Experiencing Interruptions?

Brushstrokes

Logline: A young artist must overcome her struggles with self-image in order to complete a portrait.
Synopsis: Throughout her day, the woman battles a blank canvas doing everything she can to avoid the task at hand. However, nothing works. Not even encouragement from her boyfriend. All seems lost until she stumbles upon an old photo during a cleaning frenzy. The image of herself in her most natural and beautiful state has given her the inspiration to complete the self-portrait. In the end, she is not only satisfied with, but also proud of her work.

  • Alexandra Alston
    Director
  • Alexandra Alston
    Writer
  • Patrícia Colmenero
    Producer
  • Abi Charbonneau
    Key Cast
    "Woman"
  • Giame Spina
    Key Cast
    "Boyfriend"
  • Project Type:
    Short, Student
  • Genres:
    Drama
  • Runtime:
    6 minutes 58 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    December 16, 2022
  • Production Budget:
    1,600 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    2.35
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    Yes - Feirstein Graduate School of Cinema
  • Digital Cinema Package:
    Unavailable
Director Biography - Alexandra Alston

Director Alexandra Alston grew up in Maryland and moved to New York City at the age of 22 to attend film school. The short drama film "Brushstrokes" is her directorial debut. Alexandra is a first time filmmaker, and has found a passion for the industry as a crew member on several shorts at the Feirstein Graduate School of Cinema. She is attending school to build community and learn, but most importantly to develop her voice. Representation matters to her, not only in terms of diversity, but with the struggles we experience. Every film she makes and character she writes resonates and leaves a mark on the audience. Alexandra is set to graduate in 2025, and strives to write and direct a feature film within a year of graduation.

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Director Statement

I chose to write about struggles with self-image because it's a universal battle. I took from my own experiences, as well as several people I know, when creating this character. Self-esteem and mental health issues affect us in our everyday lives, and can prevent us from doing the simplest things. Even if you aren't an artist, you understand what this woman is going through. We all have something that our negative thoughts are preventing us from doing. I wrote this as a love letter to myself and young women everywhere to let them know that one day you will overcome your obstacles.