QUESTION#1: Can you describe your film in one sentence?

A former cowboy turned astronomer discovers not only the expansion of the universe but also his place in it.

QUESTION#2: What would you like the BSFF audience to know about your film that they wouldn't consider from it's title?

THIS WILD ABYSS is not just a literal historical narrative, though it is based on a true story. The film is ultimately about the deep yearning we have to find meaning in our lives and to feel a part of something larger than ourselves. Anyone who has felt overlooked or unseen will find themselves in it.

QUESTION#3: Can you tell us about yourself and your filmmaking career?

I didn't set out to become filmmaker, honestly. My training and the beginning of my career were in the theater. I've worked with four directors whose work have won Tony Awards, at theaters that include The Public Theater and Shakespeare in the Park in New York City and the Mark Taper Forum in Los Angeles. But I've always been a writer, first as a playwright and now as a screenwriter. I didn't want to wait any longer to sell a script or series to a studio, instead deciding to make work with friends and artists I admire. The short films I've written and produced have come from a desire to just make something myself. I think it's really important for artists to generate their own work.

QUESTION#4: What have you learned in the process of making your film?

Nothing will ever go exactly as you plan and you have to adapt and move forward. The production was delayed several times because of covid. The historic locations where we filmed almost burned down in a wildfire before we shot. Even during production, you make comprises, you change lines, you allow the process to be fluid. You have to prepare meticulously but then not hold on tightly to expectation.

QUESTION#5: What's does the future hold for this film and you?

THIS WILD ABYSS will next play at the Poppy Jasper Film Festival in northern California and the Santa Fe Film Festival in New Mexico. The film will continue on the festival circuit throughout 2023. Thomas (our director) and I are planning to collaborate on another short film I've written called BOXES, dependent on funding. I also have a new feature film that my management company is currently taking out to producers, which (believe it or not) has a few scenes set in Borrego Springs.

@thiswildabyss @bymattcarlson @thomasmendolia