On The Cusp, Longlist - Short Film - Non Fiction

Useless Passion

Bram VanderMark

Plus Ultra Studio

I wanted to use this film as an exercise in connecting a distinct philosophical question to a visual narrative. That sounds simple, and perhaps it is, but it also requires effort and practice, which I find so valuable! My hope is that this film conjures up a sense of resonance and reflection in the audience, and that it moves me a few degrees closer to being a better storyteller in the process.

Growing up as the son of a studio artist, Bram learned the value of art, of colours and composition, emotion and meaning, and the power a beautiful image carries. Living in the countryside of rural Missouri while being raised by a creative Dutch father taught him to feel comfortable and at home with the converging of disparate ideas, cultures, thoughts, and perspectives. Bram cut his teeth in the live performance music space, fell in love with directing, and began to explore other kinds of expressions through film. While he deeply enjoys collaborating with musicians, working with actors is his favourite thing to be doing on a film set. He enjoys bringing a poised and precise visual approach, a high level of attention to the edit and sound design process, and a philosophical undertone to his work.