The Obsession

Russel’s weekend job exterminating an invasive species of crab has developed into a full-blown obsession, spending everyday by Misty Creek hunting something he’s already killed, with no regard for the impact it has had on his only daughter, Sophia. Sophia is torn between desiring freedom and wanting to help Russel recover from his contained insanity. Ultimately, Sophia will come to understand that Russel will never be the father figure she desires, and free herself.

  • Nicholas Pendergrass
    Director
  • Eleanor Campbell
    Writer
  • Diego Cato
    Writer
  • Peta Huang
    Producer
    RPH
  • Vanessa Cheung
    Key Cast
    "Sophia"
  • Mark Moore
    Key Cast
    "Russel"
  • Caris Simmons
    Director of Photography
  • Yimei Chen
    1st Assistant Director
  • Qiaoli Tang
    Production Designer
  • Michiko Qyoshie
    Art Director
  • Project Type:
    Short, Student
  • Runtime:
    6 minutes 43 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    June 23, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    500 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    Canada
  • Country of Filming:
    Canada
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    4:3
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    Yes - Vancouver Film School
Director Biography - Nicholas Pendergrass

Nicholas Pendergrass discovered their passion for film in 2011 while participating in a narrative
filmmaking course offered at their middle school. It was there they began to write and direct
shorts for YouTube and other viral platforms. Despite never garnering much attention outside
their circle of friends, they continued to pursue online filmmaking until achieving a moderate
success on TikTok in 2019.
Following the first few years of the COVID-19 pandemic, where Nicholas begrudgingly worked
at a clothing retailer, they decided to return to film and sought an education at Vancouver Film
School. Nicholas is currently taking the Film Production course, and is on track to graduate this
coming October.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

Crabbing with my father at the docks in Newport, OR, are some of my fondest childhood memories. This was my inspiration for the initial concept of “The Obsession.” However detached from that idea the final draft may be, there is still a piece of my personal experience embedded within the piece. I have a distinct vision that I’m excited to share with you.