Leftovers

The idea for this film came from an analogy created during a free-writing exercise one afternoon in 2013 after becoming concerned with a close friend’s recent behavior. Trying to reignite the connection from a past relationship is like reheating the chewy cold leftovers of a once satisfying meal. The chemistry has changed over time and it will never be the same as it was in its original state.

For Leftovers I wanted to focus on addressing some of the subtle yet intricate feelings that go along with separating from a long term relationship. With Jess and Adam there is more than a physical and romantic connection between them. They try to salvage the friendship that exists at the core of their relationship and that becomes a challenge when they acquire new significant others. It raises the question of whether it’s worth the effort to foster what is left or if they should let go and move forward.

Another aspect of their new relationship is learning to negotiate their changed social status among mutual friends. From this point onward, the film mostly focuses on Jess’s perspective. She finds herself in situations that forces her to confront and acknowledge the inevitable changes that have occurred over the past two years. It’s a balancing act of trying to subdue any unwanted thoughts or feelings that may arise, while everyone enjoys themselves at this summer gathering.

With the production it is important to me that the actors tap into their own thoughts about their character. During rehearsals we spent time getting to know one another by discussing each character intimately and how these complicated interactions would play out on screen. One change in tone or body language in delivery completely redirected the energy and meaning of the scene.