THE FUNERAL PHOTOGRAPHER | Omeleto

A photographer is hired for a funeral, then discovers the real reason she's there.
THE FUNERAL PHOTOGRAPHER is used with permission from Mark Strauss. Learn more at subtexter.com.
Julie has been hired to take photographs at a funeral. It's a somber occasion and she is a bit of a mess herself, but she is given strict instructions by the attendant to take a picture of everyone there -- and she must be done quickly before the service starts.
Julie is confused but goes about her job, trying to work as quickly as possible. But as she immerses herself in the funeral, she notices two suspicious men and wants to discover why they are there. In doing so, she also unravels the reason why she's been hired in the first place.
Directed by Ashley Thompson from a script written by Mark Strauss, this intriguing short drama weaves together mystery, drama and even suspense elements, all of which culminate in a surprising meditation on mortality, memory and the human experience.
The deft storytelling begins simply enough, with Julie trying to get her act together before heading into her job assignment. Disoriented, confused and out of it, she enters the funeral, trying to present a veneer of professionalism, but viewers get a sense that it could fall apart at any moment. At first, the funeral seems on the normal scale of things: somber, hushed and serious, rendered in muted, natural light and soft colors in the visuals. The mystery begins to build, however, when Julie receives very intense, serious instructions to photograph everyone at the funeral, delivered by an equally intense, serious attendant at the funeral home.
Thrown by the intensity of the instruction, Julie goes about the task of photographing the funeral. But through her lens, she quickly notices some suspicious men in the crowd. Actor Tara Hazel Walsh plays both the woman who is struggling personally with the professional who begins to notice something suspicious, pulling viewers along with her curiosity. She uses her ability to go anywhere as a photographer to investigate the situation. But the deeper she delves, the more she realizes that this is no normal job -- and it is also not a normal funeral.
THE FUNERAL PHOTOGRAPHER builds up tension as Julie edges closer to the truth, culminating in a reveal that recasts the earlier part of the narrative in a new, more philosophical light. To be more specific would give it away, but it does reveal a larger design at work, one that gives Julie a new role and meaning moving forward. She wraps up her job, understanding finally why she had it in the first place and finds herself with enough clarity to go on to the next one with greater understanding and compassion.

[@braytonlife]

I'm actually a photographer. While I have never shot a funeral... I have shot some really sad and heavy events... This story is amazing and well crafted... I did not see the twist coming... well done.

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks so much for watching and for your kind words, Nathan! ❤️🙏

[@Firebrand55]

"...actually, you're a little early..." Well done everyone involved in this excellent film!

[@markhstrauss]

Love that you connected with that line and thanks for your kind words! 🤎🙏

[@iamlethibe]

@@markhstrauss Is there a reason why she had to get a picture of every single one? Would she forget them if she did not? What did he mean by: "Thats not how this works?. He also does not respond to the question of it getting any easier. What about the end-what are the implications of him being a little early? Plesae elaborate. Thanks

[@markhstrauss]

@@iamlethibe Hi Lethibe, thanks so much for watching and for your insightful questions! SPOILERS AHEAD with my responses... . . . 1. Is there a reason why she had to get a picture of every single one? You are correct: she would forget them if she didn't get their photo. The reasoning behind this is this Funeral Photographer process is a way for the dead to remember the living. It's actually the narrative vision I originally had since funerals are about the living remembering the dead and I wanted to write something about the dead remembering the living. So, in this process, if the deceased doesn't get pictures of every person, they wouldn't be able to take their memories to the afterlife. It's one of the reasons for The Attendant role (the person who died last and the previous photographer); they do their best to make sure the current photographer gets photos of everyone they can before they find out they're dead. 2. What did he mean by: "That's not how this works?" When Julie tries to give him the picture of his widow and daughter (the clues to this are in dialogue in the vacuum room that he's Julie's brother and the little girl refers to Julie's husband as uncle David. Also in how Charlie looks on at them when the mother and daughter are talking), it means that these are her memories alone and she can't give them away. This is the only commentary in the film about whatever this mysterious Funeral Photographer process is. 3. He also does not respond to the question of it getting any easier. True. It's because he's about to tell her who the next deceased person is for her to become the next Attendant. The look on his face shows the sadness with which he has to share this news with Julie... 4. What about the end-what are the implications of him being a little early? This is the final (tragic) twist to end the film. The clues are there as to how and why the husband died: 1) When Julie is at the casket, he says, "What am I going to do without my Jules?" 2) When Charlie hands her the envelope, she says, "Already, who is it?" 3) She was late at the beginning of the film, but he's now early. With all that said, how do you think he died? BONUS QUESTION: Did you happen to catch the subtle clue who will be the next photographer after David? Thanks again! :) Mark

[@sentinelparadox]

Bravo. A sad situation, but a rather interesting concept. A departed one comes to assist the newly deceased, pass on. Photographs representing the last memories of all their loved ones, in the real world.

[@Newcenturion100]

I agree.

[@markhstrauss]

Spot on and thanks so much for your kind words! :)

[@hollyperrin7353]

Except who are those two guys who are at ALL the funerals? Ed Begley Jr. and Lurch… those two.

[@jim_regan]

...and on second viewing, the fact that the opening title transitions from Photographer Funeral to Funeral Photographer becomes more than just some random animation.

[@markhstrauss]

And this is why the wonderful Omeleto community never disappoints. 😊🙏 Great catch and thanks for watching, Jim!

[@misformargaret4028]

I guess in this interpretation, the deceased doesn't recognize her friends, family, co-workers, etc. When the revelation hits, the emotions explode into confusion, denial, anxiety and then blackout. She comes to and finally recognizes the person who went before her. Now it's her turn to assist her friend, family, co-worker...

