EP 107: Knowledge and Consciousness with Director/Writer/Producer Edward Varnie

 In 'Death of a Wizard', Edward Varnie crafts a gripping tale set during the social unrest of the 1960s, where three boys decide to take matters into their own hands and confront the Grand Wizard living in their small southern town. This narrative is more than just a Southern thriller; it’s a raw exploration of identity, violence, and the complex human experience. Known for his thought-provoking storytelling and intellectual depth, Varnie brings an intricate blend of emotional complexity and cinematic visual flair to every project he touches. His work challenges audiences to confront difficult truths, while inviting them into the emotional landscapes of his characters. 

Varnie’s love for storytelling began at a young age, with poetry, spoken word, and comic books fueling his creative drive. His passion blossomed into a career that has seen him direct award-winning films like 'Release', a festival favorite, and *Weight*, which earned The Black Cat Picture Show's Staff Pick Award. A mentor to many, Varnie has worked closely with acclaimed directors like John Adams, Bob Goose, and Peter Bogdanovich, learning the power of storytelling and the importance of deeply examining human relationships. Themes of empathy, trauma, and connection are central to Varnie’s work, as he dives into the complexities of familial ties and the unspoken nuances that define the human experience. 

Varnie is unapologetically authentic in his approach, consistently striving to challenge his audience’s consciousness and push the boundaries of what cinema can achieve. His focus is not just on the story, but on the collaborative process—prioritizing leadership, accountability, and the collective success of the project. Whether directing a feature or writing a genre narrative, Varnie is dedicated to making work that resonates deeply and evokes genuine emotional responses. His creative philosophy is grounded in humility, recognizing that it’s not about ego, but about crafting the best possible story for the audience. 

As a director, Varnie’s vision is unapologetically bold. He’s committed to exploring stories that question societal norms, including the role of violence, trauma, and identity in the lives of men and women of color. His goal is to write narratives that challenge expectations, particularly in the genre space. Varnie’s ultimate aspiration? To craft a unique, original take on iconic characters, like DC’s Lobo, pushing the boundaries of comic book cinema. In all his endeavors, Varnie seeks to ignite conversation, push creative limits, and offer audiences a deeper understanding of the world through the lens of powerful storytelling. 




Edward Varnie's Website: https://directorvarnie.com/

Edward Varnie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edward-varnie-9632a679

Edward Varnie's IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5212162/

Edward Varnie's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/knowledgevarnie/