at the Utah International Film Festival on January 9, 2025, this film is a visual and emotional experience that transcends time. At its heart lies the immortal Michelangelo, a Renaissance man in every sense of the word. Portrayed as a genius polymath tethered to his past, Michelangelo navigates a supernatural world while grappling with the isolation of his extraordinary condition. “Living beyond his time isolates him,” Alan Lucchetti, the film’s director, explains. “His friendship with someone unaware of his true identity adds emotional tension, balancing the joy of connection with the pain of concealment.”
The genesis of Artifex can be traced back to a line from Irving Stone’s The Agony and the Ecstasy: “God asked, ‘Whom have I on Earth to speak for me? I had best create another species, one apart. I will call him Artist.’” This idea, coupled with Alan’s lifelong admiration for Michelangelo, formed the foundation of the story. “His era of rebirth and transformation mirrors our modern age—a time of incredible innovation tempered by disillusionment and distrust,” Alan shares. Blending history with the supernatural, Artifex explores themes of identity, legacy, and the transcendent power of art.
The film’s visual style reflects its narrative duality—Renaissance-inspired compositions meet modern color palettes and urban settings. Working closely with Joe Olivas, the film’s cinematographer, Alan developed a distinct look that integrates dynamic compositions with modern backdrops, such as Utah’s hip-hop studio, Hiveminded. “The visuals had to feel timeless, almost mystical,” Alan explains. “We aimed to enhance the film’s mysterious and supernatural atmosphere without relying heavily on VFX.”
Blending historical accuracy with mythological elements posed its own challenges. “Authenticity began with a deep respect for historical context,” says Alan. The team prioritized performance-driven scenes over elaborate effects, ensuring the narrative stayed grounded. Additionally, Utah’s filmmaking community played a pivotal role in the film’s creation. “Their creativity and generosity were unparalleled,” Alan remarks, expressing gratitude for local collaborators like White Rabbit Productions and Grizzly Smith Media.
Alan’s extensive industry background informed Artifex’s storytelling and production value. The film’s visual rhythm draws on cinematic influences ranging from the neorealism of Bicycle Thieves to the dynamic camera work of Iñárritu and Herzog. These elements, combined with intellectual montages and stylistic nods to Scorsese, create a narrative that feels both familiar and distinctly original.
As all filmmakers can relate, sometime we have our surprises on set. Alan recalls a particularly challenging scene: “What worked in theory looked awkward and ridiculous on camera. We all had a good laugh before reworking the blocking to achieve something both visually and narratively compelling.”
As Artifex prepares for its world premiere, Alan remains deeply appreciative of the collaborative spirit that brought the film to life. “Thanks to the incredible mentors and professionals in Utah, Artifex became more than I ever imagined.”
Join Alan Lucchetti and the team at the Experience Event Center on January 9, 2025, for the world premiere of Artifex. Don’t miss this extraordinary exploration of history, myth, and the supernatural. Get your tickets HERE.