[@markhstrauss]

Well said and spot on! This process of carrying memories (and ultimately helping the next person) is cyclical. There's even a clue in there who the next funeral photographer will be. :)

[@SenegalSunflower]

Does it only happen to event photographers who die? 😂

[@markhstrauss]

@@SenegalSunflower😂 To your point, I put a line of dialogue in there to tell the audience that she’s actually not a photographer. In the afterlife scene, when Charlie comes in he says, “You really missed your calling Jules. These look great. “

[@andreadaniel8792]

@@markhstrauss Now I have to go back and watch it again to see if I can find that clue.

[@markhstrauss]

@@andreadaniel8792Let me know if/when you see it! 😊👍🏻

[@Halmussa]

Hi! About some of the eggs that weren't discussed in the comment so far, what I think is: - the two men that make her anxious are the parallel on the living plane of what is happening on the dead plane: they are in queue to the coffin (and to salute the man who is about to die), they pass to one another a white enveloppe whose contain we do not know, that they keep inside their jacket close to their hearts, they are waiting for a guy who is actually a singer that sing "remember me" and at this time Charlie says "please tell me you got everyone" and again "remember me" so they invite, like Charlie does, to keep memories (for her on the people who are there and for the people who are there memories of her). Also the two guys that make her so stressed are actually close to her because they hug strongly her husband, he let himself go in tears in their presence, and the guy recieving the enloppe will have a speach and and "she makes him promise" to give that speach. The fact that they actually are close to her and reenacting passing the enveloppe is like Charlie is close to her like any "transition helper to photograph" as she will be for her husband. The fact that they stress her is like the pressure that Charlie put on her about "getting everyone" and their transitioning helper position are also shown in the fact that it's when they are arriving at the coffin that she goes there too and that Charlie call her Jules which is the key to unlock the person memory (the name the ones she loved the most called her, what a nice touch) which is the crossroads between the two guys, Charlie, her, the singer, the message of keeping memories, the husband (the mints ? The last breath I guess) - it's like the bridge between the living and the dead planes. It was à bit hard to understand their roles (if what I guessed is actually correct) - she said "you are early" for her husband but Charlie said she was "on time" so even if she died young and from sickness it was the time meant for her to die - she was smiling during taking pictures, indicating the pleasure she had to see the people, as Charlie smiled when he saw his daughter and her mother. She also smiled looking at the pictures she took. For this theory she actually was very stressed about the two guys that we establish were close to her but she also said "doucheb*" to Charlie before recognizing him so again it shows the parallel between the "transitioning companion" they represent (the ones chosen to stay silently by the side of the person while they are in shock facing their body in the coffin but leaving them for the emotional storm after that). But she particularly cried when she saw the picture of them, it could also be about her being particularly sad of saying goodbye to them or maybe the fact that they will follow them not long after regarding their reanacting roles? - it's right after charlie's daughter arrives and hug her uncle that it's time for the singer to arrive, for the message to be delivered, for the transition companions to hug the husband and for Charlie finishing his mission by unlocking the memory of Jules, which has given a chance to Charlie to see his loved ones again Is everything revealing in the comments now or there is more hidden things? Thanks!

[@markhstrauss]

Love this! As I’m digesting your comment, I feel like I’m gaining a deeper perspective on my own film. Since I want to give a reply worthy of the effort you’ve put into this interpretation, I’m trying to organize my thoughts. I didn’t want to leave you wondering and stay tuned! 😊👍🏻

[@gabriellebraswell3306]

Wow this really touched me especially since I just lost my mom . I started crying my eyes out at the end. This was a heartbreaking but beautiful film

[@nicholasvanorton7840]

My condolences Gabrielle.

[@andreadaniel8792]

I can imagine it would've been hard to watch with your mom's passing being so recent for you. I'm so sorry for your loss.

[@RPRosen-ki2fk]

This film won't spell it out for you, but it gives you everything you need if your willing to put a LITTLE WORK into it. After watching this a second time and utilizing MANY of the great viewer comments, I truly feel I have complete understanding of this film. Plus the writer Mark Strauss is very present and generous with information here in the comments. Thank you to the cast & crew for bringing this project to reality.

[@markhstrauss]

I really appreciate your comment! :)

[@selenasanchez4244]

I am seeing this on the 5 year anniversary of my husband's passing. There are no coincidences in life. ❤

[@markhstrauss]

I'm so sorry for the loss of your husband, Selena. What you shared here is one of the reasons I wanted to make this film. 🤎🙏

[@kaT-ori]

Love the acting of that actress. Besides that she looks like Rose from Titanic.

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks for the kind words! Fun fact about Tara… she’s from Ireland and has a thick Irish accent. When she auditioned we loved her and asked if she could do an American accent, and she nailed it! She’s such a tremendous talent.

[@kaT-ori]

@@markhstrauss ❤️

[@catherinejustcatherine1778]

​@@markhstrauss I'm glad you gave her a chance! She's great.

[@user-gj7hx4ry3g]

This was so beautiful and (to me) flawless. All of the acting was amazing. Tara's performance was especially worthy of note, but even smaller moments like the two older men moving in slow motion was perfect. Since this was about a photographer, it meant that the images had to be especially good, and they were. I doubt that it was intentional, but the fact that the recently departed (both times) are in a VW Beetle reminded me of the scarab, used in ancient Egypt to symbolize rebirth, transformation. Parking right be hind the hearse would have been a problem, unless you're the one about to be loaded into it. Can't wait to rewatch it, and to see more from this talented crew. Thank you!

[@markhstrauss]

Wow! Thanks for your lovely comments! ❤️🙏 I also appreciate the scarab reference, and you are 100% correct, that was not intentional. Serendipity with universe helping us tell a story! You also mention her parking behind the hearse. She puts the flag on top to justify parking there (even though the car isn’t really there). You are also zeroing in on an Easter egg… I chose that NO PARKING sign with the two arrows to show that she’ll be the one in the hearse. 🤔😉

[@user-gj7hx4ry3g]

@@markhstrauss Thank you for taking the time to reply. I was a lit major and miss discussing stories and always wanted to hear input from those who put the stories together. Thank you for your gift!

