Filmmaker Profile: Or Something by Jeffrey Scotti Schroeder
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!
About This Film
Two strangers show up at the same Brooklyn apartment to collect cash they’re both owed. Forced to spend the day together on a journey through New York City, the pair reveal intimate details about their lives. One of them happens to be hiding a harrowing secret.
Q&A WITH DIRECTOR JEFFERY SCOTTI SCHROEDER
Jeffery Scotti Schroeder, director of Or Something
What inspired you to create this film, and how did the initial idea come to you?
Kareem Rahma and Mary Neely partnered together with the intention of making a low-budget independent film. Meeting up once a month for almost a year, the pair purposefully chose a storytelling structure that would allow for a lot of talking. They would pick a topic and talk about said topic before transcribing it into dialogue for the script. Their intention was to tell an honest story without holding back.
Why does this story need to be told now?
A lot of people think the opioid crisis is a thing of the past, but it's not. Many people still struggle with addiction in this same way and a lot of those who are affected are not the "bum" or "derelict" stereotype many imagine. Addicts take any shape and size, just like Olivia.
What was your favorite part of making your film? Memories from the process?
Our shoot was six days of mostly exteriors in the freezing cold. The crew really came together and brought levity to the process, making it a very memorable shoot.
Were there any films or directors that influenced your approach to this project?
The "Before" Trilogy (anything Linklater), "My Dinner with Andre," "When Harry Met Sally," "What Happened Was..." (Tom Noonan), The Duplass Brothers, Joe Swanberg
How do you feel about your film being screened in front of a festival audience?
We're so grateful to have our film on a big screen in a room full of people, especially fellow movie lovers.
Early bird or night owl?
Night Owl!!
BIOGRAPHY
Jeffrey Scotti Schroeder is a New York-based Producer, Writer, and Director. Jeffrey has directed projects for A$AP Rocky, Kit Kat, Clario, Kanye West, Jordan Brand, Travis Scott, DJ Khaled, and Tony Hawk to name a few, and was nominated for AICP's Best Regional Director. His TV directing credit includes SAME TIME NEXT WEEK. His feature directorial debut is OR SOMETHING. He is a proud member of the invite-only Mushroom Identification Forum on Facebook.
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!
