DIRECTOR'S NOTE
THE PRODUCTION
The inception of this production came during the strike, when the idea of being on set was only a distant thought. I couldn’t have possibly dreamed of what it would turn into.
As I write this, I have so much gratitude for those in the Hawaii film community, who gave their support and placed their faith in me. From start to finish, there was a palpable energy and alignment that surrounded this production. I attribute that energy entirely to the 70+ people that showed out for the sake of supporting creatives within our local community.
It brings me great pride to say that I was part of a production that combined the ranks of novices and veterans in an environment that was conducive to all. Without the pressures we find on our normal studio and network jobs, opportunity arose for individuals to step into positions that they wouldn’t normally be able to, including myself. Those with experience did not hesitate to bestow their years of wisdom upon those without. From this supportive collective of minds, creativity flowed, and ultimately resulted in a pure piece of art.
It’s my belief that this production, a break from our normal jobs, reassured some and instilled in others why we work in this industry, particularly in Hawaii. If not for everyone, I can confidently say it did for me.
THE FILM
The film industry is demanding of creatives and analytics alike. The pace is often so rapid that there’s rarely a chance to come up for air, and the sole reason to come up for air is to dive back in. Some thrive in this cycle, while others don’t. For those who don’t, the effects can be detrimental.
Pyschosis, a snippet from a larger story, explores an extreme example of this dynamic in relation to mental health. As Abigail commits herself entirely to her craft of method acting, she overlooks her schizo affective disorder.
The idea that it’s possible for life to be perceived through a distorted lens is both unsettling and fascinating, but Abigail shows that it’s a reality for some. Perception is ethereal because it’s entirely based on the perceiver and how they experience the world around them. To this point, it isn’t easy to visualize psychosis as it’s in one’s mind; however, one of the film’s goals is to show what that disassociation, in an extreme case, might look and feel like. The coupling of industry pressures along with Abigail’s schizo affective disorder allows the viewer to take an intense look at the industry. Ultimately the film begs the following question: at what point do we value the art we create, more than the artist who create it?