[@eugenetswong]

@@user-gj7hx4ry3g I love it when the creators help us to find the clue.

[@sophiapriest]

I wish all omeleto films had captions, otherwise I'd watch them more because it's already hard for me to focus on the films without them

[@lucyladyandhusband]

Same here.

[@markhstrauss]

@@lucyladyandhusband Captions were just added! 😊👍🏻

[@kleopardo]

@@markhstrauss Is it possible to contribute with translations and if it is, what is the procedure? Thanks a lot!

[@markhstrauss]

@@kleopardo Hi... if you mean with captions, they were added a few hours ago. Hope that helps!

[@eugenetswong]

@@markhstrauss He means non-English translations/captions.

[@AngelBlu7]

I understand her brother died & then Jules died, but they are both so young. Is there a reason why they both died or did they die together like in a car accident? It just seems strange that they’re both deceased & then her husband dies because he can’t live without her. So many things going on, it’s mesmerizing & the best video I’ve seen. I keep rewatching it to get a better understanding. I hope you make more videos & movies. It’s great writing & a superb script that keeps you engaged thru the entire video 👏🏼

[@markhstrauss]

Wow! I so appreciate your kind words about our film. Ashley (our director) and I talked about how Charlie died and we believe it was sudden, like a motorcycle accident, possibly years earlier (which is why he’s still wearing a flannel and jeans). The clue to how Julie died is when the women mentions that David was right there with her for the last 6 months, hinting that is was a prolonged illness. Hope that makes sense!

[@AngelBlu7]

Thank u so much for the explanation the other thing I did notice but forgot to mention how no one acknowledged Charlie or Jules. Jules was taking pictures & no one seemed to notice her. Also, at the beginning at the funeral home Charlie was at the entrance & smiled briefly at a man entering the room but the man didn’t respond. It wasn’t until Charlie yelled Jules loudly & no one looked over at him I knew he was a spirit. I just love this video of mystery, without violence or gore. 💜

[@ratgirl13]

I worked as a funeral photographer for a few years, and enjoyed this film very much-nice twist at the end. Bravo!

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks for sharing that you were a Funeral Photographer! 😊📸👍🏻 I can’t tell you how many times people are surprised to hear that there are actually funeral photographers. In very early drafts of the script, there was a snippet of dialogue between Julie and Charlie where he said something like, “There are two main times when loved ones are together, weddings, and funerals“ because Julie was confused why she was hired. I felt it was too on-the-nose and expositional, so cut it. This may have been the first inclination to make this film subtle to the point where it feels like it is itself a photograph. I appreciate you watching and thanks so much for your kind words! ❤️🙏

[@senob44]

The guy vacuuming is a keeper. I've never seen anyone so earnest, conscientious and thorough, even while being distracted.

[@ellenled]

But..he wasn’t being distracted. She was invisible because she was dead!

[@senob44]

@@ellenled I know ;)

[@gemstar7286]

@@ellenled Yeah i didn't expect that twist until she saw herself in the coffin . So i guess the person who dies who she knew , also becomes a photographer for their own funeral and the previous person always assists them ...... interesting .

[@markhstrauss]

@@gemstar7286 You are exactly right! And did you pick up on the easter egg that shows who will be the next photographer after the husband?

[@gemstar7286]

@@markhstrauss Yeah I think so, I might have to rewatch .

[@ysnmd305]

The thing i like about these short films is their attention to details. 1) She had heavy bad breath becoz her body was deceased 2) taking photos of people at her funeral meant the dead could also sense aura of people around their deceased body.

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks and I too love all the little details in films. Since you mention the mints, another subtle detail for you… The stripe on the mint box is the same stripe on The Attendant’s collar. 😊👍🏻

[@GonogoBonobo]

I watched it 3 times and still didn't get it all. Its only the 3rd time that I hear David saying "How I will do without Jules" and understood it was an intimate name only David used for her and why she was schocked when Charlie call her by that name. The enveloppe given to her is a symbol for "give to the next", as I see it. The end is disapointing when we see David coming in as the next photographer. Because he didn't aged and Julie says is early, my thought was that he died soon after her leaving the daugther without neither father and mother.

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks taking the time to really dig and for your comments! You’re certainly on the right track. The clues to who the young girl is comes from her mother when she says, “Go say hi to uncle David.” Which also helps tell us who the attendant is when Julie is with the guy vacuuming and she says “He looks like my brother, Charlie, but Charlie’s dead.“ The end is certainly meant to be sad, even though Julie and David are together again. The clues to how he died so soon after her are also woven into the narrative. The film is intentionally subtle, like a photograph, so I super appreciate your patience, and giving it extra watches! 😊🙏

[@MW-us3sv]

@@markhstrauss Ohhhhhh !!! I have just replied to you elsewhere to say I 'got' all of it apart from who's next, now you tell us this bit about how David passed away. Hmmmm, nice and subtle then, awesome.

[@markhstrauss]

@@MW-us3sv Ha! I just replied to your other comment. 😃 Yeah, the clues are there. In fact, I'm putting together some consolidated interpretations/spoilers/easter egg info to include at the bottom of my original post for those viewers who enjoy digging in deep to films. Thanks for your enthusiasm!

[@PatriotinArms]

Is late to a funeral, first thing out of her mouth is "I'm gonna get paid... right?" LMAO.

[@robertjackson3819]

Okay. Everything blew right past me on the initial viewing. I'm the kind of person that understood JAWS the first time, but anything with finesse and subtlety will leave me blinking. I knew I'd find help in the comments. Thanks, people. The second time...tears. Well done, Sir Strauss. Beautifully done. You've certainly got a nice touch.

