Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Independent filmmaking thrives on risk-taking. David Telles emphasizes the importance of breaking the rules and blazing new paths in storytelling.
- Embrace your weirdness. This project gave Telles the freedom to lean into his unique style, encouraging him to embrace being different in his work.
- Empathy as a takeaway. Telles hopes his audience walks away with a greater sense of empathy after watching Freyr.
David Telles, a Xicano filmmaker from Oakland, California, brings his bold vision to life with Freyr a film that promises to challenge and inspire audiences at this year's HollyShorts Film Festival.
Rooted in storytelling as a form of medicine, Telles collaborates with a talented cast, including Icelandic musician and actor Luthersson, Benairen Kane, and Krista Hedins. With the support of a skilled crew, including cinematographer Robert L. Hunter and acclaimed author Tommy Orange, Telles presents a unique narrative that encourages viewers to see the world through a different lens.
What drew you to make Freyr? Why this story, and why now?
I fell in love with Tommy Orange's book "There There" in 2018. Co-writing the pilot for a TV adaptation allowed me to connect with Tommy, who, like me, grew up in Oakland. This story resonated with me—it's something unique, original, and wonderfully weird. In today's world, we need stories that break the mold and challenge the status quo.
What surprised you most during the filmmaking process?
This was an ambitious project with many moving parts, but everything came together in the end.
We faced a creative challenge when the weather changed unexpectedly during a key scene. It was supposed to be sunny for the BBQ, but it turned foggy. This happy accident ended up enhancing the film's opening.
Is there a moment in Freyr that feels most like you?
Tommy and I joked that no one else would ever make this film, but if there's a moment that feels most like me, it's the handshake at the end. I felt the magic while shooting it—truly a special moment on set.
"This project gave me permission to be my weirdest self and to embrace that weirdness."
BTS shots from Freyr
What was the hardest creative decision you made during production?
We had to cut some beats I loved due to time constraints. There are great moments in the script that I hope to revisit if we ever expand it into a feature.
What do you hope audiences take away from Freyr?
Hopefully, empathy. That would be great.
How has this film shaped the stories you want to tell next?
Freyr allowed me to embrace my weirdest self. I'm now giving myself full permission to be weird and own it in my work.
What does it mean to have Freyr selected for HollyShorts?
This is my second film at HollyShorts, and it's exciting to be part of such a great festival. Screening alongside amazing shorts is a big honor.
BTS shots from Freyr
Where do you see Freyr going next?
I'm hoping to hit as many festivals as possible. If there's interest in expanding it into a feature, I'd be delighted to explore that. We have more than enough story to develop the script.
"At the core of all my work is a desire to share the medicine."
Follow their work and updates on social media and personal websites as they continue to influence and inspire through film.
