1st on Film

Our Hero, Balthazar | Interview with Erin DeWitt and Nate DeYoung

This week on 1st on Film, we sit down with editors Erin DeWitt and Nate DeYoung to discuss their work on Oscar Boyson’s provocative dark comedy-drama Our Hero, Balthazar. The pair break down their collaborative editing process, balancing the film’s sharp tonal shifts between satire and emotional realism, and shaping two contrasting perspectives into one cohesive story. We also dive into their creative partnership with Boyson, the challenges of pacing character-driven tension, and how the film’s themes of online culture and modern alienation informed the final cut. A fascinating conversation about storytelling, rhythm, and finding humanity inside chaos.

A Guest in My Country | Interview with Director John Gray

In this episode of 1st on Film, we sit down with writer-director John Gray to discuss his powerful short film A Guest in My Country. Gray shares the inspiration behind the story, the themes of identity and belonging woven throughout the film, and the creative process of bringing such an emotional and timely project to life. We also talk about the challenges of independent filmmaking, storytelling through a deeply human lens, and what he hopes audiences take away from the experience. John Gray is an award-winning writer, director, and producer known for his work across film and television. He is the creator of the long-running hit series Ghost Whisperer and has written and directed numerous acclaimed projects throughout his career. With a storytelling style that often explores human connection, spirituality, and emotional truth, Gray has built a reputation for creating thoughtful and compelling narratives that resonate with audiences worldwide. A Guest in My Country continues that tradition, offering a moving and timely reflection on identity, compassion, and belonging.

Eddie Short Film | Interview with Laurel Brady

On this episode of 1st on Film, we hit the red carpet at Shenanigans Toronto, to speak with writer/director Laurel Brady about her short film Eddie. Laurel discusses the inspiration behind the film, and the creative process behind the project, Laurel Brady is a filmmaker and writer/director whose work focuses on character-driven storytelling and emotionally grounded narratives. Through her films, she explores human connection, identity, and personal growth, bringing a thoughtful and authentic voice to independent cinema. Eddie is a short film that follows an emotionally layered journey of self-discovery and connection, exploring themes of vulnerability, relationships, and the complexities of everyday life. With an intimate storytelling approach and strong performances, the film offers a heartfelt look at the moments that shape us.

American Muscle | Interview with Joel Veach and Liana Wright-Mark

On this episode of 1st on Film, we sit down with writer-director Joel Veach and actress Liana Wright-Mark to discuss their gritty new indie thriller American Muscle. Veach opens up about crafting the film’s tense neo-noir atmosphere, balancing emotional family drama with crime-thriller intensity, and making his feature directorial debut. Wright-Mark shares insight into building her complex character Maggie, collaborating with the cast, and bringing emotional depth to a story filled with desperation, violence, and buried secrets. Joel Veach is an American writer, director, and producer best known for the indie crime thriller American Muscle, which marks his feature directorial debut. In addition to directing the film, Veach also wrote and produced the project, showcasing his signature character-driven storytelling and gritty neo-noir style. Prior to American Muscle, he wrote the psychological thriller Old Man (2022), directed by Lucky McKee and starring Stephen Lang. Veach has also directed short films, including Guys with Guns, and continues to develop bold independent genre projects. Liana Wright-Mark is a New York and Los Angeles–based actress, writer, musician, and model whose work spans film, television, and theater. She stars as Maggie in Joel Veach’s thriller American Muscle. Wright-Mark previously appeared in Rian Johnson’s Poker Face, Hulu’s Old Man alongside Stephen Lang, and Gary Ross’ Ocean’s 8. A graduate of Pace University’s Musical Theater program, she has also written and produced original stage work, including the award-winning musical Elise. Beyond acting, Wright-Mark has worked extensively in modeling and music, building a diverse creative career across multiple artistic mediums.

The Bearded Girl | Interview with Jody Wilson and Anwen O’Driscoll

In this episode of 1st on Film, we sit down with director Jody Wilson and actor Anwen O’Driscoll to talk about The Bearded Girl, a coming-of-age drama that blends family history, identity, and life in the traveling carnival world. Jody discusses bringing the film’s emotional story to the screen, while Anwen shares what drew her to the role and how she approached portraying a character searching for belonging and self-acceptance. Jody Wilson is a Canadian writer and director whose work explores identity, class, and psychological themes through a surreal and character-driven lens. With a background in screenwriting and visual effects, Wilson first gained attention for her award-winning short film Indigo before making her feature directorial debut with The Bearded Girl. Anwen O’Driscoll is a Canadian actor known for her performances in You Can Live Forever, Burden of Truth, October Faction, and Netflix’s Bet. Originally from Ontario, she began acting at a young age and has quickly become one of Canada’s rising young performers, earning praise for her emotionally grounded and compelling performances.