09/04/2025
Shoot, Shovel, and Shut-Up // 14 min
Making this film took over 4 years -- from writing and work shopping in the 's short film lab and directing fellowship, to navigating the difficulties of fundraising for a film against the popular market genres of the decade, then finding and losing financial support from a myriad of sources, until the MPI came back into the picture to make this film a reality. They didn't have to do it, but they saw the vision for a conservationist film that went against the grain by seeing the issue through a period, coming of age lens that has Michigan baked into its DNA. I have to thank my mentor Kristi Kendall specifically for keeping this film alive after all these years
It was with their support that we involved an outstanding casting director Alexa Pereira who enabled us to book an amazing cast including Ryan Kitley, Becki Hayes, Chris Richards, and Casey Simpson (!!!)
And with the MPI's support, we were able to produce this film on-location here in Michigan with an exceptional crew of local talent as well as a few great friends from my NYU days. I have to thank for joining me yet again -- from even Bizone, to Rizqi Presents, and now Shoot Shovel, you've been an incredible partner to work with.
We're now heading into the film festival circuit with our premiere being at the - 3pm Friday, Oct 3 and 12pm Sunday, Oct 5 at the ACX Promenade! This is just the beginning -- we'll see you in your neighborhoods soon!
