On Aug. 29, two university students premiered their new short film, “No One Ever Comes,” directed by Jay Lee Sanders and written and produced by Elisa Broche. The film serves as a reflective piece, focused on the ideas of aging and memory, alongside the moments in our lives that keep us connected. The students working on the film also included two recent university graduates, Sydney Field as the editor and Ruth Eddy as the script editor and production assistant. Filmmaker Jack Axelrod also assisted in the creative support of the film.
The approximately 10 minute film explores the ideas of silence, anticipation and waiting in an emotional display of visuals and minimal use of dialogue. The main character, played by David Dotterer, goes through his daily life as an older man at home alone, as he waits for something to happen, or someone to show up to bring change to his life. As he goes through his routine, viewers watch the character eat breakfast, watch television and reminisce on past memories such as opening letters from his daughter. At the end of the film, he hears a knock on his door and opens it with happiness.
While in Honduras, the script was written by Broche and later brought to life under Sanders and the crew.
“With the guidance of Professor Tom Garrett in securing the location, and the wholehearted commitment of our actor David, whose support and enthusiasm carried the project forward, the film quickly came together,” said Broche. “We extend our gratitude to Professor Paul Falcone and Brian Wells for the generosity in providing access to equipment, without which this project would not have been possible.”
Originally planned as a two-day shoot, the team was able to complete filming in one day.
The film not only touched the hearts of its viewers, but also its creators. Broche said how filmmaking is much more than just what it is to her.
“I’ve always lacked confidence in my writing, but I believe filmmaking is more than making movies—it’s about provoking emotions,” she said. “Growing up as an only child surrounded by elders gave me a soft spot for them; they’re the foundation of our society, carrying history in their memories in a way books never can. I pray God continues to give me the people and resources to keep creating, because even though every finished film fills me with fear—will people like it?—it’s a fear I never want to lose.”
In relation to the film, Sanders also said, “this is another blessing for me, not just because I’m able to use this as another learning experience and continue to improve myself in this realm of being a director, but also finding satisfaction in being able to bless another even if it is literally one person. So, from both of those perspectives, I can be very proud of this film and of the people who helped support its creation.”
Broche and Sanders founded their own film production company in 2024, Voices That Imagine, Dream and Act (VIDA). “We are rooted in storytelling, experimentation, and a spirit of ambition,” said Broche. “Our mission is to create boldly, grow together as filmmakers, and support one another because we believe we are always stronger together.”
“No One Ever Comes” is available to watch on the VIDA Productions YouTube channel.
