Experiencing Interruptions?
Password

Bystander

In a case of mistaken identity, somebody is forced to prove they are the parent of a kidnapped infant. Told through three perspectives challenging the viewer's unconscious biases, this story is timely as it is harrowing. Based on true events.

  • Justin Nico Flocco
    Director
    Sofia, Little LA, Citizen Runner, Hammersmith Series
  • Justin Nico Flocco
    Writer
    Sofia, Little LA, Citizen Runner, Hammersmith Series
  • Kyle Leland Cullerton
    Writer
    Hammersmith Series, Mid to Late
  • Jessica Marks
    Producer
  • Jodi Gage
    Key Cast
    "Anna"
    Chicago Med, She's Out of Your League, Harriet and Ellie
  • Adriel Irizarry
    Key Cast
    "Francis"
  • Kyle Leland Cullerton
    Key Cast
    "David"
    Hammersmith Series
  • Alejandra Campollo
    Key Cast
    "Jen"
    Insolentes, Cargam, Checklist
  • Poppy Golland
    Key Cast
    "Liz"
    Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D, 20 Something
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Runtime:
    9 minutes 37 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    May 11, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    13,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English, Spanish
  • Shooting Format:
    Alexa Mini
  • Aspect Ratio:
    4:3
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Justin Nico Flocco

Justin Nico Flocco is a director/writer/cinematographer working primarily out of Mexico City / Chicago.

Hes is a mixed raced, Latinx / White filmmaker who's films revolve around themes of Latinx identity.

His first short film, "Sofia," was shot entirely in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He is currently finishing his first feature length documentary, about deported dreamers "Little L.A." shot entirely in Mexico City.

He has shown his films and web series at Cannes Film Festival, Cabos International Film Festival, LA Webfest, Chicago Latino Film Festival, and many more.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

Bystander is a film I co-wrote with my long time friend and collaborator, Kyle Leland Cullerton.

It is a film that I thought could accurately challenge the viewers unconscious bias's toward Latino men. We spent a year writing this script and realized that we were dependent on the strength of our actors. Luckily we found a splendid cast to really bring it home.

The post production was done entirely in Mexico City, and some Foley in Buenos Aires, Argentina. I'm very proud to say that this short film is a tri-continent production.