In talking with Idyllwild Art Academy senior Quincy Ryan, one is struck by his brooding restlessness and his struggle of coming to grips with philosophical contradictions — of finding his unique voice and identity through rigorous introspection and self-examination. It was surprising to find a young man working through existential issues that many older people never choose to examine or consider.

The Idyllwild 2014 International Festival of Cinema will open Jan. 7, 2014, and continue for four more days until the Awards Ceremony, the evening of Saturday, Jan. 11, under the festival’s founder. Steve Savage will reprise his role until a new chair is found to replace Phil Calderone whose time is focused on the Rustic…