Filmmaker Profile: David Again by Adam Elliot
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!
A lifelong New Yorker conquers addiction and finds redemption, with the help of a friend.
Q&A WITH DIRECTOR ADAM ELLIOT
What inspired you to create this film, and how did the initial idea come to you?
The subject of our film, David Dennis was actually my next door neighbor in New York City. When I first met him, I was instantly taken by his candor and wit, his unwavering humility, and his desire to share his story with me. His signature style also stood out to me. As two native New Yorkers, we connected on our shared love for our city. As I got to know David, I learned about his lifelong battle with drug and alcohol addiction, and his long road to recovery. I also learned who his best friend was: Jon Cryer. I learned that Jon’s character of Duckie from “Pretty in Pink” was actually inspired by David. Not only this, but Jon also wrote a film about his friendship with David called “Went to Coney Island on a Mission from God…Be Back by Five.” I realized the story of their friendship had transcended into the art world, which I found to be a rare and beautiful thing, and something well worth documenting.
Describe who you want this film to reach.
David was really excited about this film. I think it’s because he saw the film as a continuation of providing service, something he was deeply committed to in his own recovery. And in the months following his passing, I learned about all the people David helped in the rooms. The sentiment, “he saved my life” has come up several times. And knowing David like I do, that doesn’t surprise me at all. So I do hope the film reaches those who may have been impacted by addiction, either personally or through a loved one, and to know it really is never too late to ask for help.
What do you hope audiences will take away from watching your film?
I believe David’s story offers the promise that no matter what you may be struggling with, it is never too late to ask for help, or to ask for forgiveness. This is also a story about the power of friendship, and what it means to support those close to you so they can realize their unique potential.
What was a big challenge you faced while making this film?
When David passed away during the course of making the film, I wasn’t sure we would continue. But we were encouraged by David’s family and Jon to finish the project in any way we could. At that point, the biggest challenge for me in making this was in the question of: “How do we tell a story of survival when our subject has passed away?” What we discovered was that we could both honor that sad reality while also paying tribute to what David accomplished in his life. And that while David was no longer with us, his story of surviving addiction was still very much at the core of the story we were trying to tell.
What is something that all filmmakers should keep in mind in order to become better cinematic storytellers?
I don't like to give advice (especially since I still have so much to learn about filmmaking), but I can speak from my own experience. Something I always keep in mind for myself is that filmmaking is all about collaboration. I am the beneficiary of the most incredible team of collaborators, who I am so blessed to know and work alongside of. And while it’s great to be ambitious, I want the whole team to succeed just as much as any personal ambitions I have for myself. As filmmakers, we are at our best when we find ways to support each other. And ultimately, if we succeed in lifting each other up, I think the work ends up being better as a result.
Can you talk about the festival experience? How does it feel to have your film selected?
What I like about festivals is they give us a chance to let go of the competitive nature of the film industry, and just enjoy being a part of the film community. We all have so much in common — we all share this dream of getting to tell stories. So it’s nice to take a break from all the noise and just enjoy each other’s work.
What’s the last film you watched?
"Strange Darling." Loved it.
A New York City-based filmmaker, actor and comedian, Adam Elliot’s short films and web series have screened all over the US and internationally. He served as a writer and appeared in the web series 'The Age of Insecurity' (Winner, LA Comedy Festival 2018) and 'Little Italy, Los Angeles' (Winner, HollyShorts 2018). His short documentary about his father, 'Harv' won the 2017 Greenwich Village Film Festival and 2018 Inwood Film Festival. He won Best Actor at the 2020 New York City Short Comedy Film Festival for his portrayal of The Agent in 'Adam Adamson: Licensed Realtor.' His short film, 'A Best Man' is a grant recipient of the inaugural Inwood Art Works Filmmaker Fund Award (Winner: Best Actor in a Short Film, New York CineFest 2022 and Midwest WeirdFest 2023). Winner of Gotham Comedy Club's 2022 New Talent Competition and Finalist of Stand Up NY's 2023 Comedy Mob Festival.
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!
