2023 FHFF Director Series "Best of the Fest"

MISSION JOY: FINDING HAPPINESS IN TROUBLED TIMES & MY INVISIBLE HUSBAND

Expired February 19, 2022 7:45 AM
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When Dr. Shelley Lynch, a highly regarded mental health counselor, was forced to directly confront the reality of her husband’s sudden death, she heard a voice. 


That voice was her late husband Roy, letting her know she had a very special mission, to go out and get herself a camera and start taking pictures. She had no idea at the time what journey of self-discovery the camera would take her on. 


With Roy by her side and an open heart, the film explores the magical connection Shelley has with these unique creatures that inspire millions. The film dives into how their bonds were formed and how it has impacted her life in amazing ways.


The story illustrates how the sun continues to shine, even in the darkest of times providing a place of safety for healing. 


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Friday Harbor Film Festival thanks Madrone Cellars & Cider San Juan Island for sponsoring this film.


Director Statement

I chose to direct this film because the project was borne from just a small YouTube video with Shelley. Right out of the gate it was fascinating to get into her world with the dolphins. It was an honor to be asked to direct it. 


I wanted the viewer to experience a full spectrum of emotions by sharing the story which brings out highs and lows and everything in between. 


There were many challenges along the way, it was supposed to be a larger team doing the project but COVID hit, so the production side was quite limited. Along with COVID, the challenge of waiting for the wildlife to show added some time to the project. And, I experienced a significant loss halfway through filming. Since the film is about loss it seemed ironic at the time. 


I‘ve always been a fan of BBC Blue Planet series, not that this film is like that but I’ve always loved nature and wildlife so this seemed natural for me to be a part of. 


This film will always be special to me because of the year and a half it took to make. The dolphins left an impression on me for sure and the friendships will continue over time. The initial script which was a list of questions remained the same through filming with some additional talking points and stories added in. The title also changed toward the end of filming. 


I believe working on this film will help me with future projects because of the experience with wildlife and weather. Also, learning a new mirrorless setup will be helpful in the future. 

Brent Eite- Director of My Invisible Husband


Director Biography - Brent Eite


Brent Eite

Nottingham England.

Licensed UAS Pilot.

Film-maker, Photographer, Producer/Director, Editor, and Writer.

Brent was heavily involved in the music industry in the UK before migrating to Millbrook, New York in the early 90's. That's where he met photographer Buck Lewis. Their friendship and creative partnership grew for over 2 decades and continues to grow. Both now residing in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Brent Captains the F.P.V. ship but states "This would not be possible without the help of my Amazing Team"

  • Year
    2021
  • Runtime
    25 minutes
  • Language
    English
  • Country
    United States
  • Director
    Brent Eite
  • Screenwriter
    Simon Wan
  • Producer
    Shelley Lynch
  • Cast
    Shelley Lynch