[@markhstrauss]

Hi Robert, I really appreciate your kind words about our film! 🙂👍 I completely understand you not getting everything on the first pass. That's more common than uncommon. Since we crafted this story to feel like you're looking at a photo, it's only after understanding more about what's in that "photo" that we start to have a deeper, emotional experience. Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to share your thoughts!

[@TurtleWhisperer8]

It's about addiction

[@markhstrauss]

@@TurtleWhisperer8 That’s a fascinating interpretation! What led you to that conclusion?

[@saurabhkashyap6831]

The climax reveals the whole story. Beautiful work.

[@markhstrauss]

I so appreciate your kind words! 🙂🙏

[@craigjohnson4302]

It's our last "shot" to "develop" our last memories.

[@markhstrauss]

I see what you did there, Craig. 😃Thanks so much for taking the time watch our film!

[@anonymouslearner2454]

underrated 😢😢

[@craigjohnson4302]

​@@markhstraussit's a short just waiting to be made pun of... Oops, I did it again.

[@markhstrauss]

@@craigjohnson4302 I mean... who doesn't like a good pun? Frankly, I'm suspicious of those who don't. 😆

[@andrewhancock2451]

What happens if she doesn't manage to photograph everyone? And why is Charlie being so mysterious an pushy without *explaining* the purpose of photographing everyone? And what was the envelope that one of the older gentlemen pass to another older gentlman? So many questions......

[@quokka_11]

It takes them a minute to get the picture.

[@catweasle5737]

Why does youtube feel the need to play the music louder than the people talking?

[@cellinacodaglio3600]

It's unbearable!!😑

[@---kx1xc]

it's nighttime so i cant keep turning the volume up to hear it.

[@SharonNolfi]

It's very hard to hear the conversation near the end as Jules looks at the photos. What did they say to each other before the rewind to the beginning scene? Closed captions would be helpful as the music is very loud at that point.

[@joem13yearsago73]

I think she said something along the lines of- "poopyhead fart poopyhead fart".

[@markhstrauss]

Captions were just added.

[@caspiansfriend]

I didn't feel that the music was too loud, honestly. On the other hand, the actors' articulation was the challenging part to my 60+ years old ears. But their dialog was not challenging at all to younger ears. That said, with my not at all cheap over the ear headset, I could understand Charlie and Jules. I feel that their quiet, barely articulate voices were very appropriate, given the situation. The following is my transcript of their conversation--where they give out numerous critical details.............................................. Charlie: You really missed your calling, Jules. Those look great. (Clearly Jules was not a photographer before she died. They hug. Then she picks the photos back up. Looks at a couple, stops at a woman her age and says) "Pam. I'm so sorry!" This moment is super important. For, obviously she and Pam have some kind of connection. But... during the funeral the little girl called Pam "mommy" earlier and asks "when can I see Daddy?" Pam doesn't know what to say.... as Charlie looks at them with his version of affection--a very subdued but warm smile. I believe that "Jules" and "Charlie" were not married but brother and sister. Back to the conversation over the music.... Jules: "I know that you were just trying to make sure I got everyone for her." Charlie: "It's OK. At least you didn't call me 'dooshbag' like you used to do." (Ah. Important tid bit. And actually, she did, but Charlie didn't hear her. More evidence that they are brother and sister) Jules (looking at the mother/daughter photo): she's beautiful. You should keep this one Charlie: Thanks. That's not how this works. (more evidence that it's a photo of his wife and daughter) Jules comes upon the photo of "uncle David," pulls it aside and looks at only it. She's trying very hard to keep it together now. Jules: "Does it ever get any easier? ....... Charlie?" Now Charlie, with a great deal of struggling inside, hands the "money" to Jules. By now she knows what it means. Jules: "Already?" She takes a couple of deep breathes trying to calm herself and asks "Who is it?" Charlie looks at her with that mixture of dread, pain and resolve. And then we go fade to Black. Next scene, Jules has taken over the role that Charlie had with her as we see David enter the room, a little bewildered and he clearly does not recognize Jules. She, being just as stoic as Charlie was with her, starts the process with David. And so the cycle continues.

[@wakingtheworld]

@@caspiansfriend Well compiled. This would have taken you time as well, stop/starting the video. Thank you.

[@markhstrauss]

@@caspiansfriend ​​⁠Wow! Thanks so much for taking your time to dig in so deep and making this post.😊👍🏻 You have a really good insight into what’s actually happening in the film! I’m glad that we now have the captions enabled to make it easier for subsequent viewings to get the subtleties of what’s being said.

[@andreadaniel8792]

I loved this so much. It made me so sad at the end, but it was so creatively done, I want to watch it a few more times to catch some of the clues the creator sprinkled throughout that he mentions in these comments. This is so well done.

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks so much for digging in to the film and for your kind words, Andrea! 🤎🙏 Feel free to drop a note here with any additional thoughts, interpretations or clarifications on the subtleties woven throughout the film.

[@LivingInTheShade]

My heart, my heart, this was very touching and sad. The ending 😭😭😭😭😭

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks for watching and for your kind words about how touching the film is. My intent in writing it and our goal in creating the film was for it to be reflection of one’s own experience with loss and grief. ❤️🙏

[@LivingInTheShade]

@@markhstrauss It was fantastic 👏

[@markhstrauss]

@@LivingInTheShade❤

[@rgarlinyc]

Very well crafted throughout - from writing to direction to acting to cinematography - and a clever twist that slowly and hauntingly dawns on you.

[@markhstrauss]

Thank you so much for your kind words!❤️🙏

[@Maria-tm8jg]

So the guy who i guess was the husband died right after her funeral?The redhead said that he came early, so I'm guessing he un-alived himself?

[@cellinacodaglio3600]

I think you are right.

[@markhstrauss]

You are correct, Maria. Kudos for picking up on that subtle clue!

