In this episode, we sit down with filmmakers Travis Wood and Alex Mallis to talk about their latest project, The Travel Companion—a film that explores connection, distance, and the emotional landscapes we carry with us.

We dive into the origins of the film, the collaborative process behind bringing it to life, and the unique challenges of telling an intimate story on the move. Travis and Alex share insights into their creative partnership, the themes that shaped the film, and what they hope audiences take away from the journey.

Whether you’re a fan of indie cinema or curious about the storytelling process, this conversation offers an honest and engaging look behind the scenes of The Travel Companion.

The Travel Companion is a thoughtful and intimate exploration of human connection set against the backdrop of movement and transition. The film follows its characters as they navigate physical journeys that mirror their internal struggles, revealing the complexities of relationships shaped by time, distance, and change.

With a grounded, naturalistic style, the film captures fleeting moments of vulnerability and quiet reflection, inviting audiences to consider what it means to truly accompany someone—whether for a moment or a lifetime.

Balancing emotional depth with understated storytelling, The Travel Companion is a meditation on companionship, solitude, and the spaces in between.

The Travel Companions is screening at BAM NY in Brooklyn April 10-16

In this episode, we sit down with writer Eliza Power and director Philip Clyde-Smith to talk about their short film A Hand to Hold. Together, they unpack the story’s emotional core, exploring the themes of connection, vulnerability, and what it means to truly show up for someone in moments of need.

Eliza shares the inspiration behind the script and how the story evolved from page to screen, while Philip offers insight into his directorial approach and the challenges of bringing such an intimate narrative to life. From creative collaboration to behind-the-scenes experiences, the conversation highlights the care and intention that shaped A Hand to Hold.

Tune in for an honest and thoughtful discussion about storytelling, filmmaking, and the human experiences at the heart of it all.

A Hand to Hold is a poignant short film that follows a deeply personal moment between two individuals, capturing the quiet power of human connection in times of emotional uncertainty. Through subtle performances and an intimate lens, the film reflects on support, presence, and the impact of even the smallest gestures.

In this exclusive episode, we sit down with the creative minds behind the short film THE NOVEL — director Kellen Gibbs and actors Kaprise Colvin and Jordan Knapp.

We dive into the inspiration behind the film, the collaborative process on set, and the challenges of bringing such a layered story to life in a feature format. From character development to the emotional core of the narrative, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at how THE NOVEL came together.

Whether you’re a fan of indie filmmaking or curious about the creative process, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

THE NOVEL is a compelling feature film directed by Kellen Gibbs, exploring the blurred lines between reality and storytelling.

Featuring powerful performances by Ka’Prise Colvin and Jordan Knapp, the film delves into themes of identity, perception, and the narratives we create for ourselves. Through an intimate and thought-provoking lens, THE NOVEL invites audiences to question what is real, what is imagined, and where the two intersect.

With its layered storytelling and emotional depth, THE NOVEL leaves a lasting impression long after the final frame.

In this episode of 1st on Film, we sit down with Andrew Bachelor—better known as King Bach—to talk about his latest project, Hate the Player: The Ben Johnson Story on Paramount+.

Blending satire with sharp cultural commentary, the mockumentary takes a fresh and comedic look at one of the most controversial figures in sports history. Bach opens up about stepping into this unique role, the challenges of balancing humor with real-world events, and why mockumentary storytelling continues to resonate with audiences today.

We also dive into his journey from internet pioneer to mainstream actor, the evolution of comedy in the digital age, and what’s next for him as a creator.

Hate the Player: The Ben Johnson Story is a satirical mockumentary that reexamines the rise and fall of Olympic sprinter Ben Johnson through a comedic and contemporary lens.

The series blends archival-style storytelling with fictionalized interviews, media commentary, and over-the-top reenactments to explore themes of fame, scandal, and public perception. By leaning into absurdity while staying grounded in real events, the show challenges viewers to question how narratives are shaped—and who gets to control them.

With a sharp script and standout performances led by Andrew Bachelor, the series delivers both laughs and thought-provoking commentary on sports culture and media sensationalism.

Streaming exclusively on Paramount+.

Andrew Bachelor is a Canadian-American actor, comedian, and digital creator who rose to prominence as one of the most-followed personalities on the now-defunct app Vine.

