Exploring Love and Loss in “Near”

We recently interviewed director Jacob Gusentine about his journey making his short film, “Near.” The film unravels the complexities of relationships, diving into unspoken feelings and the quiet moments that define love’s evolution.

Gusentine draws inspiration from personal experiences and emotions of those close to him, crafting a narrative that explores the dissolution of relationships without grand spectacle. He explains, “I’m always looking for where a story can be told in the periphery, the quieter parts of life.” The film is not just about loss but also serves as an exercise in hope, suggesting that love takes on new shapes even when relationships transform.

“I think there’s a tendency to dramatize these kinds of situations when in reality they tend to be pretty casual, if not gentle. Sometimes two people who really love one another suddenly wake up one morning and the math just doesn’t add up anymore.”

Creating a film like ‘Near’ is emotionally taxing.  Gusentine shares a poignant moment during the filming of a heated argument scene. Originally a 5-minute long take, the intensity of the moment led the director to tears. “It was an emotionally taxing film at times, but we were there for one another,” he says, emphasizing the emotional connection and trust within the crew.

“After a few takes of it I just started crying in front of the entire crew, I went inside the house and hugged the actors. We held each other and cried for a while. It was a moment that really highlighted the kind of safety and trust we felt towards one another.”

“It was stressful and frustrating at times” Gusentine admits while the final cut differed significantly from the original script. “Sometimes the film is trying to tell you what it wants to be, you just have to listen,” he advises, highlighting the importance of allowing the story to evolve organically.

Gusentine encourages authenticity and pursuing what excites new filmmakers. “If your work is authentic and truthful, it will always find an audience,” he asserts, emphasizing the fleeting nature of opportunities in the industry.

“There’s so much being made in the world, and I think audiences are starving for originality, they want to feel things they’ve never felt before.”

Looking ahead, Gusentine shares exciting news about his upcoming projects. “I’m shooting my next short in March and in development for my first feature film!” For those eager to follow his journey, he invites them to connect on his Instagram @jacobgus_ and track updates on “Near” at @nearshortfilm .

“Near” is an Official Selection of the Utah International Film Festival and will screen at Maven Cinemas in American Fork, UT. The festival runs February 12-17 in Utah County.