With access to more creative outlets for LGBTQ+ filmmakers comes great progressive storytelling.
When Remy invites Joey to train together, they form a friendly bond while facing their unique challenges.
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DEADLINE:What kickstarted your idea for the short film?
Remy (Beck Williams) in PaceJared Hawkley/Beck Williams
BECK WILLIAMS:A couple of things came together at the same time.
I taught them boxing and trained them, and we became close friends.
So, at one point, I just remember thinking, I love boxing.
Beck WilliamsBeck Williams
Im such a martial arts nerd.
I felt like I didnt know where to turn or what to look for.
Its hard for both people.
Thats what I wanted to dive into.
DEADLINE:Lets talk a little more about the boxing aspect.
Why parse out the story this way?
WILLIAMS:Im just a martial arts nerd.
Ive done it for around 20 years, but only boxing for the last six years.
So, I liked that as the backdrop because its a personal pursuit.
And no matter whats going on in your life, you might always challenge yourself.
WILLIAMS:Anytime I can be in a queer space, its very special.
I feel it builds even more of a common understanding.
And we dont all go through the same thing.
Theres a [commonality] trap, where its like, Oh.
A queer film is blank.
And its like, No.
Queer Cinema could be so many things.
There are many universal stories, so its been special to share these moments.
WithPacespecifically, Ive had people who completely relate to it and have said, Oh my gosh.
I feel like Ive been seen for the first time.
DEADLINE: What were some fun, creative challenges in bringing your directorial short film debut?
Also, I was so lucky to work with our DP,Leo Behrens.
Bringing him on and becoming friends with him was when it started to feel very real.
It is always hard, but its all about preparation.
DEADLINE: The characters here are very interesting.
Can you talk more about creating these two characters and their dynamic?
WILLIAMS:You hit the nail on the head when you say Remys avoidant.
I think that is their biggest flaw.
Joey is more forthcoming and expressive.
Even if he is shy, he opens up to Remy pretty early.
You dont have to have all the answers.
I think the biggest thing in this film is that you dont have to have all the answers.
Its an ongoing journey.
And to be in the middle of a journey is hard because you dont have answers.
Then, he finally tries to get Remy to open up, and Remy does.
So, they swap.
Its this even balance between them that theyre both there for each other.
Its not really just a mentorship for one person or the other.
They equally help each other move through with their friendship.
What would you like Hollywood to get from a short film like this?
I wanted to show a couple of things.
Its also completely understandable for a partner to have a difficult time.
And its not about love lost necessarily.
Every situation is going to be different, but I think its important to not have resentment.
Vanessa is not resentful of Remy.
If anything, she completely understands, but of course, its going to be hard for her too.
But they both love each other.
And its hard because you think, Oh.
Its just a very difficult situation.
I think its important.
Theyre part of the journey.
We dont always get to hear whats going on with them.
I want to be supportive, but no ones supporting me.
I think both people need to be supported.
You dont usually talk about marital stuff much, generally.
But this situation was a whole other topic that we dont know anyone else who went through.
