Logline
In the bustling streets of downtown Philadelphia, James and Erin miss their last train home, plunging them into a high-stakes journey through the city’s maze, where every wrong turn could mean losing their way—and each other.
Synopsis
James visits his crush, Erin, to support her in her school concert. She’s studying to be a music teacher. He arrives at the concert late and is consequently denied access to the show. Devastated, James sits outside the doors until the concert is over.
After the show, James meets Erin in the lobby. When she asks him if he enjoyed the show, he lies, as he doesn’t want to make things worse. They wait outside for a bus to take them to the train station, but nothing seems to be coming. Nonetheless, they keep walking. As they converse, it’s clear that James likes her, but he isn’t sure she feels the same way.
They arrive at the train station only to find that all trains have left the station. With little options, James suggests they take the subway to Erin’s house. Erin initially objects, but James promises to keep her safe. On the subway, James and Erin read the show program together. When Erin mentions one of the pieces she sang, James slips up and reveals he missed the show. Erin gets up and sits by herself until they get off at the last stop. James tries to win her back, but she remains closed off. Finally, as they’re walking back to her house, Erin asks James if he was being genuine with her the whole time. He admits he meant everything he said and they make up with a kiss on her doorstep.
Director's Note
While writing the script, I knew I wanted to film it in the style of the French New Wave. The movement’s rejection of traditional cinematic techniques and conventions perfectly aligned with the hallmarks of my experimental approach to storytelling. Moreover, it was the most cost-effective way to produce the film.
Because I combined techniques from the French New Wave with elements of my personal style, it was only fitting that I borrowed techniques from other filmmakers who were also inspired by the movement. The tracking shots were taken from Richard Linklater’s Before Trilogy, the subtle performances and camera work were inspired by Celine Song’s Past Lives, and the closeups were inspired by the films of Barry Jenkins.
At the end of the day, all these artistic choices are made in the service of telling a great story. At its core, “Broad Street Line” is about owning up to your mistakes and being there for people when they need it most.
Sincerely,
Emmanuel Day Beatty
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