The Why

The Why is an emotional short film that delves into the journey of Daniel, a young man grappling with guilt and addiction. The story navigates between present-day therapy sessions and poignant flashbacks, gradually unraveling the events that led Daniel to his current state. As he confronts his past mistakes and battles with inner turmoil, Daniel finds himself in a rehab facility, where he forms a complex bond with his therapist, Theresa. Through their interactions, the film explores themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the transformative power of human connection. The Why offers a heartfelt exploration of addiction and recovery, shedding light on the challenges individuals face while on the path to healing, redemption, and self-forgiveness.

  • Ciara Evans
    Director
  • Ciara Evans
    Writer
  • Spencer Sabel
    Producer
  • Gerain Arias
    Key Cast
    "Daniel"
  • Sara Oliva
    Key Cast
    "Theresa"
  • Lexy Nitzel
    Key Cast
    "Becca"
  • Kathy McCourt
    Key Cast
    "Judge"
  • Andrew Johnson
    Key Cast
    "Client"
  • Cody Griggs
    Cinematographer
  • Ethan Helms
    Sound Mixer
  • James Craft
    Editor
  • Paloma Alonso
    Production Designer
  • Mathew Skara
    Extras
  • Alexa Rivera
    Extras
  • Sophie Vital
    Extras
  • Kailee Morgan
    Extras
  • Cameron Marcoccia
    Extras
  • Larry Calabretta
    Extras
  • Ebonie Larrame
    Extras
  • Gideon Spano
    1st Assistant Director
  • Devon Jones
    2nd Assistant Director
  • Sydnee Ackiss
    2nd 2nd Assistant Director
  • Jireh Stokes
    Script Supervisor
  • Rylee Wilton
    Assistant Script Supervisor
  • Timothy Sanders
    Script Consultant
  • Zachary Brescia
    Camera Operator
  • Jordan Altdorfer
    1st Assistant Camera
  • Brian Lynch
    2nd Assistant Camera
  • Veronika Hanzenko
    Key Production Assistant
  • Julian Albert
    Key Grip
  • Ricardo Moreno
    Gaffer
  • Harley Tejada Garcia
    Best Boy Electric
  • Luis Sanchez
    Dolly Grip
  • Michael Keller
    Grip
  • Anthony Berril
    Grip
  • Mario Fabrizio Marini
    Grip
  • David Lloyd
    Grip
  • Andrea Zempoalteca
    Grip
  • Kevin Johnson
    Boom Operator
  • Rosana Maisonet Ayala
    Set Dresser
  • Sofia Rolla Castillo
    Wardrobe
  • Bailianna Sholl
    Hair and Makeup
  • Alyssa Van Allen
    Hair and Makeup
  • Miguel Berlingeri
    Art PA
  • Sean Fischer Jr.
    Art PA
  • Allison Newton
    Art PA
  • Dajah Benton
    Art PA
  • Ben Cooper
    Art PA
  • Miguel Diaz
    Art PA
  • Fernando Bracero
    Art PA
  • Jonah Schmitz
    Art PA
  • Morgan Hemphill
    Art PA
  • Collin Tagerty
    Production Assistant
  • Sarah Webb
    Production Assistant
  • Jacob Buchanan
    Production Assistant
  • Nikki Christie
    Production Assistant
  • Collin Simpson
    Production Assistant
  • Andreas Rivera de Jesus
    Production Assistant
  • Caitlin Blanchard
    Production Assistant
  • Israel Marquez
    Production Assistant
  • Zach Chase
    Production Assistant
  • Daniel Miliszewski
    BTS Photographer
  • Hunter Kanneberg
    BTS Photographer
  • John Rymer
    BTS Photographer
  • Parker John
    Re-Recording Mixer
  • Parker John
    Foley Artist
  • Alex Negron
    Foley Artist
  • Santiago Torres
    Foley Artist
  • Parker John
    Foley Engineer
  • Santiago Torres
    Foley Engineer
  • PJ Jimenez
    Illustrator
  • Dylan Shea
    Promotional Art
  • Florencia Minniti
    Singers
  • Justin Mola
    Music Producers
  • Brandon Rufer
    Music Producers
  • Brandon Rufer
    Songwriter
  • Florencia Minniti
    Songwriter
  • Justin Mola
    Musician
  • Santiago Torres
    Sound Supervisors
  • Parker John
    Sound Supervisors
  • Santiago Torres
    Music Supervisor
  • Parker John
    ReRecording Engineer
  • Project Type:
    Short, Student
  • Runtime:
    7 minutes
  • Production Budget:
    1,200 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital, ProRes 4444
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    Yes - Full Sail University
Director Biography - Ciara Evans

Ciara's passion is creating captivating narratives through her unique directorial vision, crafting immersive worlds and compelling characters. She embraces inclusive storytelling, driven by education and collaborations. With a talent for authentically capturing raw emotions and portraying human struggles, Ciara aims to create resonant films that seamlessly blend meaning and engagement.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

The Why holds a special place in my heart as it explores a story that resonates with my personal experiences and those of many others. It's a narrative that deserves increased attention and discussion. I hope that this film has a profound and resonating impact on those who understand and can relate to its message in some way. May this film help you find answers to your own "Why."