The Last Houseboat, 31min., USA
Directed by Colin D'Amelio
The Last Houseboat is a heartfelt short documentary that delves into the history of a unique wooden vessel, lovingly crafted by a family patriarch in 1970. Anchored on the Rhode Island coast for over 50 years, the houseboat became more than a structure—it was a landmark, a cherished family tradition, and a symbol of connection across three generations. When unforeseen circumstances force the family to dismantle the beloved vessel, they confront a profound sense of loss while celebrating its enduring legacy. A poignant tale of resilience, memory, and the ties that bind, The Last Houseboat invites viewers to reflect on the traditions and stories that shape their own families.

https://www.instagram.com/cdproducshins/

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

I've been in love with the Houseboat and everything it represents since I first set foot on it as a child. It felt like a true escape from the world—an experience unlike any other. From the start, I believed this vessel had a beautiful story that deserved to be told. Having always been close to the Sola family, who own this beloved houseboat, my initial goal was simply to create a short piece as a keepsake for them—a tribute to their tradition. But that idea quickly evolved, growing into The Last Houseboat, a deeply personal short documentary spanning over 30 minutes.

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

This film was truly a labor of love. Some of the earliest footage dates back to 2016, originally shot for a different project before being archived. Over nearly a decade, this documentary took shape—built through years of gathering resources, footage, and stories to bring it to life.

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

Family Traditions

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

CD Productions is based on the West Coast, while this film primarily takes place on the East Coast, where most of its subjects live. The greatest challenge was navigating the distance and coordinating with four or five different family members to gather assets—whether photos, videos, texts, or phone calls. Managing logistics across time zones and locations added an extra layer of complexity to the process.

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

Hearing that feedback was incredibly rewarding. It brought a smile to our faces to know that people truly understood what we set out to achieve with this film—that at its core, it’s a story about family, even more than it is about the boat itself.

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

I've been obsessed with films since I was a kid. My dad would introduce me to classics on TCM, and I would create short films for school projects—whether or not that was what the assignment called for. While my passion truly took shape in college, where I honed my skills, filmmaking has always been a constant in my life and a driving force behind everything I do.

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

That’s a hard one. The Blues Brothers is up there. Grease. But it’s most likely a Christmas movie, The Muppet’s Christmas Carol or Home Alone are probably tied.

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 you offer a lot for filmmakers, and I appreciate everything you do. I think first and foremost it’s always important to have in-person events to be able to meet and collaborate with our fellow filmmakers.

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

FilmFreeway is a great site. Everything is centrally located and easily accessible.

10. What is your favorite meal?

I’m a meat and potatoes kind of guy.

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

So many things! I’m always writing and collaborating on new projects. Our next big venture is a narrative short film about a Deacon who begins to question his faith following the death of his wife. We plan to launch a crowdfunding campaign soon, with hopes of starting production by the end of this year or early next year.