About the Film
Synopsis & Logline
Logline
On the brink of bankruptcy, an advertising agency must rediscover what it takes to be inspired.
Synopsis
Karl is down and out as project lead at an advertising agency. His awful performance leaves the company on the brink of collapse. Karl’s company is losing clients because of his inspiration drought. The boss’s daughter shows up to turn things around, giving Karl a new source of inspiration. If only he can handle the wild ride!
Director & Cast
Bob Bouland | Writer, Producer, Director
Barely Inspired is Bob's first screenplay and short film. He started out by writing sketch comedy and 10-minute plays. Bob has also performed stand-up, improv, and sketch comedy. He has since written produced and directed several short comedy films to include Appoholic.
John Wilbur | Writer, Producer, Director
John's video experience extends years back to his former life, producing ski and snowboard videos for his tour company in Argentina. Barely Inspired is his first narrative short. John performs improv with the group Glorious Reboot in Sarasota and Tampa, and he also writes feature length screenplays.
Karl: Justin Wiggins
Rachel Barnes: Maggie Mandell
Frank Barnes: Tony Stanol
Matilyn (Matt): Colleen Maguire
Lisa (Nova): Autumn Steiner
Liz Peterson: Christal Talcott
Michael Connors: Jacob Goodwin
Creative Consultant: Jen Baum
Video and Audio Production: Jim Talcott
Running time: 20:31
Directors' Statement
We met in a sketch comedy writing class at Florida Studio Theatre. It was there that the inspiration for the origin of the idea for Barely Inspired began.
Losing a few rounds against life, realizing that you are not perfect, and being afraid that you don’t have what it takes to succeed are struggles we all share.
That is why we set our hero on the relatable path to confront his vulnerability.
As directors we wanted to explore how in making yourself truly vulnerable you can overcome fear and tap into your power to create.
As our actors brought the story to life, we discovered during production that some of the relationships developed a life of their own. We quickly determined the need for the final conference room scene to end in an epic brawl, rather than just a failed sales pitch.
We hope the audience enjoys the humor and representation of interpersonal office relationships; and that they leave with a greater appreciation of vulnerability and sources of inspiration.
Finally, we are truly grateful for the cast, crew and their families for all of their efforts and support. This project was only possible because of a 100% effort by everyone.