Chris Highlands steps into the roles of actor and filmmaker with his short film I’ll Be There, a heartfelt dive into fatherhood and the fragile threads that hold families together. The story captures a tender moment between a dad and his baby daughter, all while he grapples with the reality of an impending loss. It’s simple yet profoundly moving—a film that lingers in your mind long after it ends.
At its core, I’ll Be There feels like an intimate one-act play, most of it taking place by a baby’s crib. Sounds straightforward, right? But the emotional layers make it so much more. Highlands plays a new dad hanging out with his baby girl while processing the looming death of his own father. The story masterfully balances beginnings and endings, with Highlands delivering a monologue that blends memories, raw truths, and deeper reflections. You feel the weight of his grief and uncertainty, but also the beauty of those fleeting moments of connection with his child.
Highlands’ performance is refreshingly low-key. He doesn’t go for big, dramatic gestures; instead, it’s all in the tone of his voice—like you’re eavesdropping on his private thoughts. The way he recalls stories about his own dad feels so natural, it’s easy to forget you’re watching a scripted film.
One particularly touching moment is a childhood memory of dance classes, and the nerves of asking his dad for permission to go. It’s these little anecdotes that paint a picture of a dad who’s not perfect but is clearly full of love. They also spark reflections on what it means to be a parent and how the way we’re raised shapes who we are for our kids.
The nursery setting is minimal but impactful, brought to life by Preston Tyler Ward’s cinematography. The camera focuses on small, meaningful details that pull you into the father-daughter bond. There’s also a clever use of text messages appearing on-screen, showing updates from the hospital where the protagonist’s sister is with their ailing father. This mix of monologue and text adds a layer of depth, highlighting the dual realities the dad is juggling—being there for his baby while facing a family crisis.
It’s no wonder I’ll Be There has already snagged the Programmer’s Prize for Exceptional Filmmaking at Film Invasion LA. The recognition speaks to Highlands’ talent and the universal themes of his story. It hits on the love, responsibilities, and quiet fears that come with being both a parent and a child.
Highlands is definitely a filmmaker to watch. Alongside this deeply personal project, he’s also expanding his acting career. He’ll appear in Opus, an A24 horror film premiering at Sundance. With a cast that includes Ayo Edebiri and John Malkovich, the film is already generating buzz, and it’s also bound to shine a spotlight on Highlands.
I’ll Be There leaves you with a simple but profound reminder: cherish your loved ones, savor the small moments, and embrace life’s imperfections. Highlands may downplay his role, but his storytelling is far from ordinary. Haven’t seen it yet? Check it out on YouTube, share it with someone who matters, and let its quiet brilliance work its magic.