Longing For A Goodbye

1. What was one of the most challenging moments you faced while making Longing for a Goodbye? Did this ‘setback’ change the direction of the final story?

One of the most challenging moments was probably filming in the Foodland / shops. We were given a maximum of one hour in the shop, including bump-in and bump-out time with our crew of 5, and we had our lovely 80-year-old actor, John Graham, trying to quickly learn the blocking of the scenes whilst we were rushing with our makeup, costumes, and set design. Additionally, one of our crew members locked their keys in their car, which contained vital gear, just 10 minutes prior to bumping in. Thankfully, we were able to resolve and get everything we needed but looking back on it, there were details I think we would change, as it did impact some audience perspective on what happened in the scene.

2. What was the biggest inspiration behind Longing for a Goodbye?

The biggest inspiration behind Longing for a Goodbye was my grandparents and how their love was affected by dementia. My grandpa was diagnosed with Frontotemporal dementia when I was eleven, and watching the dramatic switch between my grandparents’ relationship, but also how my own immediate family coped with it, laid a foundation for the story.

3. What message do you want the audience to take away from Longing for a Goodbye?

I want the short film to open more of a perspective on the topic and for audience members who have either been diagnosed with, or are closely witnessing and aiding the affected, in knowing that they are not alone in this experience, no matter how isolating it may feel.