On the other side of the road

Struggling to let go of his beloved Lily, Calvin embarks on a soul-stirring journey of acceptance and closure, forced to confront the painful truth that she is no longer part of his life.

  • Emily Roberts
    Director
  • Arman Sayat
    Writer
  • Emily Roberts
    Writer
  • Arman Sayat
    Producer
  • DJ Tipton
    Key Cast
    "Calvin"
  • Neve Chai
    Key Cast
    "Lily"
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Runtime:
    6 minutes 26 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    August 10, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    1,500 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital, 35mm, RED
  • Aspect Ratio:
    2:39
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    Yes - New York Film Academy
Director Biography - Emily Roberts

Meet Emily Roberts, a dynamic 22-year-old filmmaker hailing from the picturesque landscapes of Italy. Her artistic journey has taken her from the historic streets of Venice to the bustling heart of Los Angeles, where she now resides.

Emily's fascination with the world of multimedia arts was ignited during her formative years, culminating in her successful completion of a Bachelor's Degree in Multimedia Arts from a prestigious institution in Venice, Italy. Eager to expand her horizons and delve deeper into the realm of filmmaking, Emily embarked on a new chapter by enrolling at the New York Film Academy in Burbank. Her goal? To obtain a Master's Degree in Filmmaking and Directing, solidifying her expertise and understanding of the craft.

Passionate and driven, Emily firmly believes that films hold the power to convey emotions, stories, and messages that resonate on a universal level. Her cinematic creations are a testament to her deeply personal connection with her subjects, reflecting her dedication to evoking empathy and understanding among her audience. Every frame she captures, every narrative she weaves, bears the imprint of her unique perspective, inviting viewers to share in her experiences and insights.

Beyond the confines of a film set, Emily's vibrant spirit finds solace in exploring new landscapes and forging connections with diverse individuals. Her love for travel is matched only by her enthusiasm for meeting new people, both of which infuse her work with a rich tapestry of cultural influences and human connections. Her sociable nature and boundless curiosity are evident in the stories she chooses to tell and the characters she brings to life.

What truly sets Emily apart is the unwavering passion she pours into her craft. Whether it's shaping a compelling storyline, perfecting a shot's composition, or collaborating with her team, she approaches each endeavor with an unparalleled fervor. Her dedication is not solely to the art itself, but to the profound impact she believes it can have on the world at large.

As Emily continues to cultivate her skills and broaden her cinematic horizons, her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring filmmakers and storytellers worldwide. With her Master's Degree on the horizon and a heart full of creativity, Emily Roberts is undoubtedly a rising star in the world of filmmaking, destined to touch hearts and minds with her artistry for years to come.

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Director Statement

"Creating 'On the Side of the Road' has been a deeply personal and collaborative journey, one that holds a special place in my heart. When I first read the beautiful story penned by my dear friend Arman Sayat, I was immediately drawn into its heartfelt narrative. Arman, a multi-talented filmmaker, cinematographer, and writer, has poured his own experiences and emotions into this story, making it a poignant reflection of life's intricate tapestry.

Collaboration has always been the cornerstone of our creative process, and this project was no exception. Arman and I have forged a creative partnership that spans various projects, each time bringing our unique strengths to the table. As Arman focused his masterful eye on capturing the visual essence of the film through his cinematography, I was entrusted with the responsibility of bringing his narrative to life through direction.

'On the Side of the Road' resonates deeply with both of us due to its exploration of loss, resilience, and the struggle to find healing. The theme of loss is universal, and we have both faced our own trials in overcoming it. This shared experience gave me an added layer of emotional investment in the project. Directing this film became more than just a professional endeavor; it was a way for us to channel our personal stories into a meaningful artistic expression.

The story itself is a testament to the power of human connection in the face of adversity. It follows the journey of characters who, like us, have grappled with the weight of loss. As a director, my aim was to capture the raw authenticity of their emotions, allowing the audience to embark on an immersive experience that evokes empathy and introspection.

Through carefully crafted visuals, nuanced performances, and a meticulous attention to detail, we endeavored to transport the audience into the world of 'On the Side of the Road.' It's a world where grief and healing intermingle, where the road to recovery is marked by moments of vulnerability, strength, and unexpected bonds.

I am grateful for the opportunity to direct this film, to translate Arman's evocative words into a visual and emotional journey that I believe will resonate with audiences on a deeply personal level. 'On the Side of the Road' is not just a story; it's a tribute to the human spirit's ability to find solace, understanding, and ultimately, hope, even in the most challenging of circumstances."