Filmmaker Profile: But He's Gay by Michael Calciano
Welcome to the Bushwick Film Festival Q&A series, where we introduce you to the incredible filmmakers behind this year's lineup. Each of these talented storytellers has crafted a unique vision, reflecting diverse perspectives and powerful narratives that resonate deeply with audiences today. In this series, you'll get an inside look at what inspired their work, the challenges they faced, and the creative processes that brought their films to life. Through candid interviews, they share their thoughts on the impact of their films, the themes they explore, and their hopes for how audiences will connect with their stories. Whether you're here for drama, comedy, documentary, or experimental films, these filmmakers are sure to inspire you with their dedication and passion for the craft. We hope you enjoy getting to know the voices behind this year's festival as much as we have enjoyed bringing their films to our screens. Let’s dive into their stories!
…Maeve kills the vibe when she confronts her ex-boyfriend at a party...
Q&A WITH DIRECTOR MICHAEL CALCIANO
What inspired you to create this film, and how did the initial idea come to you?
The actual catalyst for the idea came from experiencing a considerably less dramatic version of what unfolds in the film— A friend of mine who was seemingly still hung up on her ex-boyfriend (five years after the relationship) who is now out as gay. It sort of haunted me that she could still have this wound after five years. It caused me to reflect on my own high-school girlfriend and my uncomfortability with that era in my life before I came out. The blurry lines of the situation and the question of where the blame should lay and what/who caused the most harm came up and felt like a movie to me!
What do you hope audiences will take away from watching your film?
I hope they’ll leave unsure of exactly who to side with. We start by assuming we have a clear cut villain but we end up seeing lots of questionable behavior from both sides. The fact is, there isn’t an easy answer. I think the once-straight-now-gay-ex-boyfriend is an almost universal experience and I want the nuance of that to shine through - especially in a time where we are constantly demanded to take sides.
Films are lasting artistic legacies; what do you want yours to say?
Absolutes make me angry. I think a lot of my films deal with questions that don’t have easy answers. I am constantly on the fence about things and I like to make movies that in that in-between whether in genre, subject, or the questions the films are posing.
What’s your history with the Bushwick Film Festival?
I was involved in 2018 with a short I wrote, Come Be Creepy With Us. We had an awesome time and I'm psyched to be back as a writer/director this year!
What’s the last film you watched?
Queer
Early bird or night owl?
Night owl slowly morphing into the early bird. It's true, they really do get the worm.
Michael Calciano is a NYC based filmmaker and writer. Always playing with genre, he makes uncanny and surreal horror and comedy films but especially loves to play in the delicious in-betweens. His films as both a writer and director have played internationally at film festivals including: Fantasia Film Festival, Brooklyn Horror Film Festival, Picture Farm Film Festival, Boston Underground, Bushwick Film Festival and more. His film work can currently be seen online on Short of the Week and Alter.
Thank you for joining us for this special Q&A with the filmmakers of the Bushwick Film Festival. We hope this conversation has given you insight into the artistry, dedication, and heart that went into bringing their films to life. Each of these creators represents the spirit of independent filmmaking—fearlessly telling stories that reflect the complexities of our world and the personal experiences that shape us. As you continue exploring this year’s lineup, we encourage you to dive deeper into these works and discover the powerful messages, emotions, and perspectives they offer. Whether you're a long-time supporter of indie films or a newcomer to the festival, your engagement and curiosity make all the difference in uplifting these voices. Stay tuned for more filmmaker spotlights, and we look forward to seeing you at this year’s screenings. Let’s continue celebrating the magic of storytelling together!
