Filmmaker Christian Baldonado chatted about writing and directing the short film “Grief Trip,” where he worked with Jake Galluccio and Vishay V. Singh.
The synopsis is: 21-year-old Luis (Jake Galluccio) embarks on a cross-country journey to fulfill his late mother’s last wish: to have her ashes scattered at a beach they once loved.
Along the way, he picks up Josiah (Vishay V. Singh), a spirited hitchhiker with secrets of his own. As the miles roll by, their friendship deepens, but tensions rise when hidden wounds come to the surface.
When Luis discovers that Josiah is also on a journey shadowed by grief and unresolved family pain, the two are forced to confront their deepest fears.
What inspired you to write and direct “Grief Trip”?
I wrote “Grief Trip” because I lost my mom at a really young age. It wasn’t until I started writing that I realized how much of myself I’ve kept locked up and suppressed because I refused to let myself continue live outside of my own grief.
What did this screenplay teach you about yourself?
The script itself showed me how much pain and suffering I self-inflicted because I refused to open up emotionally to anyone.
This script broke me free from my own prison of grief, guilt, and plenty of other emotions I refused to let surface.
What was it like working with Jake Galluccio and Vishay Singh as your two male leads?
Jake and Vishay were a blessing! Seriously, I couldn’t ask for a better pair of actors. Both clicked instantly on set and made this such a fun and exciting process- out of the hundreds of submissions I’d received, I knew instantly it would be those two.
What was your favorite part of the filmmaking process?
My absolute favorite process is seeing all the prep work and storyboards turn into something tangible.
In filmmaking, the final film is the third version of the original idea: you have the film in your head, the one on paper, and then the final product and boy did I get lucky!
What do your plans for the future include?
I just recently moved to Portland, Oregon, to focus on a new project based in the PNW. I hope to continue making projects that resonate with viewers and I am hoping to work with my amazing cast and crew again.
What is your advice for young and emerging filmmakers?
Filmmakers- don’t give up. This industry can feel impossible to break into but it’s a journey. If you truly are passionate you will succeed.
Be the biggest believer in yourself and remember every “no” is one step closer to a “yes.”
Were there any moments in your career that have helped define you?
I think there have been many great moments so far- the awards, the community I’ve built, and working alongside amazing people.
If I had to choose one, it would be hearing people’s stories about how my work has resonated with them and has helped them through their own journey with grief.
What does the word success mean to you?
Success to me is creating something that I’m passionate about, always persevering and growing into a stronger artist in my craft.
What would you like to say to our readers about “Grief Trip”? (What’s the one thing you want them to get out of it)
“Grief Trip” is for everyone. Grief is something so universal yet feels so personal. It can tear down the strong willed and make them feel alone.
You are not alone; everyone has a story and when we lead with empathy and compassion, we can lead great lives. Reach out to those around you and build each other up.
To learn more about director, screenwriter, and filmmaker Christian Baldonado, follow him on Instagram.
Read More: “Grief Trip” review.
