Private Project

Sam & The Purple Elephant

S&TPE navigates the period of hardship following loss. In protagonist Sam's case, a loss of purpose due to a forced departure from an injury in skateboarding. This results in out of character choices and a propelled sense of worthlessness. With pressure from his mom in a disjointed home, and peers who he no longer shares community with, Sam struggles to redefine his life. S&TPE follows Sam as he attempts to forge a connection with love interest, Cassidy, while seeking relief in pain killers offered by an old skate friend. Will Sam create a new path for himself or will he fall deeper into despair?

  • Oliver Ruta
    Director
  • Max Klein
    Director
  • Oliver Ruta
    Writer
  • Max Klein
    Writer
  • Max Klein
    Producer
  • Max Klein
    Key Cast
    "Sam"
  • Maddison McGovern
    Key Cast
    "Cassidy"
  • Matt Villareal
    Key Cast
    "Carter"
  • Justin Dupre
    Key Cast
    "Rufus"
  • Amber Preston
    Key Cast
    "Sam's Mom"
  • Oliver Ruta
    Director of Photogrpahy
  • Hye Young Ra
    Editor
  • Philip Schectman
    Music Composer
  • Yeah Nice Thanks Productions
    Production Company
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Genres:
    Drama, Comedy
  • Runtime:
    23 minutes 8 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    September 8, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    1,650 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    2:35
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Director - Oliver Ruta, Max Klein