[@Maria-tm8jg]

​@@markhstraussamazing work by the way! :)

[@jemjem9699]

Interesting movie but i could not understand very well what was being said . Captions would have helped very muchl

[@eugenetswong]

English captions have been added after your comment.

[@jemjem9699]

@@eugenetswong thank you very much

[@susieturk1]

Such an interesting concept. I had to go back again. To figure out who the first guy was. A beautiful and then tragic short. I will not forget this one for a long time.

[@markhstrauss]

I really appreciate these kind words, Susie!❤️🙏

[@eress1816]

This is fantastic! Felt a range of emotions over the course of the film. Well done to the team and everybody involved!

[@markhstrauss]

Wow... thanks so much for this review and love to hear you felt a range of emotions! 😃👍

[@jacobdayhuff4952]

She's a great actress, love this short.

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks, Jacob! :)

[@Kinship1]

This was astounding. Im heartbroken.

[@2pie2mash]

For many reasons people struggle in life and many leave their physical being way too early, those left behind are left feeling lost and confused......overwhelmed. I see this as the baton (camera in this case), that early leavers are handed to 'show' themselves and others what they have left behind. While it is possible to be at peace within yourself and accept death, crossing over at a younger age doesn't have the peace or clarity for all involved. You might be looking for reasons, but there are no reasons. “...and then, I have nature and art and poetry, and if that is not enough, what is enough?” ~ Vincent Willem van Gogh Thank you Omeleto and the film makers of this excellent short 🌷🎶🙏🫶☯🕊☮🧡

[@markhstrauss]

What an absolutely lovely comment! You have tapped directly into the heart of why I wrote, and ultimately wanted to make this film. ❤️🙏

[@kristacielo5734]

As a Spiritualist, I think this was beautiful, wonderfully done and makes perfect sense to me.

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks for watching and for this comment, Krista! I so appreciate it when I hear how our film connects with someone on a deeper level. 🙂🙏

[@markeidt6404]

I was mesmerized through the whole video. Fantastic plot with great acting. Kudos to all involved.

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks so much for watching and for your kind words... means a lot to us! 😃👍

[@natureboytom]

I worked in the funeral industry for many yrs, mostly the embalming. This film was well done and what a great twist, I’ve been a fan of Omeleto For many yrs. 👍🚀🚀🚀Thank you!

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks for watching and for your kind words, Tom! 🙂👍 It's always fun to hear from someone who has worked in the funeral business. I've also been a huge fan of Omeleto for a long time. Some of the best short films I've ever seen I found right here. In fact, during postproduction of The Funeral Photographer, I would often think about how the welcoming, film-loving Omeleto community would dig in to the subtleties of our film. It's a real honor to be included on this channel! 🙏

[@alexcanyon843]

Did she have a "veil" over her mind (until the truth was later revealed) that kept her from recognizing her friends and loved ones at her funeral? Was the car, the camera, breath mints, etc. all other dimensional as well since no one seemed to see her but the attendant?

[@markhstrauss]

Great questions and “Yes!” to both. Whatever the mysterious Funeral Photographer process is, the person doesn’t recognize anybody at the funeral, and must get their photos (memories) before they realize they’re dead. Thanks so much for watching and asking your questions!

[@kimberlycrouch7228]

Think I need to rewatch that.... I have many questions

[@mktlateshow8704]

too many :0

[@manfredcaranci6234]

I did rewatch it, and still can't figure it out.

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks for watching and feel free to ask any questions! As the writer and producer, we crafted the film to be subtle like you're looking at a photograph.

[@anonymouslearner2454]

@@markhstrauss Still wondering : "you really missed your calling" What calling did she miss? Does it refer to when Charlie called out her name? Did they have to return at 11-30 when the service starts?

[@Prizzy999]

​@@anonymouslearner2454 No, her calling to be a photographer when she was alive. But the photos aren't real, they're just her memories of her beloved ones that she carried in the afterlife.

[@MrDalebenberger]

Thanks Mark for provoking us in a positive way.

[@muhammadbilalmirajdin3764]

is this the plot? a girl is hired for a funeral photography ... she does her job ... gets called by her name by a seemingly unknown attendant, she is shocked to see the deceased one (seems like her dead-self) and she seems out of place .... she looks the 'memories of the past' and then she hands over the job to someone else. is that what it was? (i have taken out all the subtleties on purpose to cut short my comment plus i'm not a great writer )

[@markhstrauss]

Yes and nice way to put it as the framework of the story. 😊👍🏻

[@pedrojuliancereceda8301]

Oh, my gosh! did not see that coming!!! Awesome!

[@WanderlustFilmsLLC]

Great short film! Well crafted, fascinating!

[@markhstrauss]

I really appreciate your thoughts and kind words! 😊🙏

[@Cartier_specialist]

I don't get it. I guess I'll watch it again but I think it's just beyond my grasp.

[@RawBogan]

Over my head too. It'd probably take a month for someone to explain it to me... Very well made short.

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks for watching and I completely understand. We crafted the film to narratively feel like a photograph, so it's intentionally subtle. We've found that a second viewing often helps reveal some of the subtle story beats.

[@catherinejustcatherine1778]

Rewatching can help many things be clearer

[@kellykaram5622]

Well done! This is an engaging short that makes one wonder what the hereafter is all about.

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks for watching, Kelly and for taking the time to share your kind words! ❤️🙏

[@jorgergonzalezvisualartist8925]

Interesting film. At first I was a bit taken aback by the use of a film camera since the person that was hiring the photographer asked for “a fly on the wall” which with the crank of the film advance you definitely don’t get. But unfortunately that is because I’m a wedding photographer 😊. But after getting past that I noticed of course that the photographer apparently was photographing her own funeral, which took me deeper into thought and came to the conclusion that it was similar in concept to the film It’s a wonderful life with Jimmy Steward in which he is shown what the life of others would be like without him. Of course that is not what happens in the short but it got me thinking of by her photographing does in attendance, showed those that care about her all the way to the end. Yet it was almost like passing the baton, Charlie “who seems to be dead” gives her an envelope that she will give to the next photographer (dead person) and it continues. That is what I gathered…

[@markhstrauss]

Well said, and I so appreciate the perspective of a photographer. Thanks for taking the time to watch the film and share your thoughts! 😊👍🏻

[@jorgergonzalezvisualartist8925]

@@markhstrauss Thank you for creating such an original, thought provoking work!

