Wilderness Quest
A teen’s solo journey through a spiritual rite of passage tragically changes the trajectory of his life.
Interview with Writer/Director/Producer/Editor Kelly Needleman
Congratulations! Why did you make your film?
I wanted to make this film to spread awareness about important topics in today's society such as bullying and social anxiety.
Imagine I’m a member of the audience. Why should I watch this film?
It will give you a different perspective on issues in today's world.
How have the script and film evolved over the course of their development?
During production, I had a very specific vision for my film, but I learned how to let the movie develop organically during the process of shooting. I asked the actors to own their role and bring out a little of their own personality traits to make for a more natural performance. The collaboration process energized the group and we worked from sunrise to sunset to bring my script to fruition.
What type of feedback have you received so far?
Everything has been positive so far. People are yearning to see more.
Has the feedback surprised or challenged your point of view?
I didn't expect the amount of support and shares I received. I am very thankful for all the kind messages.
What are you looking to achieve by having your film more visible on www.wearemovingstories.com?
I really want to share and spread awareness of important topics in society. People need to see this film because it may change their viewpoints and outlooks on certain topics.
Who do you need to come on board (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists) to amplify this film’s message?
Distributors, and film festival directors
What type of impact and/or reception would you like this film to have?
I hope this film provokes a conversation about the impact that bullying may have on certain individuals with social anxiety.
What’s a key question that will help spark a debate or begin a conversation about this film?
How can we as a society prevent bullying?
Would you like to add anything else?
Thank you for taking the time to ask me these questions and sharing this film!
What other projects are the key creatives developing or working on now?
I am in the midst of pre-production for my film Lost Visibility. Lost Visibility is a prelude to a feature concept. The logline is: Maybe they weren't as close as they thought they were. Three friends share lucid dreams that bring their secrets to reality.
Interview: November 2019
We Are Moving Stories embraces new voices in drama, documentary, animation, TV, web series, music video, women's films, LGBTQIA+, POC, First Nations, scifi, supernatural, horror, world cinema. If you have just made a film - we'd love to hear from you. Or if you know a filmmaker - can you recommend us? More info: Carmela
Wilderness Quest
A teen’s solo journey through a spiritual rite of passage tragically changes the trajectory of his life.
Length: 5:34
Director: Kelly Needleman
Producer: Kelly Needleman
Writer: Kelly Needleman
About the writer, director and producer:
KELLY NEEDLEMAN is a 17-year-old film director, producer, actor, photographer and entrepreneur based in California.
Key cast: Elijah Pinkham (Shamus), Brian Whiteley (Cooper), Jaia Foster (Alex), Jenifer Cote (Jessica)
Looking for: buyers, distributors, film festival directors
Facebook: Wilderness Quest
Twitter: @kellyneedleman_
Instagram: @wildernessquestmovie, @kellyneedleman
Hashtags used: thriller, short film, horror, drama, nature, narrative film, California, woods
Other: IMDb
Funders: Self-funded
Where can I watch it next and in the coming month? Watch the film on Vimeo.