Small Money, Big Film

The whole time I was watching The New Year, I couldn’t stop thinking “This can’t be the same director I spoke with who made his film for only $8000.” But it was! Director, writer and producer Brett Haley indeed made this poignant, well-made film for next to nothing. Making the film in his hometown of Pensacola enabled Haley to do what he wouldn’t have been able to do in New York where he currently lives. The film, about a young woman who makes the choice to put her life’s dreams aside to return home to take care of her sick father was moving and thought-provoking. Haley co-wrote the film with his sister-in-law Elizabeth Kennedy. Haley said his film is about being “home again” – a sort of “love letter to where I grew up.” Haley drew his inspiration for the film from his own love of home and family, but having dreams and aspirations that don’t fit his hometown.

Actress Trieste Dunn did an excellent job portraying the conflicting emotions of a young woman put in a box – making the best of a situation she wouldn’t choose, yet missing the life she would have chosen. Haley predicts Dunn’s talent will take her far. The two are already continuing to plan more work together. Haley is also working on an adaptation of Jim Shepard’s novel, Project X. Dunn also plays in a second film in the Sarasota Film Festival, Cold Weather. Based on Dunn’s performance in The New Year, I recommend catching a glimpse of her talent in Cold Weather which will be screened on Friday, April 16 at 5:15 pm at Sunday April 18 at 4:15pm.

Both Haley and Dunn are in Sarasota for the festival. The production of The New Year is truly a testament of how a filmmaker can achieve his aspirations, making quality films with little money. Kudos to Haley!

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