MATCH DAY, 14min., USA, Family
Directed by Clay Randel
After watching her favorite team lose in dramatic fashion, a young soccer fan must navigate the stages of loss with the help of her recently divorced father.

http://www.clayrandel.com/matchday
https://www.instagram.com/clay.film.foto/

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

Two years ago the sports world paused while Covid redefined our society. After months of anticipation, live sports came back and though it looked and felt different, I was overjoyed with the return of something familiar, my fandom. My optimism and expectations were quickly crushed while I watched my team give listless performances on the way to unexpected losses. I was confused and devastated. This experience is the inspiration that led to me writing the script “Match Day.” What originally started as a bitterly comedic script about a grown man navigating his own fandom turned into a story about individuals confronting their own emotions. I wanted to show the absurdity of fandom, and the spiraling that happens when something or someone you love tarnishes expectations. Everyone in life experiences loss, it comes in a myriad of shapes and sizes and that is what this story is about, a father and daughter helping each other navigate the grief they are each experiencing.

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

2 years.

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

Happy-sad

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

Working on this while juggling other projects. It can be tough to get momentum going when you are working on multiple projects.

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

I was blown away by the positive reactions. I honestly had to pause the video because I wasn’t expecting so many kind words and such understanding of the story.

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

At 16 years old.

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

The Dark Knight.

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

Nothing I can think of right now.

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

It’s been an overall great experience. Great communication and organization.

10. What is your favorite meal?

A good sandwich, side of fries, and a beer.

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

I’m working on a couple scripts right now, and hope to be filming a new project next summer