Director’s Statement for Caleb Stewart

Finding Humanity in Every Story

From my earliest days in the arts, I’ve been driven by an insatiable curiosity about the human experience. At 13, I embarked on a journey that began with acting and quickly expanded into writing and producing. My first project, “Tequila Mockingbird,” was not just a web series; it was a canvas where I could explore and express the intricate layers of human emotions and relationships through a comedic lens.

Caleb Mills Stewart and Lenny Hernandez ifn a scene from “Tequila Mockingbird” (2014)

A Multifaceted Approach to Storytelling

My career in film has been marked by a desire to wear many hats—writer, producer, actor. This multifaceted approach allows me to see stories from multiple perspectives, ensuring a richer, more nuanced narrative. I believe that great storytelling requires an understanding of every aspect of film production, and my diverse roles have equipped me with the skills to craft stories that are both compelling and authentic.

Inspiration from Real-Life Stories

The documentaries that have influenced me deeply—“The Stories We Tell,” “Dark Days,” “Grey Gardens,” and others—have a common thread: they capture raw, unfiltered humanity. These films have taught me the power of vulnerability and the beauty of imperfection. I strive to bring the same level of emotional depth and authenticity to my work, creating films that resonate on a profound level with audiences.

Commitment to Social Impact

I am particularly drawn to stories that address social issues and advocate for change. Whether it’s exploring the effects of gun violence in “Bowling for Columbine” or the heartbreaking tale of Matthew Shepard in “Matt Shepard is a Friend of Mine,” I am committed to using my platform to shed light on important societal issues. My goal is to inspire dialogue and action, using film as a catalyst for social justice and human connection.

Celebrating Creativity and Individuality

In every project, I aim to celebrate the uniqueness of the human spirit. Influenced by the bold creativity of Isaac Mizrahi in “Unzipped,” I seek to infuse my films with a distinct voice and style. I believe in the power of originality and the importance of embracing one’s true self, and I strive to bring that philosophy to life in my work.

Redefining Legacy Through Film

As a 43-year-old gay filmmaker, my journey in creating this documentary has become a deeply personal exploration of legacy and family. In a world where traditional notions of family and success often prevail, I've found myself reimagining what it means to leave a lasting impact. This film has become more than just a project—it's my way of contributing to my family's legacy, a creative offspring born from passion and dedication. Through the process of documenting my mother's remarkable career, I've discovered that legacy isn't solely defined by biological lineage, but by the stories we choose to tell and the lives we touch. This realization has infused my work with a new level of purpose and emotional depth, allowing me to connect with audiences on a profoundly human level. My hope is that this film not only honors my mother's journey but also inspires others to find their unique ways of leaving their mark on the worl

Connecting Through Compassion

Films like “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” and “All That Breathes” remind me of the impact of compassion and empathy. I am moved by stories that highlight kindness and selflessness, and I endeavor to create films that foster understanding and connection among people. My work is a reflection of my belief that through empathy and compassion, we can bridge divides and create a more harmonious world.

Robyn attends Caleb’s graduation from film school. (2022)

A Lifelong Journey

My journey in film is far from over. Each project is a step towards deeper understanding and greater artistic expression. I am committed to continuing this path, exploring new stories, and pushing the boundaries of my creativity. I invite you to join me on this journey, to explore the depths of humanity through the lens of cinema, and to be inspired by the stories we uncover together.

How My Values Shape My Work

Authenticity and Vulnerability

Authenticity is the cornerstone of my work. My passion for capturing genuine human emotions stems from the belief that our true selves are the most compelling. By embracing vulnerability, I aim to create films that touch hearts and provoke thought. My early project, "Tequila Mockingbird," was a playful yet sincere exploration of relationships, setting the tone for my career.

Empathy and Compassion

Empathy drives my storytelling. I believe that by highlighting the shared human experience, films can foster a deeper understanding among people. Stories like “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” and “All That Breathes” inspire me to create narratives that emphasize kindness and connection, bridging gaps between diverse audiences.

Caleb Stewart directing a scene

Social Impact

Using film as a tool for social change is a core principle of mine. Documentaries such as “Bowling for Columbine” and “Matt Shepard is a Friend of Mine” have shown me the power of storytelling in raising awareness and prompting action. My commitment to social issues ensures that my films are not just entertainment but also a force for good.

Creativity and Individuality

Celebrating creativity and individuality is essential in my projects. Influences like Isaac Mizrahi's boldness in “Unzipped” encourage me to embrace originality and infuse my work with a unique voice. This approach not only distinguishes my films but also empowers others to embrace their true selves.

Redefining Legacy

My journey as a filmmaker is also a personal quest to redefine legacy. Documenting my mother’s career has taught me that legacy is about the impact we leave through our stories and actions, not just our biological lineage. This realization has added a profound depth to my work, making each project a tribute to those who inspire me.

Conclusion

My values—authenticity, empathy, social impact, creativity, and individuality—are the foundation of my filmmaking journey. They shape every story I tell and guide every project I undertake. As I continue to explore the depths of humanity through cinema, I invite you to join me. Together, we can uncover the beauty of the human experience, one story at a time.

And remember, as one of my favorite childhood characters might say, “Let’s go exploring!”

FAQs

What inspired you to become a filmmaker? My curiosity about the human experience and the desire to explore and express complex emotions and relationships through storytelling.

How do you choose the subjects for your films? I am drawn to real-life stories that capture raw, unfiltered humanity and address important social issues, aiming to inspire dialogue and action.

What role does empathy play in your work? Empathy is central to my storytelling, fostering a deeper understanding among people and bridging gaps between diverse audiences.

How do you balance creativity and social impact in your films? By celebrating individuality and originality while using storytelling as a tool for raising awareness and prompting social change.

What does legacy mean to you as a filmmaker? Legacy is about the impact we leave through our stories and actions, not just biological lineage, and each project is a tribute to those who inspire me.