About the story.

Log Line

A high-school boy faces his insecurities about his deafness at his school's winter dance.

Synopsis

My film is about Noah, a 17-year-old high school student who confronts his deaf insecurities after wanting to ask a girl to the winter dance. He decides that he will try his hearing aids and speech therapy again. After struggling, he gives up and decides not to go to the winter dance. However, his mom won’t let that happen and encourages him to go. He builds courage in the car and manages to gain the confidence to talk to the girl. Upon approaching her he discovers that she has learned sign language so that she could talk to him.

About Director

My name is Matthew Bacher

My name is Matt Bacher and I grew up in Conifer, Colorado a small town in the mountains, thirty minutes west of Denver. I love the mountains and enjoy skiing, mountain biking, hiking, and camping. I chose University of New Mexico because of the film program, the beautiful campus, and the Sandia Mountains that feel like home. Another big draw is that Netflix Studios is next to the UNM Mesa Del Sol Campus and the film community in New Mexico is expansive and welcoming.

I am completing my senior year in Film and Digital Media Arts (FDMA). I would like to go into camera, but am learning about all aspects of film making and gaining new skills every day. My goal is to create stories with a powerful and emotional message. I am also interested in creating historical and documentary films.

My passion for filmmaking began at the age of 12 when I watched the series Band of Brothers and was deeply moved to tears by the ending. That moment made me realize that films do more than just tell stories—they have the power to profoundly affect emotions. I knew then that I wanted to create movies that leave a lasting emotional impact, where people not only remember the story but are carried away by how it made them feel.

In the spring of 2023, I had the incredible opportunity to intern on a Disney film shot in Albuquerque. For eight weeks, I worked 12-hour days, quickly expanding my on-set knowledge and skills. It was a transformative experience that solidified my passion for the industry and introduced me to an amazing network of professionals.

I graduated in May of 2024 and joined the IATSE Local 600, the International Cinematographers Guild (ICG). I now work as Digital Utilities in the camera department on Hollywood films in Albuquerque, applying everything I've learned in both school and professional settings.

Other notable projects include working as a PA on a Chevy commercial, interning at Serious Grippage, serving as best boy for the short film This is the End of Us, and working on various short films and capstones. Between my classes at UNM and the training from Goodwill Industries, Stagecoach Foundation, and IATSE, I've built a strong foundation in the film industry.

Fun Fact: I enjoy astrophotography and am fluent in American Sign Language (ASL).