Interview by Paul Salfen
In an era of grim headlines and blockbuster bombast, “The Short Game” arrives as a breath of fresh air—a heartfelt indie film that blends sports drama with profound family ties. Directed by Frank Sanza and produced by David Parks, this uplifting tale follows Jeremy Avery, a high school golfer chasing a college scholarship at the State Championship. But the fairway is fraught with challenges: Jeremy grapples with his mother’s cancer recovery, the care of his younger autistic brother, Ethan, and a ruthless rival willing to cheat for victory. As he discovers Ethan’s savant-like talents, Jeremy faces a life-altering choice between personal glory and standing by his brother. AMFM Magazine’s Paul Salfen sat down with Sanza and Parks to discuss the film’s timely resonance, the heat-soaked production, and the deeper messages that make “The Short Game” a hole-in-one for audiences craving hope.
“This movie is so sweet and so good, and it’s kind of what we need right about now,” Salfen began, setting the tone for a warm and candid chat. Parks couldn’t agree more: “There’s a lot of dark stuff going on in the world and a lot of bad news. This is a breath of fresh air.” Sanza added that while he loves superhero epics as much as anyone, “the movies that really move us are the ones where you think about it afterwards and talk about it… that can affect important thought, conversation, and even change in people.”
The film’s release, delayed by unpredictable global events, now feels perfectly timed. “No one can predict these times, but it’s the right time now,” Sanza said. He and Parks see “The Short Game” as a celebration of real-life heroes—ordinary people like Jeremy, whose struggles with family pressures and moral dilemmas resonate universally. As Sanza noted, these stories often outshine caped crusaders, offering a grounded heroism that hits close to home.
Filming on a North Dallas golf course in the blistering summer of 2023 tested the crew’s endurance. “The only thing that wasn’t a pleasure was the heat,” Sanza admitted, recalling temperatures exceeding 105 degrees for over a week. “It was brutal in that respect. But we got through it… because of the attitude of our people who were excited to be there and believed in the product.”
That camaraderie shines through in behind-the-scenes videos shared on social media, capturing laughter and resilience amid the swelter. Parks reflected on the set’s positive vibe: “We have no bad day memories. Never a day where we were like, ‘Let’s just get through today and then we’ll reset.’” He echoed a piece of early-career advice: “The worst day on a set is better than the best day in an office.” For Sanza and Parks, the talented and tight-knit team made the grueling shoot a labor of love.
For those inspired to tell their own stories, Sanza and Parks offered practical advice. “Put one foot in front of the other and just start with an idea,” Sanza urged. “You never know where that’s going to take you. But don’t give up.” He emphasized enjoying the process, recalling how writing the script was rewarding even if it never reached the screen. “If you don’t love it, I wouldn’t do it,” he added.
Parks stressed persistence and the primacy of story: “Everybody has a script idea. Not many people are able to actually write and finish a script… It’s all about story. Good cinematography, good music isn’t going to save a bad story.” Their words are a reminder that passion and a strong narrative are the bedrock of meaningful filmmaking.
With a nod to Salfen’s co-host, Dallas Cowboys legend Drew Pearson, the conversation turned to career-defining “Hail Mary” moments. For Sanza, it was “The Short Game” itself: “Going for it… becomes real serious when you finally get the funds… This is really happening.” Securing financing and assembling a stellar cast and crew marked a surreal milestone for the first-time director.
Parks shared a daring leap from 2007, when he left a cushy job to produce Live Earth, a 24-hour global concert series addressing the climate crisis. “It was impossible. We probably will fail miserably,” his boss warned, yet the risk led to the largest entertainment broadcast in history. “If we pull it off, we’ll be rock stars,” Parks recalled, noting how the experience shaped his fearless approach to projects like “The Short Game.”
When asked about their guiding principles, Sanza pointed to faith and focus: “Put one foot in front of the other, just focusing on one thing… It’s very apropos in golf because if you have a bad hole, you got to put that out of your mind.” Parks’ mantra is a single word: “Yes.” By embracing opportunities, he’s unlocked remarkable experiences, from global broadcasts to collaborating with Sanza, his close friend, on this film.
More than a sports drama, “The Short Game” delivers a powerful message about what it means to win. Sanza hopes audiences take away that “true victory is choosing to do the right thing when it’s hard and tough. We all have tough decisions… This is an encouragement to do the right thing.” Parks added: “Gifts in life can come from unexpected people and unexpected places, just as Jeremy learns with Ethan.”
As Salfen wrapped up, he urged families to see the film: “Thank you for making this movie… We’re gonna tell everyone to check it out and bring the whole family.” With its blend of heart, humor, and moral depth, “The Short Game” is a reminder that life’s greatest triumphs often lie in sacrifice and connection, not just a trophy.
“The Short Game” is now playing in theaters nationwide. Follow the film’s social media for behind-the-scenes content and updates. For more, visit AMFM Magazine for exclusive interviews and entertainment insights.
