Exploring the themes of family, success, and generational trauma, this short film has an excellent cast to portray the characters, the writer and those who surround him. Written and directed by Austin Glasser and Luke Maddenwald, the film stars “Yellowstone” actors Jefferson White, Neal McDonough (“Tulsa King”), and Sara Paxton (Weapons, 2025, Aquamarine (2006), “Good Girls” TV series (2018-2019), Blonde (Netflix, 2022). Additional cast features Sherri Saum, (“The Fosters” 2013-2018), “Good Trouble” (2019 – 2024), and Kariana Karhu.
The Writer tells the tale of a self-isolated film-writer named Henry (Jefferson White), who is haunted by the ghost of his father (Neal McDonough) when he shuts himself away in their old fishing cabin. Egged on by his manipulative agent, Lynn (Sherri Saum), and recent success in the film industry, Henry works away at script after script for an action franchise he cares little about. His seclusion begins to take a toll on his relationship with his wife Zoe (Sara Paxton) and daughter Amber (Kariana Karhu), leading to an explosive conclusion where he confesses all his faults, fears, and regrets after all the time spent away from what he truly values.
I watched the film twice during the Austin Film Festival as I found the story to be engaging and authentic as the main character pursued his goals and yet found the many challenges he had to face to keep moving forward.
This quote was obtained with the press materials for the screenings at the Austin Film Festival. “We had the opportunity to film in Texas, and it just feels right that we get the chance to show in Texas as well,” said Writer and Director Austin Glasser. “My biggest wish for those who see the film is to not be afraid of following their dreams, but that they can always find another path to get there and that our happiness, along with the happiness of others, can be our greatest guide.” This is a very good explanation of the protagonist.
The Writer will be screening at the 2025 Lone Star Film Festival on Tuesday, November 4, at 4:45 p.m. inside the Modern (located at 3200 Darnell St, Fort Worth, TX 76107). The film will be included in the festival’s shorts block, followed by a Q&A.
Following the screening at the Lone Star Film Festival, the filmmakers plan to continue submitting the short to other festivals. For updates on future screenings, follow them on their official Instagram and Facebook.
Source: AFF and Lone Star Film Festival
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