22: ABOUT THE FILM

Back in high school, I began my filmmaking career as a freelance videographer. I frequently filmed weddings, nonprofit promotion videos, events, sports, but my favorite shoots were for Mission Outdoors.
Mission Outdoors is a Washington-based nonprofit dedicated to bringing veterans together in the outdoors and inspiring hope back into their lives.
When I was tasked with creating a documentary short for my senior thesis at Chapman University, I contacted Ryan Elwell, the founder of Mission Outdoors, (and a good friend of mine) about the possibility of making my film. Ryan then connected me with Reg.
The months that followed were filled with enriching experiences where I was able to listen to powerful stories and meet incredible individuals dedicated to saving the lives of veterans in need. Every day in the United States, 22 veterans commit suicide. My film is about the importance of support for these veterans and ending the 22 a day.
STILLS FROM THE FILM
This project is one of my proudest achievements as a filmmaker.
I saw this film as an opportunity to showcase my skills as a versatile filmmaker. I acted as a "one-man-crew." I am the director, producer, cinematographer, editor, and everything in between. I learned through hands-on experience the importance of time management, proper planning, paperwork, budgeting, editing, color, sound design, and so much more. 22 is the culmination of hundreds of hours of work and an example of all that I have learned at film school . . .
and it was a lot of fun.
The thrill of leaning over the boat as we sped across the ocean to chasing veterans on ski bikes down the slopes, I loved every second of it. To me, one of the appeals of documentary filmmaking comes from the thrill of only having one take, and when that take relies only on me, the adrenaline gets pumping.
Of course, I could not have made this film without the help from the countless collaborators that have had an impact on my project. My classmates, Chapman University professors and faculty, friends at Mission Outdoors, and family all provided instrumental guidance throughout production. My film would not be the same without them.

Took a break from filming to check out what was for lunch during the Ilwaco Crabbing shoot!
