Director’s Statement

In April 2024, I owed money to the United States government for my taxes. An almost, kind of, what you would call, struggling independent filmmaker in New York City owed even more money. Great. So, what did I do? I wrote about it... and then spent even more (after paying the IRS, of course) to make a movie about the absurdity of hustling for work in the creative world.

Throughout the making of this short, I kept telling the crew: 'The Actor' is dedicated to us- the hustlers, freelancers, actors, writers, and job-to-job creatives. While I hope 'The Actor' makes you laugh, know that its comedy, situations, and characters come from a very real place.

This is my first film exploring what it’s like to navigate your mid-20's- a shift from my previous work, which has focused on my childhood and dealing with divorce. The experience was deeply cathartic for me, and I hope it resonates with you, whether you’ve just watched it or are about to. Enjoy the performances, the craftsmanship, and the absolute rush of this 15-minute short.

And of course, every view helps me get one step closer to not owing the government again as a freelance filmmaker. Maybe. So, thank you.