Dinner

"Dinner" is a horror film for the socially anxious, and a tragedy for the over-ambitious. Writing “Dinner” began as a confrontation of some burn-out I was feeling from the constant hustle of working in the film industry. I wanted to challenge myself with a project outside of my comfort zone while allowing my imagination to run wild exploring the dark side of modern capitalism and our relationship with our careers. At the absolute most toxic, our bosses can seem like monsters, there only to feed upon our skills and passions. Writing and directing "Dinner" has allowed me to playfully explore some personal frustrations with work culture, and to bring to life the horrors that can grow in the workplace.

Soon after the first draft, Jono Eiland, who we ultimately cast as Sam in “Dinner,” helped me set up some table reads. These table reads were crucial to the writing process and gave me plenty of energy to propel me through subsequent drafts. It was helpful to hear the dialogue come to life (or not) when read aloud by the actors who agreed to help. Having talented artists give real time feedback on their interpretations and confusions was absolutely invaluable.

In “Dinner,” I want to convey the inescapable feeling of social anxiety and discomfort that Beatrice and Max are forced to face at the hands of their employers. The story oscillates between objective and subjective moments, much like the experience of going to an awkward social gathering. One moment, you might be a wallflower, content to quietly observe from the fringes of the party. The next moment, you could find yourself suddenly, and perhaps unwillingly, in the center spotlight, with all attention on you. In “Dinner,” much of the story is told in wide shots, allowing the audience to be wallflowers and experience each moment from a more objective perspective. It isn’t until the moments of highest intensity, when the spotlight shines on the most socially awkward, that the camera moves into the center of the action, isolates characters, and amps up the nervous energy.

“Dinner” brings to life the horrors we experience in our professional lives. I hope that through this film, audiences will not only see a reflection of their own frustrating experiences but also find some humor and perhaps a bit of catharsis in the chaos. I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to invite you to “Dinner.”