Biography
Craig Anthony Knitt grew up in Marion, Wisconsin, where he developed a passion for storytelling and filmmaking from a young age. Unfortunately, many of his early projects have been lost due to technological limitations. He also participated in local theater as a member of the Clintonville Community Players.
After attending UW-Oshkosh for a few years, Knitt returned to his hometown to teach Art. Drawing on his interests, he created courses on Medieval Technologies and Cinematography. He also taught Fundamentals of Design at Menomonee College in Keshena and Green Bay. As head of Marion High School's Drama department, he was responsible for two original productions: "Twang, a Comedy of Arrows" and "On The Air," along with numerous other shows.
Between 1995 and 1998, Knitt collaborated with longtime friend Tom Thorne to produce the "Out Of Whack Show," which aired on public access in Appleton, WI. The series ran for thirteen episodes, with some of the later ones being notably watchable. These efforts led to the founding of Out of Whack Productions, Knitt's production company.
In 1999, Knitt appeared as a background character in Paul Rinehart's "Afterbirth." Around the same time, he joined Green Bay's Comedy City improvisational troupe, performing there at least monthly ever since.
Subsequently, Knitt, with Thorne and a small group of friends, created his first feature film, "The Hunt," a dark comedy centered on an accidental shooting. The attention "The Hunt" received was expected to launch Knitt and Out of Whack Productions toward producing his Viking epic comedy, "Stonecutter's Quest," though this did not come to fruition.
In 2002, Knitt and Thorne reunited, collaborating with Jason Buss—another star of "The Hunt"—to establish the Wildwood Film Festival, aimed at showcasing Wisconsin filmmaking talent. Over time, the festival has become one of the state's premier film events.
Knitt is a founding member of the Independent Filmmakers Guild (IFG) in Green Bay and continues to serve on its board. In addition to his IFG involvement, he is an active participant in the Wis-Kino filmmaking group based in Madison.
He served as Director of Photography and Chief Editor for Paul Rinehart's "Damaged," which premiered at Green Bay's Meyer Theatre in August 2007. Knitt was also involved in Krist Rufty's "Psycho Holocaust," with special effects provided by his friends at Autumn Nights Studios.
