NEXT OF KIN

Born in Cairo in 1960 of Armenian parents, Atom Egoyan was raised in Victoria, graduating from the University of Toronto in 1982 with a degre in international relations. A veritable “wunderkind,” Egoyan began writing at the age of 13 and at 24 he has completed over 10 plays, 5 short films and a TV drama that was aired nationally by the CBC. His latest play, “External Affairs,” is optioned for production in N.Y. NEXT OF KIN is the prolific writer-director's first feature film, a surreal comedy that Egoyan calls “an outlandish fantasy, rooted in realism.” The unhappy son of a wealthy WASP family, Peter (Patrick Tierney) undergoes family therapy session that are videotaped for future study. he latches on to an Armenian family's tapes, the Deryans, who are troubled over the loss of their only son, given out for adoption years ago. Peter passes himself off as the long-lost son and is welcomed into the Deryan family fold. The contrast between the Armenians' warmth and his own cold-fish family convinces Patrick to exchange identities. Complemented by an offbeat vidual style, the witty comedy has disturbing undertones that lend an eerie edge to Peter's new-found happiness. Authentic music and a wonderfully natural, mostly non-pro cast present a vibrant clash of cultures. “. . .In his first feature, Atom Egoyan shows a sure hand at directing actors. . .The scenes in the Armenian community have a full-bodied wit. . .” -Variety “. . .An absorbing, unconventional drama which inspires the viewers' emotional involvement with the characters and the story. . .a 'must see.'” -Monday Magazine (Victoria) -USA Premiere-