Life is funny sometimes, especially when something sets you
apart from normal. Somehow the story of “The Station Agent,” a
magnificent, low-budget film receiving nationwide distribution from
Miramax, has followed a similarly strange and unexpected path to
find recognition that its characters trek through to discover each
other.
- John Becic
- Courtesy of Miramax
I thought she died.
Mary Jane Skalski, a University graduate and independent film
producer, labored with the film from its beginning stages.
Traveling to New York City after college, her career took her down
an unexpected trail. She began producing on the east coast indie
circuit, her first feature credit for work on Edward Burns’ “The
Brother’s McMullen.”
After five years functioning under various producer labels for
marginally received films such as Tori Spelling’s feature attempt
“Trick” and the Frank Whaley-directed “The Jimmy Show,” Skalski
landed a producing gig on “The Station Agent.” A small but touching
story about a hermit-like dwarf, it explores human relationships by
uniquely focusing on a trio that seems to exist outside the social
sphere, which drew her talents to the fray.
With the lead male roles filled by usually supporting cast
members Peter Dinklage and Bobby Cannavale joined by the extremely
talented Patricia Clarkson, production finished and “Agent” made
its way into festivals. Having now garnered such awards as the
Sundance Film Festival’s Audience Award, Special Jury Prize and
Waldo Salt Screenwriting Award, Skalski’s project is poised for
theatrical success and already has a strong critical support.
Of course, the surprising success of “The Station Agent” hasn’t
halted Skalski’s career in the least. Her next film “Mysterious
Skin” is currently in the post-production stages and her
now-recognized presence in the independent world will certainly
lead to bigger and even more lauded projects.
Though the path she has taken circuitously lead her into the
spotlight, she has certainly set herself apart by becoming
successful in an often tumultuous and disheartening independent
film world.