The indie film 'Childish Things', created by Maine natives Nick and Cash Cassidy, has captured the attention of festival audiences in California and Vermont, with its selection as the opening night feature at the Vacationland Film Festival in Biddeford. The film, which follows a 30-year-old amateur musician on a cross-country journey to sell his beloved blue tour bus amidst personal pressures, was shot on an actual roadtrip from Maine to California. This approach, along with a four-figure budget and a three-person crew, underscores the Cassidy brothers' commitment to a grassroots filmmaking process.
Nick Cassidy, the film's director, emphasized the importance of improvisation and actor freedom in creating authentic performances. 'Giving our cast the freedom to explore and follow their instincts is what makes the performances feel so real and alive,' he said. Producer Cash Cassidy highlighted the communal effort behind the project, noting the use of borrowed equipment and the involvement of friends and family in nearly every role.
The success of 'Childish Things' at festivals, including a sold-out Los Angeles premiere, speaks to the growing appreciation for indie films that prioritize storytelling and authenticity over big budgets. The film's upcoming Maine premiere on August 2nd at the Entertainment Cinemas in South Portland marks a homecoming for the Cassidy brothers and their project. Additional screenings and details can be found at www.cassidy.pictures/childish-things.
This story is significant as it highlights the viability of grassroots filmmaking in an industry often dominated by high-budget productions. 'Childish Things' demonstrates how passion, community support, and innovative approaches can lead to compelling cinema that resonates with audiences, offering inspiration to aspiring filmmakers everywhere.


