Filmmaker Profile: Loft and Found by Pete O'Hare and Phillip Kibbe
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!
Five millennials with Peter Pan syndrome run an event venue out of their chaotic Brooklyn warehouse loft.
Q&A WITH THE FILMMAKERS
What inspired you to create this film, and how did the initial idea come to you?
I found my first place in NYC on Craigslist– a warehouse loft/DIY venue deep in Brooklyn with a stage in the living room, and neighbors who throw sex parties, drug ceremonies, and circus shows. After I moved out, I realized I had to make a show about this place!
Why does this story need to be told now?
Loft and Found explores the challenges of motivation and choice faced by so many millennials (including us!). We also celebrate the power of live community in an era of incessant lonely doomscrolling.
Describe who you want this film to reach.
For millennials (and also Gen Z, Gen X) who have grown up...and for those of us who are still working on it. Those who are passionately still pursuing their dreams, and those who need some inspiration. And also a good laugh!
What do you hope audiences will take away from watching your film?
They say the real miracle of Jesus was keeping 12 close friends in his 30s. It's hard out there! I hope the show will remind people of the importance of creativity, community, and a healthy dose of chaos. And it's never too late to pursue your dreams...or at least to pay your rent.
How do you want people to feel after they see your film?
We hope Loft and Found leaves you feeling like you've spent the night drinking with your best friends.
What was the biggest inspiration behind this film?
The cast is a group of phenomenal actors and performers. This film explores their reality--in real life and in the show, they tirelessly pursue their passions, and have to decide if growing up means giving up. And what does it mean to grow up anyway?
BIOGRAPHIES
"Pete O'Hare is an award-winning and two-time Emmy nominated cinematographer and filmmaker. He has filmed projects for Netflix, ESPN+, NBC, New York Knicks, and directed and filmed the documentary short films MUSE, A Day In September, and Baby Boy A. Pete lived at Unit J, the DIY loft from the show, for six years, and survived! Applying his documentary skill and experience to his friends and former living situation has been a process ten years in the making.
Phil Kibbe is a Brooklyn, NY based filmmaker who specializes in docu-style content. His feature length Documentary Float won Best Documentary Award at Charlotte Film Festival and Skyline Film Festival, and he is currently in production on The Bean, a feature length documentary about the boxer Eric ""Butterbean"" Esch. He also co-directed the documentary short films A Day In September, and Baby Boy A alongside Pete O’Hare."
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!
