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Reel Unique Production | Film Festival Journey | Summer 2020
Apocalypse
The world was turned upside down as Covid-19 wreaked havoc, ushering in a chilling Zombie Apocalypse! In this chaotic landscape, hope seemed dim for filmmakers unless they were crafting the next zombie flick or a sequel to "I Am Legend." Was humanity on the brink of extinction? The streets transformed into barren wastelands, and despair hung heavy in the air... or so it seemed!
But wait—what was a newcomer to the Film Festival Circuit to do? Amidst the chaos of the pandemic and the sweltering summer heat, finding an in-person film festival to showcase a bold short film like "Bad Bitch" seemed nearly impossible. That’s why the news of acceptance that first-time festival-goer, Director and Producer Dan Haynes received was like a ray of sunshine piercing through the gloom: Reel Unique Production's latest masterpiece, "Bad Bitch," had been officially selected for the Houston Comedy Film Festival!
What thrilling news! But with excitement came uncertainty: "Would the festival occur in person? Or would it pivot online?" Dan's mind raced with questions, especially after facing disappointments from other festivals that had resorted to lackluster virtual formats. Thankfully, the Houston Comedy Film Festival rose to the challenge with unparalleled grace and professionalism, ensuring that their official selections would be showcased—somehow, someway, and in the safest manner possible. The stage was set for magic to happen, and hope was reborn!
Road Trip
The Festival boldly declared, “The show must go on!” Such fierce dedication was truly a rarity during the peak of the pandemic, when venues were scarce and restrictions loomed large. However, the Film Festival refused to be sidelined. They found a fantastic compromise: the vibrant Doc's Drive-In Theatre in Buda, Texas—a beloved local gem! Yes! It was official! This was the moment Reel Unique Productions had been eagerly anticipating—a chance to premiere and showcase the incredible hard work and dedication that the cast and crew of Bad Bitch poured into their project. This was set to be a road trip for the ages! Excitement was in the air, and the atmosphere buzzed with the promise of unforgettable moments!
The Drive-In
The era of the Drive-In was once dismissed as a relic of the past, destined to fade away into obscurity. But against all odds, the Drive-In experience was resurrected and revitalized during the trials of a challenging pandemic! For many, this global crisis was unprecedented, but for visionary creator Dan Haynes, it marked a series of thrilling firsts. It was his inaugural road trip from bustling Houston, Texas, to charming Buda, Texas, his first glimpse of a Drive-In Movie Theatre, and his very first taste of the magic of a Film Festival!
Despite the unconventional circumstances surrounding the festival, Dan was overjoyed to see his work showcased at such an extraordinary venue. Doc's Drive-In reignited a sense of nostalgia and wonder that was simply unforgettable. The enormous screens beckoned, the mouthwatering food offerings enticed all, and the event became a vibrant celebration of cinema's golden days. It felt like stepping into a bygone era, where the enchantment of film came alive once more. Truly, it was an experience that dazzled the senses and warmed the spirit—a pure slice of nostolgia.
Lights up
As the projector roared to life and the festival logo dazzled brilliantly across the screen, an overwhelming wave of joy washed over the cast and crew in attendance. The retro charm of Bad Bitch perfectly complemented the Drive-In’s vibrant atmosphere, sparking waves of nostalgia for iconic shows like the 1975 classic The Rocky Horror Picture Show and many others. That night, an abundance of talent shone brightly, crafting unforgettable memories for everyone present. Tears glimmered on the cheeks of lead actress Katherine Salamanca, while a profound sense of accomplishment enveloped the entire cast beneath the sprawling Texas night sky. While many remember 2020 as a year marked by a daunting pandemic, for Dan Haynes, it was the year his dreams took center stage, illuminated on that colossal Drive-In screen.
Conclusion
It was truly an honor for the Bad Bitch cast and crew to even be screened at the Houston Comedy Film Festival and for the team of Bad Bitch to even be nominated as a finalist was even greater. The experience was everlasting and the memories made were amazing. Reel Unique Productions and Dan Haynes hope to capture this incredible experience again. The Houston Comedy Film Festival is highly recommended to ALL up-and-coming filmmakers. Be sure to watch Bad Bitch, and experience what Reel Unique did at this amazing venue.
Bad Bitch Film | Bad Bitch Trailer | Bad Bitch Store | Ashley Moore Interview | Kevin Ventura Interview | Dieu Nhien Interview | Bloopers | Deleted Scenes
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