Private Project

The Showroom Effect

Welcome to the topsy-turvy and often hilariously complicated life of multi-tasking, multi-clumsy and multi-talented interior designer, Laura Sykes.

The "showroom effect" is a real phenomenon that affects Laura in her quest to be an amazing designer, wife and "normal" person, as well as her clients who struggle to see her as anything more than a showroom robot who should live only to serve their every decorating need.

As a whirlwind of events compile throughout the day, Laura also has to deal with an ongoing fight against cancer. Once accepted as truth, she handles her challenging situations creatively with help from an over-active, yet quite brilliant imagination that launches her into a therapeutic fantasy world.

  • Amy Hart
    Director
  • Amy Hart
    Writer
  • Debra Hopkins
    Producer
    Passing Darkness, Finding Alice
  • Amy Hart
    Producer
    Fearfighter
  • Amy Hart
    Key Cast
    "Laura"
    Plan 9, Lovecraft Chronicles Vol2, House on the Hill, Spade
  • Debra Hopkins
    Key Cast
    "Cheryl"
    Passing Darkness, Poker Run, The Way, Just the 3 of Us
  • T. Eric Hart
    Key Cast
    "Ben"
    Plan 9, Legends & Lies
  • Dot Gregory
    Key Cast
    "Client"
    House of Cards, Torn
  • Jarod Kearney
    Key Cast
    "MC"
    Mario Warfare, Plan 9
  • Kenneth Mader
    Editor
    Carnivore, Doria, Passing Darkness, A.L.L.I.A.N.C.E.
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Runtime:
    18 minutes 42 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    September 5, 2018
  • Production Budget:
    4,500 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    No
Director - Amy Hart
Director Statement

The Showroom Effect is a short film that shares a day in the life of overly busy kitchen designer Laura Sykes. The character of our heroine Laura is based on the life of the creator Amy Hart. Amy has been a designer working with the public for more than twenty years, and an actress for even longer than that. This short film is her first adventure into screenwriting and directing.

Los Angeles-based Debra Hopkins (Amy's cousin) supported the idea to create The Showroom Effect, and was very involved in the production. With her years of experience and impressive industry credentials, she brought leadership and a great mind to the set.

Every day at the showroom holds a plethora of inspiration for Amy. Just like so many narratives, real life is often funnier and more complicated that something a writer can fabricate. 

Fortunately none of the film's customer characters are based on real people. That might drive a designer to drink! However, with any fiction, every day situations and people can become larger than life with a little imagination. It certainly is more entertaining.

One truth is Amy's real-life struggle with cancer and her quest to remain a relevant and active participant in her work and family life while fighting an ugly disease. She has been cancer-free since October 2006, and remains very involved in her medical care. Life is a gift, and this film is here today because of Amy's "go for it" attitude. Don't let imperfection thwart something wonderful. Appreciate everything for what it is.

Amy lives with her husband T. Eric Hart and their two big fluffy dogs in the historic town of Scottsville Virginia. The film was shot in Charlottesville Virginia with the help of friends and industry professionals.

The Showroom Effect boasts experienced and award-winning actors, beautiful sets and gorgeous cinematography. Jason Shifflett, our cinematographer, brought his high-tech equipment, experience and passion to the set. This film looks so good because of him. The whole crew elevated the quality of this film, from art direction to lighting and sound. 

Debra brought acclaimed filmmaker Kenneth Mader into the mix to oversee editing and sound mixing. Ken was an invaluable resource during the editing process, kindly sharing his wisdom to produce a better end product.

We truly hope you laugh, cry and relate to this story. Thank you for watching.