Private Project

Heist

A desperate father coerces his lifelong friend—a seasoned criminal—into a high-stakes heist, concealing the dangerous truths that could shatter their bond.

  • Drew Hernandez
    Director
  • Drew Hernandez
    Writer
  • Juston Graber
    Writer
  • Drew Hernandez
    Producer
  • Juston Graber
    Producer
  • Juston Graber
    Key Cast
    "Louis Rizzo"
  • Drew Hernandez
    Key Cast
    "Reymond Perez"
  • Ashley Alva
    Key Cast
    "Simone Monet"
  • Rufino Romero
    Key Cast
    "Shawn Briggs"
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Genres:
    Crime, Thriller, Drama
  • Runtime:
    15 minutes 34 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    November 1, 2020
  • Production Budget:
    16,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States, United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States, United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Drew Hernandez

Andrew Anthony Hernandez, a native New Yorker hailing from a lineage of first-generation Dominican immigrants, embodies a rich tapestry of experiences. Rooted in the vibrant cultural fusion of his upbringing, he is a testament to the American dream.

Growing up amidst the bustling streets of New York, Andrew's father served as a doorman in a downtown building, while his mother filled the vital role of a Spanish interpreter for nurses. These formative years instilled in him a deep appreciation for hard work, empathy, and the power of communication.

At the age of 19, Andrew embarked on a profound journey, joining the U.S. Army. For an illustrious span of 7 years, he served his nation traversing landscapes of challenge and courage as a soldier and leader, especially during his two deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Post his remarkable service, Andrew dipped his toes into the halls of Hostos Community College in the Bronx, NY. There, he delved into the realm of Business Management, honing skills that would later serve as a foundation for his multifaceted endeavors.

Not content with navigating the conventional paths of life, Andrew's creative spirit sought new avenues for expression. Thus, "A Combat Veteran" was born—a comedic brand that transcends the mundane, offering a reprieve of laughter and joy to fellow veterans and beyond. Through episodic content on social media, Andrew weaves tales that resonate with shared experiences, demonstrating his innate ability to find humor even in the most challenging situations.

Central to Andrew's ethos is the unwavering belief in creative consistency and hard work. His journey is a testament to the progression he's achieved with each piece of content he's crafted—a testament to his dedication, growth, and unrelenting passion.
Currently stationed in the vibrant landscape of Los Angeles, California, Andrew's focus has expanded to encompass the realms of acting and writing. This chapter of his narrative is an exploration of uncharted territories, a testament to his audacity to dream and courage to evolve.

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Director Statement

When we set out to create Heist, our goal was to craft a gripping, emotionally resonant story that explored loyalty, betrayal, and the high cost of ambition. At its core, Heist delves into the unraveling trust between lifelong friends—one a criminal and the other a blue-collar worker—caught in a web of high-stakes decisions and moral dilemmas.

Inspired by Robert Rodriguez’s approach to achieving something big on a small budget, we embraced the challenge of creating a compelling film with a skeleton crew and cast, and a limited budget, aiming to prove how much could be achieved through creativity and resourcefulness. The story also draws from the suspense and mystery of films like Saw, weaving in organic twists and turns that arise naturally from the characters’ choices and relationships rather than shock value alone.

To ensure every moment felt authentic, we dedicated over a month to developing the characters' backstories, motivations, and personal connections. Whether driven by family obligations or the thrill of a criminal life, each character's passion shaped the narrative in a way that felt real and relatable.

For me, Heist is more than a crime thriller—it’s a human story about the fragility of trust and the ripple effects of betrayal. While the plot delivers suspense, its true heart lies in the emotional stakes, inviting audiences to reflect on the choices they might make when survival hangs in the balance. My hope is that viewers not only enjoy the twists and surprises but also connect deeply with the humanity of the characters and the complexities of their world.