Stevi Zabawa's debut film, Nan, is a testament to the power of resilience and the strength of women. This 16-minute short film, shot entirely in Bloomington-Normal, tells the personal story of its main character, Nan, inspired by Zabawa's grandmother, Mary. The film's unique journey began with a bizarre experience on a family vacation, where Zabawa had an epiphany about writing a movie. This sparked a collaboration with filmmaker Lily Ellora Newton, leading to the creation of The Lavender Lakehouse, and eventually, Nan. The film's production was a testament to the power of community and creativity, with Zabawa and Newton writing the screenplay and directing the film on a shoestring budget of $5,000, raised through Go Fund Me. Over half of that went to feeding people, with the rest going to pizza, sandwiches, and the hard work of volunteers.
What makes Nan particularly fascinating is its exploration of the resilience of women in the mid-century setting. The film maintains the broad strokes of Mary's story, including the difficult choice she had to make between remarrying and giving up her children. This raises a deeper question about the societal expectations and pressures faced by women in that era. In my opinion, the film serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and determination of women, and the ability to overcome even the most challenging circumstances.
One thing that immediately stands out is the film's unique production process. Zabawa and Newton's approach to filmmaking, which involved calling in favors, recruiting talented volunteers, and embracing happy accidents, is a testament to the power of creativity and community. This approach allowed them to create a film that is both personal and impactful, despite the lack of financial resources. The film's success, including its acceptance into a dozen short film festivals and multiple awards, is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability to connect with audiences on a personal level.
From my perspective, Nan is a must-watch for anyone interested in independent filmmaking, personal stories, and the resilience of women. It is a powerful reminder of the strength and determination of women, and the ability to overcome even the most challenging circumstances. The film's unique production process and personal story make it a truly special and inspiring piece of art. If you take a step back and think about it, Nan is a testament to the power of community, creativity, and the human spirit, and a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope and the potential for growth and transformation.
