1. What was one of the most challenging moments you faced while making Dad? Did this ‘setback’ change the direction of the final story?
I always knew the story that I wanted to make. The most challenging aspect of making this film was the approach to interviewing the kids. I had to consider when the appropriate time to interview them was after their dad, Brandon’s, death. I decided to wait 3 to 4 years, as that seemed like a good timespan for the kids to take in what happened, but also for them to mature. As time went on, I quite often thought whether or not I should even do the project. Ultimately, it really was how much the kids kept on taking about their dad that kept me on the right track. But also a literal response to this question is that the most challenging aspect of making this film is trying to keep a kid still when they’re being interviewed.

2. What was the biggest inspiration behind Dad?
I had many inspirations for this project, which is what makes me very proud of it. The biggest one is my family. My sister Shae, and Brandon started the awareness, my parents were such huge supporters during it all, and the children, my nieces and nephew, were always so strong throughout the diagnosis. I always felt I make projects to help cope with grief, so I knew that my role in raising awareness should be through my passion of filmmaking. 

3. What message do you want the audience to take away from Dad?
While I hope that audiences have a strong emotional response to the film and recognise a father’s love of his children, and the children’s love of him, for me the biggest message I want audiences to takeaway is the terrifying reality of brain cancer. My family and I were so shocked and angry as we learned more about it. At times, you couldn’t help but feel hopeless. For me personally, I felt so stupid when I was first told about Brandon’s diagnosis, because I was saying to myself “Brain Cancer?”, it just didn’t seem like it was a real thing. Day by day as you learn about it, you realize just how terrifying it is. 

4. Given how close this documentary is to you, at any point did you feel like you should stop? If so, how did you overcome this to complete the film and ultimately share this touching story?

I had immense guilt throughout the entire production, as I always questioned whether it was an appropriate thing to create. But what kept me going was that I knew I needed to make it, and there were ways, even creative ways, to protect the children while allowing them to be completely honest. It also helps so much that I was so well supported by my family and crew. We all knew this was something that needed to be made, ensuring we don’t stop raising awareness. On a personal and proud note, the audiences reception has been gratifying as it solidifies my intentions and overall message.