Director's Statement
Fighter was born during a transformative period in my life. I had been living in Colombia for about six months when the story began to take shape. At that time, the country was grappling with significant immigration issues, a situation I had only associated with the United States. This parallel hit close to home, as my own family migrated to the U.S. years ago. It made me reflect on themes of displacement, loyalty, and the sacrifices families make for one another.
I imagined Jason, a man who returns to his homeland after a prolonged absence, having fought in a massive war. But this isn't a triumphant homecoming—it's driven by urgency and love. His family is in grave danger, and his return is both a reckoning with his past and a fight for his future. Setting the story in a futuristic Bogotá allowed me to explore these themes through a speculative lens. I envisioned a post-apocalyptic world shaped by an imaginary war between China and the United States. Industrial locations became the backdrop, with a gritty mise-en-scène that conveyed the tension and decay of a world in turmoil.
Symbolism played a vital role in shaping this world. The secondary characters all wore masks, reflecting a society controlled by strict rules and anonymity. This decision underscores the oppressive environment Jason must navigate to save his family. At the heart of the film, however, is the relationship between Jason and his sister. Their bond drives the emotional core of the story. It is imperative to me that their familial connection feels authentic and deeply rooted in love. This is not just a tale of survival—it is a family love story set against the backdrop of chaos and conflict. Through Fighter, I am aiming to blend an intimate narrative with a broader exploration of societal challenges, creating a world that feels both otherworldly and achingly real.
David Higinio - Writer/Director/Producer
David Higinio is a Colombian-American film director, producer, and writer, as well as the founder of Origins Films. With over 15 short films under his belt, his work has garnered accolades at international film festivals, reflecting his talent for crafting narratives that delve into personal and societal conflicts while drawing inspiration from his rich Latin heritage. David is a graduate of NYU’s Film Production program, the UCLA Extension Directors Program, and EICTV’s prestigious film production program in Cuba. He has also honed his craft through the Directors Workshop and at the Congo Film School, further enriching his creative vision with diverse perspectives and approaches to storytelling. Known for his ability to connect with actors and his meticulous attention to visual detail, David creates films that are both emotionally resonant and visually captivating. Rooted in values of passion, respect, integrity, and collaboration, David believes in the transformative power of storytelling to inspire change. Through his leadership and dedication, he continues to produce stories that resonate deeply with audiences worldwide.
Director's Statement
Fighter was born during a transformative period in my life. I had been living in Colombia for about six months when the story began to take shape. At that time, the country was grappling with significant immigration issues, a situation I had only associated with the United States. This parallel hit close to home, as my own family migrated to the U.S. years ago. It made me reflect on themes of displacement, loyalty, and the sacrifices families make for one another.
I imagined Jason, a man who returns to his homeland after a prolonged absence, having fought in a massive war. But this isn't a triumphant homecoming—it's driven by urgency and love. His family is in grave danger, and his return is both a reckoning with his past and a fight for his future. Setting the story in a futuristic Bogotá allowed me to explore these themes through a speculative lens. I envisioned a post-apocalyptic world shaped by an imaginary war between China and the United States. Industrial locations became the backdrop, with a gritty mise-en-scène that conveyed the tension and decay of a world in turmoil.
Symbolism played a vital role in shaping this world. The secondary characters all wore masks, reflecting a society controlled by strict rules and anonymity. This decision underscores the oppressive environment Jason must navigate to save his family. At the heart of the film, however, is the relationship between Jason and his sister. Their bond drives the emotional core of the story. It is imperative to me that their familial connection feels authentic and deeply rooted in love. This is not just a tale of survival—it is a family love story set against the backdrop of chaos and conflict. Through Fighter, I am aiming to blend an intimate narrative with a broader exploration of societal challenges, creating a world that feels both otherworldly and achingly real.
David Higinio - Writer/Director/Producer
David Higinio is a Colombian-American film director, producer, and writer, as well as the founder of Origins Films. With over 15 short films under his belt, his work has garnered accolades at international film festivals, reflecting his talent for crafting narratives that delve into personal and societal conflicts while drawing inspiration from his rich Latin heritage. David is a graduate of NYU’s Film Production program, the UCLA Extension Directors Program, and EICTV’s prestigious film production program in Cuba. He has also honed his craft through the Directors Workshop and at the Congo Film School, further enriching his creative vision with diverse perspectives and approaches to storytelling. Known for his ability to connect with actors and his meticulous attention to visual detail, David creates films that are both emotionally resonant and visually captivating. Rooted in values of passion, respect, integrity, and collaboration, David believes in the transformative power of storytelling to inspire change. Through his leadership and dedication, he continues to produce stories that resonate deeply with audiences worldwide.
