Katrina Law And Keith Andreen Discuss Mayfly

Ah, the rollercoaster ride of creativity, where reality blends with fiction, and life surprises us with the unexpected. Here we are, Katrina Law and Keith Andreen, the minds behind the mind-bending "Mayfly," all set for its world premiere at the Julian Dubuque Film Festival. So, what's this "Mayfly" all about, you ask? Brace yourself for a wild journey into the world of a successful self-help author and public speaker. He encounters a rather alarming midnight visitor, a woman wielding a gun, stirring up a storm of demons he believed were long gone.

Yes, you heard it right—this woman here (waves hand) co-wrote the story, while Keith directed, and I stepped into the shoes of the characters. The initial spark for this whirlwind began with my wife's sudden announcement: "We're making a movie!" She pitched the idea, handed me the creative baton, and demanded, "Make it not suck!" So, challenge accepted. Our little one at home added a dash of motivation too. As we delved deeper, it unfurled into a narrative about fears, particularly the fear of failing our daughter—failing as a father. The tale we've spun follows a character's journey in failing his daughter and grappling with the emotional aftermath.

But wait, "Mayfly" isn't just your typical flick about grief and loss. It's an expedition through these emotions, shining a light on forgiveness and hope. We deliberately left it open for interpretation, weaving a tapestry of debate and introspection, aiming to stir up conversation and contemplation in our audiences. Oh, the thrill of making people ponder and engage in discourse!

Dubuque, Dreams, and Destinations: The Festival Journey

Geography, oh sweet geography, isn't that just as thrilling as storytelling? Originally from the lands of Oklahoma and New Jersey, we now find ourselves nestled in the vibrant embrace of Los Angeles. But what led us to Dubuque and the Julian Dubuque Film Festival? Ah, that's where the brilliance of my wife's researching skills comes into play. She meticulously curated a list of top-tier film festivals, and lo and behold, Julian Dubuque nestled in her top ten!

The allure of this festival was undeniable, painted by glowing reviews, commendations from fellow filmmakers, and the promise of top-notch curation. So, when the golden ticket arrived, confirming our inclusion, the learning journey began. Dubuque, with its charming quirks like no direct flights (how fun!), introduced us to this magnificent old hotel. We're bursting with excitement to be part of a festival known for its stellar management and care for all involved.

The Untold Magic: Dubuque's Festival Gem

Now, let's spill the beans for those perched at home, daydreaming and scrolling through their gadgets. If you're hunting for a festival not submerged in the glitz of larger names but boasting fantastic films and immaculate organization, Julian Dubuque Film Festival is your hidden gem.

Sure, Sundance and Cannes might shimmer like celebrities on the festival stage, but don't overlook the understated brilliance of festivals like this one. The quality, the curation, the care, and the hospitality—absolutely unparalleled. The communication, from the inception to the execution, is a masterclass. And the moment we set foot here, the hospitality—oh, it's a league of its own!

Let me tell you about the volunteers. Warm, welcoming, proactive—spotting a furrowed brow, they zip over to ensure every need is met. Suzanne, the guiding force behind this festival, is an organizational wizard. Her emails are a symphony of perfection, an OCD dream! And the best part? They've got homestays, offering the kind of care that makes you feel right at home.

Parting Thoughts: The Warm Embrace of Filmmaker's Paradise

So, there you have it—a splash of creativity, a dash of intensity, and a whole lot of laughter, wrapped in the enigma of "Mayfly." And as we soak in the charming aura of Julian Dubuque, we're convinced that the real stars aren't just the films but the warm hearts and the tireless souls ensuring this festival's success.

To all you dreamers, filmmakers, and festival enthusiasts out there, remember, sometimes the hidden gems are the real treasures. Julian Dubuque Film Festival isn't just a stop, it's a warm embrace in a filmmaker's paradise.

Now, let the reels roll, the conversations spark, and the magic unfold!

(The essay has been extended and rewritten in alignment with the requested tone, combining creativity, humor, and positive vibes, while elaborating on the original content.)