Several years ago, GraVoc’s Director of Media Production Brian Gravel teamed up with Dan Gorham of Gorham Productions to direct and co-produce “Standing Up,” a short film about a man who dreams of chasing a career in stand-up comedy. After taking a brief hiatus to pursue other professional and creative endeavors, Gorham and Gravel once again turned their focus to the film, which was awarded third prize in the 2009 Las Vegas Short Script Awards (now Vegas CineFest). The film was recently accepted into the 11th Annual Boston International Film Festival, and is in competition for the festival’s Narrative Short award. The film is scheduled to be screened on Monday, April 15 at the Loews Theatre in Boston.
“Standing Up” tells the story of Paul Miller, “a young man plagued with stage fright” but who wants desperately to attempt stand-up comedy. He ultimately “decides it’s time to conquer doubt and stop his greatest fear from stifling his life-long dream.” According to the film’s synopsis, “His decision and ultimate debut send him on a journey toward an enlightening realization he had never before comprehended.” The film starts Randy Marquis (Ghosts, The Death of Abraham Lincoln), Zele Avradopoulos (Paul Blart: Mall Cop) and Ted Arcidi (The Town, The Fighter, Nurse Jackie, 30 Rock), and features a score by Donald R. Patten. GraVoc Associates assisted with the production of “Standing Up” through a donation; those familiar with our old office might recognize the set in the film!
You can find out more about the film and watch a trailer at the Gorham Productions website. For more information about the film festival, or to purchase tickets to the screening, please visit the Boston International Film Festival website. Congratulations to Brian, Dan, and the cast and crew of “Standing Up” for receiving a nomination for the narrative short award!