Filmmaker Profile: You're Invited to Tuscan's 5th Bday Party! By Lee Eddy
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
When her only son's birthday party is ruined by a runaway pony, a stressed mother deals with the comically chaotic aftermath.
Q&A WITH DIRECTOR LEE EDDY
Lee Eddy, director of You’re Invited to Tuscan’s 5th Bday Party!
What inspired you to create this film, and how did the initial idea come to you?
I am a mid-40s mother of two kids, ages 10 and 6. (Yay!) After my second child was born, I was diagnosed with postpartum anxiety (Boo.) So, I began therapy. (Yay…?) When I learned the term disenfranchisement grief in a session -- it’s “when you feel a loss that is not supported by society as something to publicly grieve” -- I was inspired to tell the story of my own Mom Life Crisis. I sat down and wrote it in a day and a half. It first existed as a 30-minute one-woman show that I performed at a couple of local theater festivals. The response I received from audience members (not just parents) was overwhelming and after ended up in tearful exchanges.... so I knew it was something that resonated with others.
How do you want people to feel after they see your film?
It is meant to be a comedy piece, but writing comedy is a way for me to process Big Life Stuff. My hope is that with the (fingers crossed) laughter, the audience feels like can open up themselves a bit to receive the story. And once they're open to trusting where the story is going, then *the heart* of what's the main character confesses is more easily absorbed because we've been on a roller coaster with her and this is the final drop. But instead of leaving them with a gut punch, there's more comedy at the end so you feel like you got a delicious treat with a hard nut in the middle. (So many metaphors.)
What was a big challenge you faced while making this film?
I'm a first time filmmaker and broke lots of rules that you probably shouldn't do with your first film: work with animals, work with children, write/direct/producer/star in the piece, etc. I cried a bunch during the pre-production because it was a really big risk (emotionally/financially) to put my story into the world and Who The Fuck Did I Think I Was to make it? I got over that as soon as we were in production week and adored the entire process thereafter. (TL/DR: Self Doubt).
What inspired you to pursue a career in filmmaking?
I've been in front of the camera acting in other people's original works for over two decades. Finally, at my mid-40s, I realized, "Oh. Wait. I can make my own short film."
What is something that all filmmakers should keep in mind in order to become better cinematic storytellers?
Being vulnerable and authentic feels like something I'll always strive for in my future films and scripts.
What’s the last book you read?
Surely You Can't Be Serious: The True Story of AIRPLANE -- an autobiographical telling of how the Zucker brothers and Jim Abrahams "got away" with making AIRPLANE.
Early bird or night owl?
Afternoon Anteater
BIOGRAPHY
Lee Eddy is an Austin, Texas-based writer, actor, and first-time filmmaker. Her recent acting credits include a lead role in Richard Linklater’s ‘Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Childhood,’ and supporting roles in Mo Amer’s A24/Netflix comedy series ‘Mo,’ Amazon Prime’s series ‘Panic,’ Martin Scorsese’s ‘Killers of the Flower Moon.’ Upcoming credits include featured roles in Macon Blair’s ‘The Toxic Avenger,’ and starring in her directorial debut with the original short film 'You're Invited to Tuscan's 5th Birthday Party!'
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!