[@johnstucko2740]

Why no CC: enabled? Some things were hard to hear/understand.

[@SharonNolfi]

I agree. Needs CC enabled because of loud music drowning out soft conversation.

[@lucyladyandhusband]

Ditto.

[@eugenetswong]

Captions were added after your comment.

[@BigBoaby-sg1yo]

@john ! I never understood a bloody thing .

[@lovelife2day]

That was amazing. Great job.

[@markhstrauss]

Wow, thank you so much for saying that!😊👍🏻

[@mkinzel39]

Very nice! Great job!

[@JustFluffyQuiltingYarnCrafts]

Fantastic! TFS! ♥️

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks so much for watching! 😊👍🏻

[@JustFluffyQuiltingYarnCrafts]

@@markhstrauss ♥️

[@JollyOrfali]

So if you ever find yourself driving to a random funeral to be the photographer, you’re probably dead

[@markhstrauss]

Your comment made me smile and I was wondering... Words to "live " by or an "afterlife" hack? 😉😆 Thanks so much for watching!

[@Yoss2204]

This was great! Well done!

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks so much for watching and for your kind words! 😊👍🏻

[@Wind4142]

"Actually, you'r little early..." So deep and sad 😢

[@foolishideas]

A really interesting concept... and a beautiful execution.

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks so much! 😊👍

[@sandiamartin585]

Super cool, and unique, I LOVED it.

[@markhstrauss]

Super appreciate these kind words! 😊👍

[@vivianokwuagwu]

This was excellent. Bravo!

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks so much for watching, Vivian and I really appreciate your kind words! 🤎🙏

[@shintosasaki2318]

I really connected to this short. For post mortem reasons

[@markdanner4900]

Very very well played.

[@Verzin1234]

Beautiful film!

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks so much for watching and for taking the time to make such a nice comment! 😊🙏

[@user-bt2pp2vi1g]

Who were those two older men? Were they like the grim reapers making sure that the priest would be there to formally execute things and for them to ensure and usher the next one? And yes, did David die due to overdose?

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks for watching and good questions… The two older men were Julie’s favorite uncles. They essentially serve as a red herring as we (and Julie) think they are up to something nefarious when in fact they’re just waiting for the opera singer to show up. You are on the right track with how the husband dies. There are clues in the film as to how and why he died so quickly.

[@larryfreda5208]

I’ve never seen a paid photograph at a funeral.

[@markhstrauss]

Interestingly, after I started writing this, I did some research and discovered that there actual funeral photographers. Thanks for watching!

[@elvisduck4014]

@@markhstrauss Funeral photographers are popular in Germany. As we get older, families meet up less often and more likely at a funeral.

[@markhstrauss]

@@elvisduck4014I did not know that… I wonder if that trend will spread to other countries. thanks for watching!

[@katherinkeegan8601]

​@@markhstraussWhen I started the video, I thought to myself that she was going to go to her own funeral. The brother being the funeral director threw me, because I couldn't figure out who he was. I realized the young girl going to find her uncle signified who would die next. I didn't realize that it was Jules' husband. I think part of my confusion at identifying the brother and husband was the low volume of the speakers. Yes I realize hush tones were appropriate, but it made it hard to follow the story. But that was what you were going for wasn't it? Also her not recognizing anyone also confused me and had me thinking I wasn't correct about it being her funeral. Jules was far more composed welcoming her husband than I would have been. This was a very well made video.

[@markhstrauss]

@@katherinkeegan8601 Hi Katherine, great comments and I so appreciate your thoughts. Yeah, it was a tough balance with the audio trying to keep it whispery enough to be true to the funeral setting and feeling mysterious, while making it loud enough to pick up on the dialogue. I sometimes recommend watching the film, then watching it with subtitles, then watching it a third time which often creates the emotional experience. The creative choice to make the film feel like a photograph can work for us and against us. :) Part of the reason I wrote the film the way I did is because of how intelligent viewers are now. With so much quality storytelling out there, we have to work harder as creators to honor the agreement between storyteller and viewer. To that point, I assumed some viewers might correctly expect that she's at her own funeral, so I wanted to create layered twists including the final twist of the husband being the next photographer. Good point about Jules being composed. Tara knocked it out of the park playing this role! At the end, she struck a beautiful balance here because Jules knows that if she doesn't keep her composure, she won't be able to guide David to gather his memories; she must be The Attendant. It's also a melancholy ending because she will now be together again with her husband, but under heartbreaking circumstances. I didn't expect to write such a long response, but you inspired me! :)

[@demetrius235]

FIgured out she was dead when she was surprised the man knew to call her "Jules". Did NOT see the husband going next. My first thought watching this was: "Really? Film? She'd get through the pictures faster with a digital camera". 🤣

[@markhstrauss]

Darn ghosts and their resistance to embracing new technology! 🤣👍🏻 All kidding aside, audiences are so smart and intuitive nowadays, when I wrote this I was thinking, “Even if someone figures out that she’s in the casket, they likely won’t see the ultimate twist.”

[@Diya-ht2ue]

Amazing!

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks! :)

[@Diya-ht2ue]

​@@markhstrauss so you are the script writer of this beautiful short story? Well done! 😊 .. I think it gave me a little hope that may be I can meet my mother again.. may be everything happens this way.. may be! I don't know! I really loved it 😊

[@markhstrauss]

@@Diya-ht2ue I so appreciate your kind words about my writing and hope you'll be with your mother again. Thank you for this thoughtful comment.🤎🙏

[@Diya-ht2ue]

​@@markhstrauss 😊 🙏

[@bobg1685]

Nicely done.

