Short Films
Narratives at the Edge of Grief, Identity, and Awakening.
Lights. Camera. Muffins.
These two original short films below—Laid to Rest (2018) and The Muffin Man (2020)—were written, directed, scored, edited and produced during my time studying film at Montclair State University. Both pieces reflect my deep interest in character-driven storytelling, emotional interiority, and the metaphysical dimensions of human experience.
Laid to Rest is a quiet, melancholic exploration of grief, following a withdrawn artist whose unresolved sorrow manifests as cynicism and detachment. When he meets a woman with a disarming philosophical clarity, the evening becomes an unexpected confrontation with vulnerability, memory, and the possibility of healing.
The Muffin Man, by contrast, is a surreal detective story that blends Eastern mysticism with absurdist comedy. Inspired by Monty Python and spiritual allegory, it tells the tale of a detective who begins to unravel not just a case, but the very nature of his own identity—eventually awakening to the illusion of self and the dreamlike quality of the world around him.
Together, the films showcase my range as a storyteller—balancing intimate, emotional realism with stylized, conceptual play—and my experience directing actors, building tone, and crafting stories that invite both reflection and curiosity.
Disclaimer:
These short films were created as part of my undergraduate studies in film at Montclair State University. Any copyrighted music used was included solely for educational and non-commercial purposes. These works are shared here as part of a personal portfolio to demonstrate storytelling, direction, and production skills. All rights to the original musical compositions remain with their respective copyright holders.
