AN ENDING, 7min., USA
Directed by Sarah Young
Based on a true love story, and shot on location in Queens NYC during the heart of the Covid 19 Pandemic, this film is a tribute to those who stayed and those who had to go.

https://christopherfcosta.com/#an-ending
https://www.instagram.com/thisismecfc/

Get to know producer Christopher F. Costa:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

The pandemic had been happening, and Brian I struck a deal and decided to move. We were living in a one-bedroom apartment and Brian was also working from home. It wasn't a lot of space, and our windows faced walls. We had also been restless and itchy. I missed being creative, especially with my peers. I missed connection and collaboration. I missed being connected to others in my group–and the city, frankly.

When I had the chance to sneak out onto the fire escape and up to the roof, it felt like I could finally have some space–and breathe. There was usually almost no one else up there. But also, I could see across Queens and the Manhattan skyline. Sometimes I'd spot others on their own rooftops. And then there was always one moment that made me feel connected to others. That was 7PM when we would cheer and clang pots and make noise for all the first responders. You could hear people making noise and cheering from far and wide. It was magical, it was full of gratitude, and I always felt connected to my home.

I reached out to Joey and Sarah and asked if they wanted to do a thing. I told them we had a full and empty apartment to use, and my husband and I as actors. I know I wanted to include that moment on the rooftop at the end, and the feeling of up and out–and home. Sarah was in to direct and Joey said he could draft something up for a short film. And we were off!

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

Almost four years.

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

Finding home

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

Getting through all the brand new COVID SAG-AFTRA regulations was an obstacle course. We had to make sure we were tested, masked, and had a COVID Officer (which our dear producer friend Jonathan stepped in and did for us).

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

It was so heartening and touching to hear how people were moved by the film. Even without dialogue, the story was clear and gave an unexpected ending that left people with hope. And to hear that was a gift.

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

My whole life, I was a nerd, loving math and science in school. I didn't decide to study acting till halfway through undergrad, and it's been quite the journey. But, I did take photography for two years in high school and loved being behind the camera. I also was raised watching movies thanks to my mother. We watched every kind of film, many of them which I shouldn't have watched till probably a much older age. But that lifetime of film-watching and film-loving has now led me to where I am today–finally producing my first film. Onward and upward!

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

This is a hard one because I will watch a movie to death, over and over (especially in my youth). They're like friends. If we remove the 90s Disney canon because it will throw off the curve (Aladdin, The Lion King, etc.), I would think it's probably my favorite(s), Alien and Aliens, that or The Sound of Music.

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

Honestly, getting the feedback was such a unique and rewarding experience. I wish more festivals implemented that.

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

It has been very easy to use and navigate!

10. What is your favorite meal?

The one I made this weekend for the first time in a long time–lasagna.

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

I have a couple short films I acted in, one which is currently making the rounds in the festival circuit–Hot Idiot–and the other which should be there soon–Pining. I'm starting to write for the first time, so I'm also looking forward to choosing my next project I want to produce (which I also hope to co-direct).