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks, Bob! 😊👍🏻

[@aroundandround]

Mark, were the two older men that seemed “weird” to Jules next in line?

[@markhstrauss]

Hi, thanks so much for watching and for your question! Before I share my thoughts below (including spoilers), since I have had others ask the same thing... what makes you think they might be next? . . . . . ⚠CAUTION: SPOILERS AHEAD! ⚠ The way it was written, these two men essentially serve as the film's red herring: we are put in Julie’s perspective where we believe they are shifty and waiting for someone/something nefarious. Up until the truth is revealed, some people wonder if it would be a bomb or a gun in the briefcase, when in fact, it was just the singer's sheet music. They're nervousness is simply that they are worried because the singer is late. Ultimately, they are two people that Julie loved dearly as evidenced by one of them saying, “She made me promise“ to be the one to give her eulogy, and the way she reacts when she sees their photo toward the end of the film. When I wrote it, I envisioned the one who would give the eulogy as her favorite uncle and the other his husband. However, to your point, another insightful Omeleto viewer - @Halmussa - compared them passing their envelope (could be notes for the eulogy or the check for the singer) to the passing of the envelope to signify the next attendant (in this case, Julie). Something I never even connected... and I wrote it! 😆 As you mention, even though I didn't intend it my writing, this film is meant to be experienced with the subtlety of looking at a photograph. And since I believe I write to find the story and not tell the story, and you used the phrase "next in line," here's a possibility... The husband is the next photographer, which is the final twist of the film. After him, we see just before that final moment that the woman on the left grabs her chest as she will be the next photographer after him. To your point, on a deeper level of the film, maybe one of those two uncles (as evidenced by the passing of the paper) will be after that. 🤔 I just have to say that this is why the Omeleto community is so top notch! Creatively insightful... even to the point where I get to look at my own film through fresh eyes! Thank you for that!🤎🙏

[@aroundandround]

Thanks for the detailed cliff notes. I was wondering if they were next in line because I’d seen a comment by you saying there was an Easter egg to that effect, and they seemed the closest to her family among the attendees and dear to her, but it wasn’t obvious to me from anything in the movie itself that they were poised to be the next photographers.

[@yl0000]

The use of film is a nice detail.

[@markhstrauss]

Yeah, it just didn't feel right with a digital camera. Thanks so much for watching!

[@catherinejustcatherine1778]

Very well done, folks😀

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks, Catherine!😊🙏

[@catherinejustcatherine1778]

@@markhstrauss you are welcome

[@nataliewilliams9741]

I have to put my dog down today. I lost my entire family in 2020, not to C19, just old age. Lockdown was just another day while caring for two parents dying. For some reason, this hit hard.

[@markhstrauss]

That’s so heartbreaking, Natalie. 💔 I can’t imagine how overwhelmed you must be and hope our film, at least in some small way, helps you through your grief. ❤️🙏

[@TomoyoTatar]

The end though ):

[@Krystalisha]

Wow. Beautifully written and executed. And spoiler ... Ouch The husband must have killed himself right after she died

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks for the kind words, Krystal. And, sadly, you are correct. 😔 The end is meant to be melancholy because while we can appreciate that they are together again, the circumstances are heartbreaking. 💔🙏

[@thatdigoryguy]

A circle ⭕️ 🖤

[@sarahk8397]

What's the significance of the white pad that Charlie is holding at the end?

[@markhstrauss]

Great question... so it's the envelope of "cash" from the beginning of the film (who knows what's really in it). In the end, it's what I like to call the "talisman" which has the current funeral photographer transition to be the next attendant. Hope that makes sense!

[@thomasfnmitchell1988]

I paused when I got Pet Semetary vibes.

[@markhstrauss]

Yikes! I might pause it too if I were getting Pet Cemetary vibes. 😬😳 Much different story though.

[@GabrielaHernandez-mi5jm]

Awesome, I got so many questions

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks, Gabriella! As the writer of this short, feel free to ask any questions.

[@thefeatheredhag4279]

@@markhstrausswhy is there no CC? I have a very hard time hearing?

[@markhstrauss]

@@thefeatheredhag4279Hi! I did provide a captions file so hopefully that will get added soon.

[@lucyladyandhusband]

​@@markhstraussThank you Mr Strauss.

[@GabrielaHernandez-mi5jm]

@@markhstrauss So the way I understood this film, the funeral and all the photographer “job” is some sort of a transition to the after life with the guidance of someone who has already pass through it, so after Jules haves her experience, he guides someone else and so on, the photographs are a methaphor of memories itself and David at the end is “too early” as he committed suicide after his beloved girl passed away… This is the best shot film I’ve ever seen by the way…

[@FrankLowe1949]

Nice ❤❤🎉🎉

[@TurtleWhisperer8]

Someone help me with this one ❤

[@colossusofrhodes1282]

Omg what a gorgeous redhead 👩🏼‍🦰

[@manfredcaranci6234]

She reminds me of Alicia Witt.

[@stevenjones122]

These things get more and more vague

[@tobe-you-tube6612]

This is the exact opposite. All those faceS captured

[@KatWoodland]

Powerful

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks, Kat! 🤎🙏

[@KatWoodland]

so so powerful. subtle deep profound poetic pow pow powerful. thank you for creating a film that has stirred me deeply and has inspired me to be more of myself, before I am the funeral photographer.

[@markhstrauss]

This just gave me the chills and I truly got choked up. It's the kind of connection I had hoped might happen when someone experiences our film. Thank you so much... you made my day. 🤎

[@KatWoodland]

@@markhstrauss💙

[@bub777]

A ghost tasked with capturing memories of those that cared about her?

