Where the Water Meets the Sand: An Interview with Josiah Erwin

Please tell us about the projects you worked on before making ‘Where the Water Meets the Sand’. How did you start, and how did you learn to make films?

This was actually my first short film! Before this, I would make fun videos on whatever camera I could get my hands on. I enjoyed posting on social media, making videos for school, or just capturing moments of my life and this eventually led to a passion for this artform, drawing me to pursue education in Vancouver Film School.

Tell us about ‘Where the Water Meets the Sand’. How do you describe it?

“Where the Water Meets the Sand” explores how life can change like the waves washing over the shore, bringing new adventures, highs, and lows. The film illustrates this concept through the story of a newly-graduated girl who discovers optimism amidst confusion and hardship. Life can throw us the craziest hurdles, but what truly matters is how we overcome them. My intention with this film is to serve as a hopeful and encouraging piece for people of all ages and backgrounds.

Please tell us about your favorite filmmakers.

My favourite filmmakers include: Nolan of course, Greta Gerwig, Greig Fraser, Autumn Durald Arkapaw, Bong Joon Ho, and Denis Villeneuve. However, I would say I most admire the work of Ryan Coogler. I love how he pulls from personal experiences and passions to create films that are both entertaining pieces, and important conversation starters. His artistic expression is true to himself and he’s someone I aspire to be like one day.

If you were given a good budget, what would be your ideal project?

Given a good budget, my ideal project would be a film that can act as a grand love letter to both my Filipino community and my province of Alberta.

Describe how you would ensure that production is on schedule. What steps would you take?

Be very communicative with your Producers and Assistant Directors before the shoot day and be smart with choosing what to shoot and when to shoot it. Intentionality in pre-production logistics is key and something I definitely valued after shooting this film.

What was the hardest part of making ‘Where the Water Meets the Sand’.

We faced plenty of challenges along the way. From all of our props and set decoration falling out of a truck, to having to rush through some scenes, to chasing a disappearing sunset, and more. The scale of this film was a new experience for both myself and many of our crew members, and with that came a fair share of obstacles. But through it all, we pushed forward and delivered a final product we’re all incredibly proud of!

If possible, tell us about your next work. What plans do you have for your future work?

Currently, I have a short film or two I’m looking to shoot this year. Would like to keep it on the low for now but there are very exciting things in store for the future and I have a lot of ideas that I am eager to explore. I am also honing in on cinematography and pursuing a path as a DP.