Thomas Kolicko is the director of Crafting A Nation, which screened for the first time in California at Green Flash to coincide with the beginning of American Craft Beer Week on May 13.
How did you first get interested in filmmaking?
I started off in the action sports industry about seven years ago. As I progressed with that style of filmmaking, I learned that I wanted to continue my education to learn more about the art of filmmaking, mainly focusing on story and character development. Also, I wanted a good excuse to move westward, with Colorado now being my home.
What do you feel is the main message of this film?
Crafting A Nation isn’t a beer film, necessarily; instead, the subject of the film is craft brewing. The message of the film is intended to be inspirational. I wanted to create a documentary that takes the audience on a journey to better understand how hard work, passion, and determination will pay off. In the case of craft brewing, all of that hard work is helping in many ways to rebuild the US economy, literally one beer at a time. I would like audiences to leave the film feeling inspired to pursue their own dreams, and understanding what it will take to make that happen.
What breweries and beer bars did you visit while in San Diego? Which stuck out to you?
I freakin’ love San Diego. I’m planning to return on vacation once the film is available for large US distribution, which will be soon. I had a long list of places to visit going into San Diego, and I wish I had more time to discover the smaller and newer breweries in town. Here was my order of touring: Pizza Port Ocean Beach, Alpine, Green Flash, Stone, The Lost Abbey, AleSmith, Ballast Point, Societe, Blind Lady, and Toronado. Hess was closed when I went by, which I was super bummed about. Needless to say, both of my bags weighted 49.5 lbs flying back to Denver.
How would you compare San Diego’s beer scene with others around the country?
It was amazing! It was interesting to go to a beer city that has such a well-developed beer culture. I’ve been to Portland, Asheville, Denver, and Chicago, which are all similar in local market shares. What I love about craft beer, especially in San Diego, is that it’s what makes the city unique. From the artwork on the walls, to the ingredients in the beer, each tap room represents that region with its own character and personality. I’ve been to over 170 breweries now in the past year and half, and no two are alike.
How can readers learn more about the film?
Our website is craftinganation.com, and we can be found on Twitter and Instagram @craftinganation. The film is currently available for digital download. Right now we are in talks with a few distribution companies to begin larger distribution.