Julie Stafford Straton
Director of “Dog River”
Meet the Creator
A huge thank you to Julie for these thoughtful answers and for giving us a glimpse behind the scenes of your work. We at Hollywood Indie Festival are cheering you on as you continue to create. Enjoy the interview below!
What is the central conflict and unique selling point of your project?
After a tornado shatters their Georgia town, two cousins spend a sweltering season on the Dog River hunting a monster that shouldn’t exist. A story of dysfunctional families, the weight of legacy, and the high-stakes friendship of two boys who refuse to let grief drown them.
Who is the ideal viewer for this project, and which existing films/series is it most comparable to?
The ideal viewer is an audience seeking “hard-won hope” and authentic, character-driven stories. Visually, the film captures the gritty, sun-bleached Southern texture seen in films like Mud, while tonally it follows the spirited, uplifting resilience of The Peanut Butter Falcon.
What was the primary inspiration behind this story, and why is now the right time for the world to see it?
Inspired by the contrast between a violent storm and the “slow and still” rhythm of a Georgia summer, Dog River focuses on the capacity for joy in the midst of recovery. Set to the melodic, rhythmic energy of Low Light’s “Summer Snow,” the film is a tribute to the resilient spirit of children who find wonder—and monsters—even when the world feels broken. Now is the time for a story that proves healing doesn’t always have to be heavy.
Is the project fully completed, or are you currently seeking distribution, finishing funds, or representation?
The project is fully completed and has already garnered top honors, including Best Made in Georgia and Best Sound Design. We are currently seeking distribution and representation to share this spirited Georgia story with a wider global audience. Dog River is Film # 2 in the Bertie Cabash (also entered separately) Universe which could include a Limited Series.