Feature Film - Omaha - Directed by Cole Webley

OMAHA is set against the backdrop of 2008 economic crisis. It tells the story of a struggling father on a roadtrip across the American West with his two children Ella and Charlie. Dad, played by John Magaro, wants only to give his children the best he can offer and sets out towards Nebraska to find the answers. This film is about fatherhood. It is about grief, love, and vulnerability. It is as relevant today as it was in 2008. It is an examination of the fringes of society and hopes to put a face to what would otherwise be a forgotten statistic.

This is the debut film of director, Cole Webley. Written by Sundance alumni, Robert Machoian, Produced by Preston Lee, Co-Produced by John Foss and myself. The film was shot in Utah, Wyoming, and Nebraska, was self-funded, and produced with a SAG interim agreement.

Produced in association with my company, Monarch Content, I worked side by side with Preston, John, Nik Hill & Russ Kendal in making this movie happen.

This being my first feature, I wasn't sure where I could contribute beyond post production. But very quickly, I became heavily involved—solving all sorts of problems. Most of my time was spent solving locations issues—scouting, managing and trying to stay at least 2 days ahead of the shoot, also worked with my partner Chase Johnson on picture vehicles, art, and logistics. Together with Connor Dean I managed post production from shoot til Sundance DCP delivery.

Omaha will Premiere at Sundance 2025 in the US dramatic competition line up. Happy to discuss the film in more detail upon request—this was a huge learning opportunity I wouldn't trade for anything.