Pesticide, 7min,. USA
Directed by Justin Graham
An exterminator duels both late night insects and an overbearing car salesman.

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

It started as an exercise for my thesis pre-production studio course. The added difficulty of writing our short scripts was that each character could only be allotted 6 lines total. I had already brainstormed the visual of an exterminator at night and wanted to transform that into a comedic/cynical take on workplaces. My producer finding the free location of a car dealership acted as the largest inspiration for planning images that would push this central theme.

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

I started brainstorming and creating script drafts during late August-early September 2024, initial production took place in November 2024, and post-production occurred throughout December 2024-August 2025.

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

Good Drink/Cyclical Cynicism

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

The biggest obstacle was needing to completely rearrange our shooting schedule on the day due to mechanics still working in the garage when we arrived. Since we had 10 hours on a singular day to capture everything, my assistant director and crew went into overdrive. Their efficiency and professionalism saved the film. Completing the score additionally turned out to be another lengthy process.

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

My projects have never really been seen and criticized beyond my peers, friends, instructors, and family. Being presented with the thoughts of others outside my close bubble was both very intriguing and helpful. Having more eyes and criticism on any product can only lead to a more refined result, so I genuinely appreciated the different perspectives.

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

During my freshman year of high school, a few friends and I were given an assignment to recreate a scene from A Separate Peace. After that, we kept repeating the process of making our own original short videos. I decided that film school was the right path for me and continue to work on projects there.

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

Heat

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

Having an in-person event is always a plus!

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

Mostly positive with some small technical hiccups

10. What is your favorite meal?

Jack's pizza

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

I am in the process of completing post-production for my thesis film. I'll be spending spring in LA for my final semester and hopefully find some sort of career path through that experience.