Friends and former collaborators are remembering writer, director, and producer Lynn Shelton, an award-winning indie filmmaker who died Friday at age 54.
The groundbreaking director was best known for her films Humpday,Your Sister’s Sister (2011), Outside In (2017) and last year’s Sword of Trust.
Humpday, which premiered in 2009 at the Sundance Film Festival, starred Joshua Leonard, Alycia Delmore and Shelton’s frequent collaborator, Mark Duplass.
In a tribute on Instagram Saturday, Leonard called Shelton “one of the greatest forces of nature I’ve ever encountered — a brilliant enthusiast to her core.”
Meanwhile, Duplass said her “infectious spirit” was unrivaled. “We lost our dear friend Lynn Shelton. We made so many things together. I wish we had made more. Her boundless creative energy and infectious spirit were unrivaled. She made me better. We butted heads, made up, laughed, pushed each other. Like family. What a deep loss,” Duplass tweeted.
Added filmmaker Nia DaCosta, “Lynn Shelton was one of the wonderful advisors I had at the Sundance Labs. I am so sad and in such shock to hear the news of her passing.”
Director Edgar Wright tweeted: “I am truly shocked at the passing of Lynn Shelton. She was a friend, a kind heart, so talented & only just getting started, despite her stellar work so far. My heart goes out to her family and loved ones. She’s left us too soon. I can’t believe I’ll never hear her laugh again.”
“Lynn Shelton changed my life when she handed me the Directing Award at Sundance in 2012,” tweeted Ava DuVernay. “She announced my name with pride. Handed it to me with love. Rooted for me long after. I can’t believe I’m typing this. Rest In Peace, Beauty. Thank you for your films. And for your kindness.”