Private Project

Just a Pill Away

"Just a Pill Away" follows Judy, a struggling actress grappling with the pressure to take a new drug that guarantees a permanent, perfect smile. Because of her refusal to conform, she constantly fails auditions despite her passion and dedication. Torn between her belief in authenticity and her desire to succeed, Judy decides to seek guidance from her former drama professor. After a disappointing meeting with her mentor, she eventually takes the pill and betrays her ideals, becoming the very person she despised.

  • Frederick Shih
    Director
  • Abigail Tolley
    Writer
  • Kurklan Fullmer
    Producer
  • Tom Russell
    Executive Producer
  • Eva Hansen-Smith
    Executive Producer
  • Dana Moore
    Key Cast
    "Judy"
  • Trevor Komm
    Key Cast
    "Brandon"
  • Ben Burnett
    Key Cast
    "Andrew"
  • Stephanie Breinholt
    Key Cast
    "Professor Moore"
  • Lee Martin
    Director of Photography
  • Macey Chatterton
    Production Designer
  • Daniel Phillips
    Editor
  • Hayden Thompson
    Music Composer
  • Tremiti Childs
    Casting Director
  • Project Type:
    Short, Student
  • Runtime:
    15 minutes 25 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    August 15, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    8,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    2.2:1
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    Yes - Brigham Young University
Distribution Information
  • Brigham Young University Theatre & Media Arts Department
    Distributor
    Country: United States
    Rights: All Rights
Director Biography - Frederick Shih

Frederick Shih is an emerging filmmaker and recent graduate from Brigham Young University. Originally from Taiwan, he has written and directed several short fictional and documentary films through the course of his schooling. His filmmaking is driven by a deep engagement with contemporary social issues and a passion for innovative storytelling.
His recent work, "Pretend Play" (扮家家酒), won the Taiwanese film competition "Seeing the Invisible Wounds" (看見看不見的傷).

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Director Statement

“Just a Pill Away” is a cautionary tale. However, unlike many of its counterparts, the protagonist of our story is simply a good person faced with unfortunate circumstances, which brings a sense of sympathy into the narrative. Judy’s journey not only underscores the dangers of compromise, but it also reminds us that even the best among us can make poor choices without the right priorities.