Experiencing Interruptions?

Dad Bod

A relentlessly upbeat father of four revisits the traumatic event from his childhood that forever changed him. A short documentary about fatherhood, fitness, and mental health. [Trigger warning //self-harm]

  • Daniel Flahiff
    Director
  • Daniel Flahiff
    Producer
  • Travis Sterner
    Key Cast
  • Pakawat Thongcharoen
    Director of Photography
  • Sergiy Yashchuk
    Cinematography
  • Daniel Flahiff
    Cinematography
  • Luke Zimmer
    Cinematography
  • Project Type:
    Documentary
  • Runtime:
    6 minutes 29 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    May 19, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    2,855 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    2.35:1
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Daniel Flahiff

Daniel Flahiff is a Seattle-based filmmaker, making his documentary debut with the captivating short film, "Dad Bod." Drawing from his diverse background, Flahiff brings a unique perspective to the craft of storytelling, shedding light on compelling, character-driven narratives that resonate with audiences.

Currently serving as Deputy Director at the nonprofit Samena Swim & Recreation Club, Flahiff brings a hands-on, collaborative approach to filmmaking he developed in the grassroots, nonprofit world.

Before his work at Samena, Flahiff honed his creative skills in the entertainment industry where he developed and directed promos for Disney, Mattel, and Hasbro; created special effects and title designs for Universal, Touchstone, and MGM; and built mobile apps and led UX/UI design on projects and campaigns for ESPN, Jeep, and Audi. His work at East Lemon, a mobile development company serving nonprofits, showcased his commitment to making a positive impact through technology.

Flahiff earned a BBA earned from Pacific Lutheran University and an MFA attained from the prestigious Art Center College of Design. His dedication to his craft led him to further explore his passion through post-graduate work at the UCLA Writer's Studio, refining his storytelling skills and deepening his understanding of the human experience.

Beyond his artistic pursuits, Flahiff is an avid endurance athlete and Ironman. His love for pushing physical and mental boundaries translates into his work as a director, as he seeks to capture the essence of human resilience and transformation. When he's not immersed in the world of filmmaking or working on creative endeavors, Flahiff finds solace in the outdoors. You can often find him swimming, biking, or running single-track trails in the Cascade Mountains, fueling his inspiration and connecting with nature.

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Director Statement

In my side-hustle as a personal trainer, I encountered a wide variety of individuals on their journey toward better physical fitness. But my experience with Travis, the subject of this short documentary, impacted me on a deeply personal level. 'Dad Bod' delves into the intricate layers of body image, mental health, and the unspoken challenges many men face in our society today.

As Travis' trainer, I witnessed his determination and commitment to transforming his body. But what struck me even more, was the honesty and vulnerability he displayed throughout our sessions. It became evident that Travis' struggle with his weight and body image went far beyond the superficial desire for a chiseled physique. It was a battle against self-doubt, societal expectations, and the shadows of his past.

'Dad Bod' is not just a story about one man's journey towards physical fitness. It is a call to action—a plea to engage in open conversations about mental health, particularly when it comes to our children. Through my own struggles with weight, body image, and self-harm, I have come to understand that these issues often stem from deeper emotional and psychological wounds. By bringing light to Travis' story, I hope to ignite a dialogue that challenges the stigma surrounding depression and suicide.

Travis' resilience and unwavering spirit throughout his fitness journey left an indelible mark on me. He is not just a subject, but an inspiration. Through his relentless optimism and determination, he reminds me of the strength that resides within each of us, the power to confront our demons and emerge triumphant. Travis has shown that true transformation extends beyond physical appearance, into the realm of mental and emotional well-being.

With 'Dad Bod,' I aim to evoke empathy, understanding, and compassion. I want this documentary to help catalyze change, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own relationships with body image, mental health, and the impact they have on those around them. By sharing Travis' story, I hope to shed light on the complexity of the human experience and spark meaningful conversations that have the potential to heal, transform, and even save lives.

In a world where physical perfection is often idealized and vulnerability is misunderstood, 'Dad Bod' stands as a testament to the power of authenticity and the importance of embracing our imperfections. It is my sincere hope that this film resonates with audiences, nudging us towards self-acceptance, empathy, and open-heartedness.

Together, we can embark on a journey of self-discovery, breaking down barriers, and fostering a more compassionate and inclusive society—one conversation at a time.