PATRICK MARSH
DIRECTOR
Patrick Marsh is a writer and director passionate about emotionally resonant storytelling. Originally from the Midwest, he began making short films with his sister in middle school and quickly grew into a dedicated visual storyteller. He has since directed a wide range of projects—from over 100 commercial and industrial videos to the acclaimed feature-length documentary Testament (Заповіт), filmed on the frontlines in Ukraine. Patrick believes in film’s power to give voice to the vulnerable, a perspective he brings to his latest work as writer and director of this film.
CHLOE GARD
PRODUCER
Chloe Gard is a detail-driven, people-focused film producer passionate about nonfiction storytelling that fosters empathy and reflects life’s deeper truths. She has produced a variety of short films and documentaries, including the award-winning Orang. Utan., featured at the Wildlife Conservation and Vaasa Wildlife Film Festivals, and Surf Church, which screened at Moinho Cine Fest. Her portrait series YOU was exhibited in the Boren Art Gallery at Taylor University. With international experience in Mexico, Portugal, and Peru, Chloe brings heart, precision, and a global perspective to every production she joins.
DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY
JP SUSANTIO
JP Susantio is a director of photography with a sharp eye for detail and a passion for visual storytelling. He brings a documentary-driven approach to every project, capturing authentic, emotionally grounded images. His work has been recognized by the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) and the Broadcast Education Association (BEA). JP’s work spans a variety of subjects and styles, from directing Beyond Silence, a film about the hard-of-hearing community, to serving as cinematographer on Surf Church, which highlights athletes and community leaders in Portugal. As director of photography on this film, he blends technical precision with narrative instinct to visually elevate the story’s emotional core.
THANE SYSWERDA
ASSOCIATE PRODUCEr, sound
Thane Syswerda is the associate producer and location sound recordist for this film, with a passion for capturing the unseen and often unheard moments of life. A versatile filmmaker and storyteller, he began animating photo stories as a kid—learning early on the value of patience, precision, and creative curiosity. He produced the award-winning documentary Beyond Silence and co-created the sound design and original score for Surf Church alongside Todd Syswerda. With experience across narrative and documentary work, Thane specializes in immersive audio, sound design, and behind-the-scenes coordination. His thoughtful approach and technical skill make him an essential contributor to every story he helps tell.
NATHAN MONTALVO
Visual EFFECTS ARTIST
Nathan Montalvo is the visual effects artist for this film, known for his sharp eye for detail and for creating realistic, atmospheric visuals. He is a passionate post-production artist who specializes in blending seamless editing with immersive visual effects to elevate story and tone. He served as editor and VFX artist for the award-winning short film Second Hand, which has been screened at multiple film festivals. Nathan brings strong creative problem-solving and technical mastery in visual effects, using tools like Blender, Houdini, and Unreal Engine to build immersive, cinematic atmospheres in every project he takes on.