METHOD OF HEALING, 7min., USA
Directed by Jordan Lee Douglas Sims
After his daughter's suicide, a mourning father goes to a new therapist. However, things are not as they appear.

https://www.amanwithfriends.com/methodofhealing

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
I've always loved surprising people. That's always been one of my favorite parts of watching films: the surprise and the awe. I also wanted to challenge myself with this story (this was the largest budget and production for one of my shorts). The challenge of making a conversation between two people sitting in a room exciting and engaging, the challenge of shooting a fight scene, the challenge of putting an actor in a bunch of prosthetic make-up, and the challenge to put this all together into a cohesive narrative.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
A little over two years. I wrote a lot of different drafts focusing on different aspects of the world I was building and it took some time to figure out the story that best presented everything.

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

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
My nerves. As we got closer and closer to finishing, I became more and more harsh of every little mistake I would catch. It can be discouraging if that's all you choose to focus on. Once I began focusing on the things that went right and gave myself more grace for the mistakes I caught, I was able to go back to having fun with the project and bring it to completion. I've also learned a lot for the next one!

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
I got giddy and teared up a little. It meant a lot to hear some positive feedback. Also, to win the Best Performances award meant so much. It was a very positive and encouraging experience.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
Since I was 10 years old. I said I wanted to be a director and I haven't changed goals since (I'm 28 now, so I'm definitely committed).

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
Inside Out - It always makes me happy cry and I love the message and how it handles growing up.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
An in-person element would be great to add if possible. To meet the other filmmakers / screenwriters.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
Super easy and convenient! Big fan of FilmFreeway!

10. What is your favorite meal?
A good ole' bacon burger with seasoned fries and a beer!

11. What is next for you? A new film?
Yes! Currently writing some new scripts. Figuring out which short is the next one I want to make! It's currently between a graphic horror movie set on a medical station in space or a dark comedy about an alcoholic vampire named Gene.