Director’s Statement

‘Where the Paper Boats Go’ is a cinematic voyage, a visual poem that navigates the turbulent waters of human emotion, identity, and the intricate journey of healing. This film is a narrative with the universal themes of loss, mental health, and resilience through a uniquely queer lens.

The film meticulously weaves themes of remembrance, the afterlife, and the fragility of our existence, akin to paper boats adrift in the vast sea of life. It’s an allegory that resonates deeply, touching on the shared vulnerabilities that unite us, while also celebrating the individuality that defines us. The narrative is not just a story, but a journey through the ebbs and flows of the human psyche, exploring the potential for connection and understanding in our darkest hours.

As a director and member of the LGBTQ+ community, my vision was to create a space for reflection, to stir the depths of the audience’s hearts, and to invite them to embark on this journey with Jake. From the isolating nature of grief to the tentative steps towards healing, the film mirrors the tenacity and perseverance of the human spirit. It’s a testament to the power of memory, the enduring nature of love, and the indelible ink of our experiences that stain the paper boats of our existence.

Through ‘Where the Paper Boats Go,’ I aim to craft a narrative that not only delves into the depths of mental health struggles but also illuminates the path to healing as one that is steeped in understanding, acceptance, and the transformative power of cherished memories. This film is a celebration of queer resilience, a poignant reminder that even the most fragile paper boats can carry the weight of our most profound stories and emotions. It’s more than a film; it’s an invitation to navigate the profound seas of identity, mental health, and healing, and a tribute to the strength found in vulnerability and the beauty that emerges when we allow ourselves to remember, feel, and ultimately, heal.”