THE LETTER, 6min., USA
Directed by Ruben Rodas
A daughter comes to terms with the loss of her father with a heartfelt farewell letter …

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Get to know writer/actor Irene Stepanenko:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
My motivation to create this film stemmed from a deep desire to honor my father for the immense love, care, and unwavering support he provided me throughout my life.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
The idea for the film came to me two months after my father's passing on May 26, 2021. I wrote the script as a monologue on July 27, 2021—our shared birthday. That day, alone in a Dallas hotel, I began writing a heartfelt letter to him, which later became the script. I held onto the monologue for a couple of years. When I shared it with my dear friend Ruben, a talented producer and videographer, he immediately connected with my vision. Our collaborative efforts led us to shoot the film at a beautiful location by the end of last summer. Overall, the journey from concept to completion took about two years.

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

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
Honestly, since meeting Ruben, I felt confident that we would create this film together, and everything proceeded very smoothly.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
My eyes teared up within the first ten seconds of listening to the feedback. I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude and contentment.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
My passion for acting and movies began in childhood. I performed in theater from an early age and continued to nurture my love for acting through courses and various projects even as I pursued other professional paths. I had written monologues before, but this one was special—it was a tribute to my father and I knew it needed to be brought to the screen.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
Growing up in Russia, I watched many dramas. Since moving to the US eight years ago, I've explored a wide range of films. However, the movie "I Origins" is one I've watched more times than any other.

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 would love to see organized, in-person premieres of films. The most valuable part of the festival experience for me is witnessing the genuine reactions of the audience and engaging in dialogues with them. Cinematography has the power to amplify voices, change perspectives, and foster connections and unity.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experience been working on the festival platform site?
My experience with FilmFreeway was smooth, especially since it was my first time using the platform. One challenge I encountered was distinguishing between legitimate festivals and identifying those with in-person screenings, which I preferred.

10. What is your favorite meal?
Anything my grandmother cooks, especially her cabbage vareniki and syrniki.

11. What is next for you? A new film?
I have several ideas for future projects. My goal is to create beautiful and meaningful films that touch the hearts of others, fill the world with love, and embrace both light and dark moments.