There’s no guidebook for parenthood. You learn as you go, figuring it out one day at a time, and it’s far from simple. In his latest short film, I’ll Be There, actor, writer, and director Chris Highlands brings this journey to life with raw honesty, diving into the joys and heartaches of being a new parent while also wrestling with the looming shadow of loss. The film, which premiered at Film Invasion LA in June 2024 and claimed the Programmer’s Prize for Exceptional Filmmaking, is now reaching online audiences—and it’s already turning heads.
The story takes place entirely inside a baby’s crib, where a father talks to his baby daughter. It’s not your typical bedtime conversation. Instead, he reflects on life, what it means to be a parent, and how to face the inevitabilities of life and death. Highlands’ performance is understated but powerful, drawing viewers into his character’s vulnerability. There’s humor, too, little anecdotes and moments of levity that keep the film from becoming too heavy, making the emotional punches hit even harder.
I’ll Be There’s simplicity makes it extra special. There’s no elaborate set design or complex storyline. It’s just a dad, a baby, and a whole lot of heartfelt honesty. That stripped-down approach is exactly what makes the film so relatable. It’s easy to see yourself in the father’s shoes, navigating love, loss, and the messiness of life.
Chris Highlands isn’t new to storytelling. Back in 2020, his debut short film, Crystal Pines, was featured at The Big Apple Film Festival and the Stockholm City Film Festival. That film hinted at his knack for crafting compelling narratives, but I’ll Be There feels like a leap forward—more personal, more refined. The recognition it received at Film Invasion LA proves Highlands is a filmmaker to watch.
A talented crew helped bring Highlands’ vision to life. Cinematographer Preston Tyler Ward captures the warmth and intimacy of the setting, while Alexandre Côté’s music adds depth and emotion. Editor Landry Allbright keeps the pacing tight, and the result is a film that flows naturally and keeps the audience engaged. Highlands produced the project alongside Kelsey Landon, underscoring the collaborative effort that went into this labor of love.
While I’ll Be There takes center stage right now, Highlands had another exciting project recently. He was part of the cast of “Opus,” an A24 film directed by Mark Anthony Green. The film, featuring big names like Ayo Edebiri, John Malkovich, and Murray Bartlett, debuted in the Midnight section at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival. Appearing in such a buzz-worthy project solidified his growing presence in the industry.
The release of I’ll Be There brings a sense of optimism. Highlands hopes the film will connect with a wide audience and inspire meaningful conversations. Parenthood is a journey full of intertwined emotions—uncertainty, joy, fear, and love—and Highlands brings these moments to life with authenticity and a relatable touch.
Watch ‘I’ll Be There’ now, and make sure to share it with your loved ones. To learn more about Chris Highlands and his endeavors, follow him on Instagram and check him out on IMDb.
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