Timpview Junior Arri Graham is releasing an original short film. “The Boxer,” a 10-minute picture, tells the story of a boy recalling his dream about being a professional boxer.

Graham’s father, who also makes movies, introduced him to the world of filmmaking. He grew up acting in his father’s movies including one titled, “The Killing of Two Lovers.” In the eighth grade he began to write his own scripts and movie concepts; this year he released his first film, “Nosebleed.”

“Nosebleed” is a short film that follows a boy who runs into trouble after picking his nose. Released just earlier this year, Graham has used his experience creating “Nosebleed” to enhance “The Boxer.” He notes that “I knew how to communicate what I wanted better,” and that he gained more experience with camera work and editing software. Unlike “The Boxer,” “Nosebleed” has no dialogue but features music written by Graham’s grandfather. 

Not only did Graham’s grandfather help by writing and editing the music and sounds of the movie, but Graham was also able to recruit the assistance of Tanner Padbury. Padbury is a friend of Graham’s who has prior knowledge of filmmaking. He joined Graham as a producer and has assisted him on set and in writing the script. The two worked together to turn his idea into a real movie. 

Graham says that when he writes a script he “thinks about [his] friends and how they act and talk”, and then creates characters based on them. He is very impressed with their performances, especially because none of them are trained actors. Enigk Bushman, who plays the main character, does an amazing job bringing his character to life and often works with Graham to make the movie the best it can be. The other roles are performed by Eli Suman and James Hassler. The four friends work well together and Suman states “Once I get on set it’s always a good time.” Filming took three days and included settings such as a restaurant and in the backseat of a car. The process consists of lighting each set, running through the script and filming the scenes. Once filming is done Graham begins to work on the editing which takes 1-2 months.

Graham’s sophomore film was inspired by “Rocky” and “Stand By Me” but with an ominous feel. Graham hopes to create more projects and is just getting started. As writer, director, and editor, Graham is excited to announce that “The Boxer” will be released on January 12, 2024, and available to watch on YouTube.