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A Boat for My Brother

Matthew Boyd
United States, 2023, 14 min.

In English.
Includes adult language.

AIFF Award Winner:
Best Documentary Short

After the tragic death of his little brother, Johnnie Oberg sets out to put on a Viking funeral in his honor, an ode to their late father's Scandinavian heritage. A custom-built boat, flaming arrows, and a California lake steeped in childhood memories sets the stage to make this wistful last wish a reality.

Director's Statement

The original intent of this project was simple, to document this unique memorial ceremony for my friend. I was immediately intrigued by the idea of capturing this once in a lifetime event, the convergence of nature, ritual, archery, and fire. In the end, the project became a powerful medium through which my friend could process his grief, a form of catharsis beyond anything he expected. His mother, Regina, also died unexpectedly only days before the editing was completed, so this film is in honor of her as well.

Category: Short Doc, Award Winner.
Themes: Family, Relationships.

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