CAUGHT, 8min., USA
Directed by Kevan Doyle
Caught is a short documentary filmed in Sri Lanka that explores how building economies around recycling can inspire sustainable change in developing communities. Directed by Kevan Doyle, the film was featured in his TEDx talk after the organizer was so moved by its message, she insisted it be shared with the audience. Caught is a hopeful portrait of how local action can spark global impact—turning ocean waste into opportunity.

https://www.kevandoyle.com/caught

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

I was really motivated to create something I genuinely cared about. I grew up by the ocean, so the environment has always been a big part of my life. This film felt like an opportunity to highlight a real solution, showing how one organization is tackling the climate crisis in a meaningful way, especially in developing countries.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to
make this film?

The project came together over a few months. I spent about a week shooting in Sri Lanka, and then around three months in post-production shaping the story.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?

Inspiring change.

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?

Filming in Sri Lanka, especially out on the water, was definitely the biggest challenge. Shooting on fishing boats and in the ocean is always a bit difficult. Also the language barrier was challenging. I didn't have the budget for a translator on set so had to make due. You always just have to adapt and keep pushing forward.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking
about your film in the feedback video?

It honestly meant a lot. Hearing people connect with the film and say kind things was something I hadn’t really experienced before, so it was a really rewarding moment.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?

I realized it when I was 18 in my first film class. It just clicked. I felt like my brain worked well in that space, and I’d always loved movies. After that, I went all in working with production companies and eventually buying my own camera at 22 and starting to create on my own.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?

Probably The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. It’s just one of those films you can watch over and over. I love the sense of adventure and what it represents.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals
implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?

I think the most valuable part is connection. Being able to meet other filmmakers, especially people further along in their careers, is huge. There’s no clear roadmap in this industry, so having more opportunities to connect, learn, and navigate it together would be really impactful.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experience
been working on the festival platform site?

It’s been a useful platform overall, but it can feel a bit disconnected at times. Sometimes it’s hard to know if your film is really being seen or just passed over quickly. That said, it’s still one of the main ways to get your work out there.

10. What is your favorite meal?

A really good breakfast burrito.

11. What is next for you? A new film?

I’m currently working on a docuseries focused on music. It’s inspired by shows like Chef’s Table and Parts Unknown, but centered around artists and culture. We’re shooting the pilot soon, in Norway, and I’m really excited about where it could go.