Logline: Forks and spoons who work in an office have a rivalry, but when a spork comes into the office, each group must decide where they stand.

Ode to Cutlery was my first short film, and the project that helped me earn admission into Chapman University’s prestigious Dodge College of Film and Media Arts. It began as an application assignment with a deceptively simple prompt: Create a short film with no dialogue where a character faces a difficult decision.

At the time, I just wanted to make something funny, heartfelt, and slightly absurd — a story that used humor to say something deeper about unity and acceptance. The idea of a Spork caught between two worlds felt both ridiculous and strangely human. I also just wanted to dress all of my friends and family up in silly costumes.

The film was made as part of the No Comment Film Fellowship through re:imagine/ATL, a nonprofit that empowers young storytellers in Atlanta. With support from the fellowship, we shot on a Sony A7S II and relied heavily on creativity, collaboration, and good old-fashioned resourcefulness.

I directed, wrote, and produced the project with the help of my high school friends and family — all of whom volunteered their time and energy to bring this strange little world of cutlery to life. Every detail, from the handmade set decoration to the mock “office politics,” was crafted with care and humor.

Writer & Director: Developed the concept, visual style, and tone of the piece.

Producer: Oversaw logistics, scheduling, and post-production delivery.

Editor: Cut the film in Final Cut Pro, focusing on pacing, visual rhythm, and comedic timing (essential in a dialogue-free piece).

Sound Designer: Music and sound effects were necessary in the film, especially since we had no dialogue and didn't record on any extra sound device. I did sound all in the editing software.

Camera: Sony A7S II

Editing + Sound Design: Final Cut Pro X

Crew: 10-person team (students + volunteers)

Finalist — First Time Filmmaker Sessions, 2019 Winner — Holden Village Film Festival, 2020 Official Selection — Davis Feminist Film Festival Winner, Best Fiction Film — WCTE PBS Student Film Festival

What started as a simple film school application became a short I’m still proud of years later. Ode to Cutlery taught me how to lead a crew, think visually, and tell stories that balance humor with heart.

It also marked the beginning of my journey as a filmmaker — a project that proved even small, silly stories can make a lasting impact when told with sincerity.