#DadLife

Growing up is hard to do. Being promoted to a Dad is even harder. Sometimes it takes a little extra help! (This short film was conceived, written, shot, and edited in just under 36 hours!)

  • Scott May
    Director
  • Ian Zelenka
    Director of Photography
  • Dylan O'Callaghan
    Writer
  • Scott May
    Writer
  • Josh Ryan
    Writer
  • Ian Zelenka
    Writer
  • Scott May
    Editing
  • Ian Zelenka
    Editing
  • Dylan O'Callaghan
    Key Cast
    "Dad"
  • Tatum Ratzlaff
    Key Cast
    "Mom"
  • Alicia Mandela
    Key Cast
    "Social Worker"
  • Scott May
    Key Cast
    "Father"
  • Josh Ryan
    Key Cast
    "Beer Father"
  • Azim Kamalulrahim
    Key Cast
    "Stick Dad"
  • Azim Kamalulrahim
    Key Grip
  • Josh Ryan
    Grips
  • Alicia Mandela
    Grips
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Genres:
    Drama, Comedy
  • Runtime:
    3 minutes 58 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    September 29, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    150 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States, United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States, United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Take36
    Wichita, KS
    United States
    September 29, 2024
    North American Premire
    Judge's Honor
  • Old Times Not Forgotten Film Fest
    Derby, KS
    United States
    January 19, 2025
    Most Original Film
  • Clean Shorts Film Festival
    Norman, OK
    United States
    March 29, 2025
    Best Shorty Short
  • Great Wonders Uplift Film Festival
    Webb City, MO
    United States
    January 9, 2025
    Official Selection
  • Cinematography & Photography Awards
    London, UK
    United States
    January 9, 2025
    Official Selection
  • New York Tri-State International Film Festival
    New York
    United States
    January 16, 2025
    Official Selection
  • First City Film Festival
    Leavenworth, KS
    United States
    Official Selection
  • Bare Bones International Film & Music Festival
    Muskogee, Oklahoma
    United States
    March 28, 2025
    Official Selection
  • Bird Watching Film Festival
    Kansas City, MO
    United States
    April 10, 2025
    Official Selection
  • Daddying Film Festival & Forum (D3F)
    Chevy Chase, MD
    United States
    April 7, 2025
    Official Selection
  • WIFI Film Festival
    Topeka, KS
    United States
    April 12, 2025
    Official Selection
  • Atlanta Micro Short Film Festival
    Atlanta, GA
    United States
    May 10, 2025
    Official Selection
Director Biography - Scott May

Scott’s career in production began in television news, where he honed his storytelling abilities. From there, he progressed to directing and producing TV commercials. His creative vision and project management skills further flourished during his time in production management, where he led a team of professionals to deliver compelling commercial content across Kansas and the Dakotas.

With a vast array of skills in field and studio production, Scott is adept at managing live event broadcasts, including sports events and concerts for platforms like ABC, CBS, and NBC affiliates as well as ESPN, and TBLTV. A problem solver at heart, Scott’s ability to craft visually engaging stories and his passion for production have made him a respected leader in the industry.

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Director Statement

For me, filmmaking is all about telling real stories. I believe the best stories are the ones that feel true to life—the ones that capture moments, emotions, and experiences we all recognize. Whether it’s a simple glance, a quiet conversation, or something unexpected, real life has a way of being extraordinary.

I make films because I love exploring what it means to be human. I want my work to invite people into moments that feel honest and relatable, whether it’s through humor, drama, or just a small observation. My goal is always to create films that connect with people—stories that make them feel seen and heard.

At the end of the day, it’s the small, real moments that move me the most. That’s why I keep coming back to filmmaking: to capture those moments and share them with others.