Known for his high-energy comedic style and sharp timing, Bach successfully transitioned from internet fame to mainstream entertainment, landing roles in films such as Meet the Blacks and series like Black Jesus. His work often blends physical comedy with social satire, making him a standout voice in modern comedy.

Beyond acting, Bach has built a reputation as a versatile creator—producing, writing, and starring in projects that reflect his unique comedic perspective. With Hate the Player: The Ben Johnson Story, he continues to expand his range, taking on more layered roles while staying true to his comedic roots.

In this episode, we sit down with Nathan Engelhardt and Jeremy Spears, the visionary filmmakers behind the Oscar-nominated animated short film Forevergreen. Together, they break down the creative journey behind one of this year’s most visually and emotionally striking animated projects.

From developing the film’s unique visual style to crafting a story that resonates without limits, they take us inside the animation process and the ideas that shaped Forevergreen. We also discuss the road to the Academy Awards, what the nomination means to them, and how the film stands out in a highly competitive field.

In this episode of 1st on Film, we sit down with filmmaker Luke Angus, the director behind the short film Solstice.

Luke takes us inside the creative process behind the film, from its earliest inspiration to the challenges of bringing it to life on screen. We explore the themes at the heart of Solstice, the visual storytelling choices that define its tone, and what it means to craft a compelling narrative in the short film format.

Along the way, Luke shares insights into directing, collaborating with a cast and crew, and navigating the independent film landscape. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker or just love discovering new voices in cinema, this conversation offers an honest and thoughtful look at the art of filmmaking.

🎬 Tune in for a deep dive into Solstice and the mind behind it.

Solstice is a contemplative short film that explores themes of transition, identity, and emotional reckoning. Set against a shifting seasonal backdrop, the story follows a character at a pivotal turning point—caught between what was and what comes next.

Through atmospheric visuals and restrained storytelling, the film captures the quiet intensity of change, using light, time, and environment as reflections of inner conflict. Solstice invites viewers to sit in moments of uncertainty and transformation, offering a poetic meditation on growth, loss, and renewal.

With a focus on mood and character, Solstice demonstrates how short-form storytelling can deliver a deeply immersive and emotionally resonant experience.

Luke Angus is an emerging filmmaker known for his visually driven storytelling and focus on intimate, character-centered narratives. His work often explores themes of change, identity, and the emotional complexities of human experience.

With a strong interest in atmosphere and tone, Luke blends naturalistic performances with carefully crafted visuals to create films that are both grounded and evocative. Solstice represents his continued exploration of storytelling through mood and symbolism, highlighting his voice as a director to watch in the independent film scene.

As he continues to develop new projects, Luke remains focused on telling honest, visually compelling stories that resonate on a personal level.

Fresh off the red carpet at the Canadian Film Fest, we sit down with actor-turned-director Scott Anthony Cavalheiro to talk about his bold feature directorial debut, Plan C.

Plan C is a gritty, high-stakes crime thriller that marks the feature directorial debut of Scott Anthony Cavalheiro.

The film follows siblings on the run after a robbery spirals out of control, launching them into a desperate and dangerous journey. As the situation intensifies, moral lines blur and survival becomes the only priority. At the center of the chaos is a shocking hostage situation inside a plastic surgery clinic, where life-or-death decisions unfold in real time.

Scott Anthony Cavalheiro is a Canadian actor and filmmaker from Bradford, Ontario. He is best known for his role as Adam Hawkins on the TV series Good Witch, along with appearances in shows like Schitt’s Creek and Mary Kills People.

Originally studying neuroscience at York University, Cavalheiro transitioned into acting before expanding into writing and directing. Plan C (2026) marks his feature directorial debut, premiering on the festival circuit before its Canadian debut at the Canadian Film Fest.

In this episode of 1st on Film, we sit down with Nicole Alyse Nelson to talk about her latest short film, a fresh take on a Jane Austen-inspired period drama. Nicole shares what drew her to the project, how she approached bringing a classic tone to life, and the creative challenges of working within the short film format.

We also dive deeper into her journey as an actor—exploring her career beginnings, standout roles, and the lessons she’s learned navigating the industry. It’s an insightful conversation about storytelling, performance, and carving out a voice in today’s film landscape.