A major snowstorm hit NYC two days before the exterior forest scenes were to begin. See more »
Crazy Credits
The Director extends his deepest gratitude to Steven Newman of Columbus Circle Cab Company, NYC, for allowing two weeks use of an empty building and tolerating the two years that followed. Thank you. See more »
Giovanni Sanseviero has created a truly unique film that uses theatrical devices and a limited amount of dialogue to tell a complex, non-linear story in which the building of the title allows visitors to face buried traumatic experiences. Few first films possess the insight, depth, visual artistry or genuine compassion evident in The Empty Building. The story does not unfold in a straightforward manner, for neither does anyone's personal healing process. Flashback settings are artificially constructed within the building, suggesting the architectural aspect of recalling past incidents.
Sanseviero is not afraid to take his time as a storyteller and avoids obvious methods of exposition. As an actor, Sanseviero honestly portrays Benny's emotional struggle without resorting to any obvious theatrics. His performance matches the subtlety and depth of the film surrounding it. Yet Sanseviero is not out to impress. He has a story to tell and engages the viewer with this need.
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Giovanni Sanseviero has created a truly unique film that uses theatrical devices and a limited amount of dialogue to tell a complex, non-linear story in which the building of the title allows visitors to face buried traumatic experiences. Few first films possess the insight, depth, visual artistry or genuine compassion evident in The Empty Building. The story does not unfold in a straightforward manner, for neither does anyone's personal healing process. Flashback settings are artificially constructed within the building, suggesting the architectural aspect of recalling past incidents.
Sanseviero is not afraid to take his time as a storyteller and avoids obvious methods of exposition. As an actor, Sanseviero honestly portrays Benny's emotional struggle without resorting to any obvious theatrics. His performance matches the subtlety and depth of the film surrounding it. Yet Sanseviero is not out to impress. He has a story to tell and engages the viewer with this need.