Buried Words
Stroke and Aphasia Short Film
(18 minutes)
FILM SYNOPSIS: Megan bonds remotely with her distant mother through virtual reality, but everything changes when her mom suffers from a stroke during one of their sessions. When Megan serves as primary caregiver to her mother during winter break, they must learn to adapt their communication to sustain their close relationship.
WATCH THE FILM
Message from Creator
My mother had a stroke in November of 2014 and acquired expressive aphasia as a result.
Helping her through recovery taught me so much about true human connection, which is so much more than the words we share.
As a filmmaker by passion, this is my way of expressing myself and the power of one story. "
Nicholas Orris,
Co - Writer / Director
Share this Film with
STROKE AND APHASIA
COMMUNITIES
and anyone you know affected by brain trauma, and their families.
Scroll Down
Aphasia: Definition
Aphasia is an impairment of language, affecting the production or comprehension of speech and the ability to read or write. Aphasia is always due to injury to the brain - most commonly from a stroke. Aphasia does not affect intelligence.
^ If you or anyone you know has needs support, click the link above ^
Mother & Son Collaboration
After a full recovery from her stroke in 2014, Nina Orris worked as Production Designer on the film not letting Expressive Aphasia slow her down.
A lover of classic film herself, Nina put her artistic eye into the look of the film. Shot on-location at her home in Stone Harbor NJ, Nick and Nina collaborated to craft the look and feel of every space. Speaking directly with the cast, she helped them understand firsthand what aphasia is like.
She also helped throughout pre-production reviewing drafts of the script and assisting with the casting process. Collaborating on Buried Words was a meaningful way for Nick and Nina to process their own emotions surrounding their story.
Lending a Voice
to Aphasia
"Hearing personal stories while attending several aphasia support groups, I am surprised with the frequent impatience, from both medical professionals and from loved ones, that stroke survivors with aphasia encounter.
I have experienced first hand the challenges of seeing a loved one affected by stroke and aphasia in a vulnerable state, often leading to frustration when feeling or witnessing lack of patience. This strained communication can have consequences on the relationships between stroke survivors, their families, and friends.
After my mother's stroke, we both had to adapt to the big changes in our means of communication. Unable to rely on our words alone, we showed up for one another in an effort to sustain the closeness we share. Ultimately, I believe many are yearning for this type of authentic human connection especially during the coronavirus pandemic.
My mother and I are fortunate enough to have developed a deeper bond and friendship through these trials and the production of this film, though I know our story isn’t always the case for others.
I made this film with a desire to share a message of hope. That although challenging, authentic connection and meaningful communication can be achieved between loved ones even after a brain trauma." - Nick Orris
- Nick with his mother Nina at the 2009 Greenfield Youth Film Festival
Schedule a Special Screening
with the Filmmakers!
To promote the value in all human life, Nick would love to share the experience of the film, hear your stories of recovery and growth, and answer questions about his personal experience with stroke, aphasia, and the filmmaking process. Email nick@orrisproductions.com directly to learn how to schedule your own Buried Words watch party!
Buried Words
An Original Short Film
May all those experiencing aphasia find patience and understanding in their communities.
FILM CREDITS
In Dedication to
Nina Orris
Loving Mother, Amazing Support, Inspiration to Many
Cast:
Rachel Peters - Megan
Lisa King - Diane
Peter Gallager - Jim
(Voice of) Kacki Schwartz - VR Therapist
Written, Directed, and Edited by: Nicholas Orris
Screenplay written by: Nicholas Poppell & Nicholas Orris
Produced by: Matt Deblinger
Crew:
Director of Photography: Ryan Hammaker
Grip & Lighting: Ben Musser
Audio Technician: Sean Crossland
DIT: Greg Bartlett
Production Designer: Nina Orris
Post:
Video Editor: Nicholas Orris
Assistant Editor: Greg Bartlett
Audio Mixing & Mastering: Cody Troyer
Score by: Jacob Kelberman
“When Christmas Comes Around”
By: Cody FryBy:
"Summertime State of Mind"
By: Laura Leighe
“Silent Night”
By: E’s Jammy-Jamz
Special
Thanks to:
Mark Orris and the Bentley Crew
Glyn Lewis
Gayle Dede
& Philadelphia Aphasia Community at Temple
Ashley Shapiro & Magee Rehab
Joyce Hoffman & her Stroke Tales Blog
Brad & Harbor Square Theater
Jenny Olson & The Borough of Stone Harbor
Hilary Kelly
And all Contributors to the
Buried Words: Stroke Survivor Film & Fundraiser
© 2021 Orris Productions