I wrote and produced this historical drama, set in the tumultuous era of turn-of-the-century North Carolina, focusing on three young people who stand against the rising tide of hate and violence. The narrative is centered around the lead-up to the Wilmington coup of 1898.
Touching on themes of love, friendship, racism, and power, the film explores the dangerous intersections of media and political influence, revealing the destructive potential when these forces align. Our story emphasizes the human spirit’s resilience in the face of overwhelming adversity.
I conducted in-depth research on the coup era, and drew upon the expertise of Dr. Troy Kickler, a distinguished scholar of North Carolina history. The main characters in the film, while fictional, were inspired by real figures who lived during this time.
By grounding the narrative in factual events and personalities, the film aims to bring authenticity and emotional depth to the story, shedding light on the personal struggles and courageous acts of those who stood up against the forces of hate and violence.
“Thoroughly engrossing and powerful. A
Nadine Strossen, former president of the ACLU
thought-provoking interlocking of past
and present. This film will go a long way
toward raising awareness of this tragic
and overlooked moment in history.”
Film Festival Run
“In the Pines” was showcased in over 40 prestigious festivals, receiving widespread acclaim and numerous awards. Its journey through these festivals not only underscored the film’s exceptional storytelling and production values but also marked it as a standout short film on the global stage. The film’s success is a testament to the creative vision and hard work of its team, leaving a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.
Notable Awards and Recognitions
- Best Drama – Benelux International Film Festival, Amsterdam
- Best Short Short Feature – Nyack International Film Festival, NY
- Best Short Drama – Halicarnassus Film Festival, Turkey
- Best Short Film – Wake Forest Film Festival, Wake Forest, NC
- Best Film – Golden Hour Film Festival, Morganton, NC
- Best Actor (John Potvin) – Golden Hour Film Festival, Morganton, NC
- Best Actress (Pandora Broadwater) – Golden Hour Film Festival, Morganton, NC
- Best Ensemble Performance – Foothills Film Festival, Shelby, NC
- Best Period Film – Southern California International Film Festival, San Diego, CA
- Best Supporting Actor (Robbie Allen) – Southern California International Film Festival, San Diego, CA
- Best Short Producer – Nashville Independent Filmmakers Festival
- Best Costumes – Pupila Film Festival, Olinda, Brazil
- Best Drama – Southern Shorts Awards, Roswell, GA
- Best Production Design – Southern Shorts Awards, Roswell, GA
- Best Costume Design – Southern Shorts Awards, Roswell, GA
- Best Trailer – Raleigh Film & Art Festival, Raleigh, NC
- Semi-Finalist – Miami Short Film Festival, Miami, FL
- Best Short Film (Nomination) – HB Film Festival, Paisley, Scotland
- Best Costumes (Nomination) – HB Film Festival, Paisley, Scotland
- Best Makeup (Nomination) – HB Film Festival, Paisley, Scotland
- Best Editing (Runner-Up) – Golden Hour Film Festival, Morganton, NC
- Best Cinematography (Runner-Up) – Golden Hour Film Festival, Morganton, NC
