Academy Award winner Troy Kotsur has paid a moving tribute to his father in his new short documentary “To My Father.”
The short had its world premiere on June 8th at the Tribeca Film Festival in Manhattan.
Kotsur won the 2022 Academy Award for “Best Supporting Actor” for “CODA,” and he made history in becoming the first male Deaf actor to accomplish this milestone.
“To My Father” was written and directed by Sean Schiavolin. It was produced by John Papola, Troy Kotsur, and Justin Bergeron; DP Brody Carmichael was responsible for the cinematography. It follows Kotsur’s journey to winning an Academy Award, and his father’s inspiring influence on him, despite a tragic accident.
Leonard “Len” Kotsur was the police chief of Mesa, Arizona, and his two other sons could hear.
When a young Troy asks his father why he is Deaf in the film, he acknowledged that “no one knows” but “God has a reason.” His father did not perceive his as Deaf, instead he saw him as an individual that is capable.
His father reminded him to not ignore his spark in life, and to subsequently let his spark follow him wherever he goes.
“To My Father” will sustain the viewer’s attention for its entire duration, and at the end, the audience will wish it was longer, as they cry for joy. It digs beyond the surface and explains how his father shaped him into the man, actor, and family person that he is today.
Troy Kotsur’s life story is an inspiration to us all, especially as a person who was able to go beyond the ordinary, and redefine contemporary cinema into what it is today.
“To My Father” is the quintessential film for Father’s Day weekend, and it garners an A rating.
Read More: Oscar winner Troy Kotsur and filmmakers talk about their documentary ‘To My Father’
