Filmmaker Statement

Life and Death. It’s universal, and yet so individual. I am grateful to have collaborated so intimately with Drake Tobias (writer/actor) on this short film, and proud of him for sharing his thoughtful insights and personal experience with the world. It takes courage to be vulnerable on this level, and this story will resonate with many people. When it came to the direction of “Hey Dad” it was important to me that we maintain a level of relatability between our character Adrian’s direct to camera relationship with the audience. As heavy and emotional as death can be, we wanted the tone of the short to maintain this engaging, analytical approach, seen through the perspective of a curious young person experiencing grief. Filmed in Akron, Ohio in April 2023 with a six person crew.