[@markhstrauss]

You're exactly right... thanks so much for watching!🙂👍

[@aarons7975]

This was a very different and interesting video here. Gives one a lot to digest, many things going on, subtle and definitely needs to be watched again to catch all the stuff that may have been missed the first time. I remember when my great grandmother died back in the 70's and grandma insisted on taking photos at the funeral. I was I think 9 or 10 at the time, and was thinking that was weird and gross. Why would you want a picture of someone dead and to be constantly reminded of that day, of what you lost? I always to this day, think that tradition is a bit odd, Id rather have photos of them alive and having fun, not everyone mourning. I really liked this video but have to be honest and say, I can't really put my finger on exactly why yet. It'll give me something to think about tonight as I fall asleep, (hopefully to wake up with an answer and not a picture !! )

[@markhstrauss]

Thanks for your comment and for the story about your grandma and great grandma. Your experience of enjoying the film while not completely understand it is pretty common. We crafted it to be subtle and to narratively feel like a photograph. Here's to you waking up with answers!

[@erikhuber8011]

A film camera!

[@olafshomkirtimukh9935]

_Nun c'ho kapito nu' katz!_

[@mfawls9624]

Where did she get film?

[@markhstrauss]

That's a fair question... since she's a ghost, I imagine it comes from the ghost of an long-closed Fotomat store. 😆

[@jxf144]

I don't get this one at all. Can someone please explain.

[@albertchehade9916]

she is casting a shadow...

[@thepalettewhispererasmr1227]

Whaaaaaat

[@NobodyImportant001]

I'm sorry, but who orders a funeral photographer!? Maybe I'm just poor - but I have never EVER heard of this, and I used to help with transport at the morgue!!! It's weird. Taking your own photos at a funeral OK. But hiring one like it's a wedding? Tf?

[@nicholasvanorton7840]

April 8, 2024 10:31 pm Monday 🎈

[@rilly1347]

Okay, for all those not getting it let's see if I can explain about what I think is going on. The photographers are spirits of the deceased and the (I do believe anyways) funeral directors are the spirits of loved ones that passed on before them. I can go into more details and answer questions to the best of my ability if you guys want me to.

[@thekidunest7425]

Yes please

[@rilly1347]

@@thekidunest7425 What would you like to know or have explained?

[@thekidunest7425]

@@rilly1347 everything I’m lost

[@markhstrauss]

Yep! As the writer and producer of this short, you are spot on with the cyclical nature of this process of gathering memories of loved ones to carry to the afterlife. In fact, there's an easter egg clue to who the next funeral photographer will be. Thanks for watching and for your thoughts!

[@crystalvera9560]

@@markhstrausscan u tell us where to find the clue, I think it’s her husband but where is the clue. Also, she took a picture of her brother at the funeral & u can see the photo at the end. I thought ghosts or spirits can’t be photographed.

[@revilo1340]

I'm really sorry, I did not understand the plotline

[@markhstrauss]

No reason to be sorry! The film is intentionally subtle to feel like it's a photograph and, honestly, most people don't connect with it on the first viewing. I very much appreciate you taking the time to watch and also comment.

[@revilo1340]

@@markhstrauss can you explain the story? in full? thanks. also it's really cool to see the makers in the actual video connecting with the audience. i am only 14 but i am hoping to get into the filmaking community soon

[@durasaxon5131]

Touching. Difficulty. How to assist people at the time of passage. _____

[@dinocrocetti2950]

Great . I love these . Very much “Twilight Zoneish”. So I’m still trying to figure out the two guys that stood out and they’re link to the story . Hints please? These could be a series on TV . Much better with a life and death lesson without all the political nonsense in today’s world. Thanks Do you have or are you making more ?

[@markhstrauss]

Hey Dino, love the twilight zone connection... that's quite a compliment. So the two guys are waiting for someone to show up and are visibly bothered that he's late. They serve as a red herring as if something bad is going to happen (manifested ultimately with the briefcase). Turns out, they were simply waiting for the opera singer. Love the thought about this being a series and have had others suggest the same. Different plots... what if the photographer finds out they're dead before getting all the photos? All kinds of options. I've written lots of other stuff that's gained some traction. Currently finishing a feature-length contained thriller script which I'm hoping will be our next project. Thanks so much for your thoughts!

[@dinocrocetti2950]

@@markhstrauss Thanks got it

[@jessicajohn1962]

Didn’t really get that never mind

[@micknordstrom2591]

That was strange, I do not get it!

[@snowdroid]

Return to sender...yikes.

[@fatlosschallnge8104]

1 like

[@qwertyuiopgarth]

I have no idea what was going on. Is she an amnesiac ghost magically photographing her own funeral? Is she hallucinating? Or what? No stars.

[@eugenetswong]

*S P O I L E R S & T R I V I A* * family name at the tail end of hearse; she didn't notice her last name? * visible puff of her breath in the car * "Do you think that she'll see Daddy?" [i.e.: photographer's brother?] +"You should keep this one." * money envelope coming out as she looks at her former husband is the clue? . . . + other clues discussed the comment section.

[@markhstrauss]

Hi Eugene! Appreciate the thoughts... * The name on the hearse is the owners of the 100-year-old funeral home here in SW Michigan. The Wagner family was so gracious throughout the entire project. * Yeah... I often thought of that puff of air as Julie's soul leaving her body. Or... it was just cold out when we shot the film. 🙂 * Yep, that was one of the clues that The Attendant is Julie's brother... nice catch! * The envelope (which we don't know what's actually in it) serves as the symbol of who's the next attendant to help the photographer capture as many memories as they can before they discover it's them in the casket. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@eugenetswong]

@@markhstrauss You're welcome. Thank you for making this. I really enjoy finding clues. Did I miss any clues? Have you made other films?

[@markhstrauss]

@@eugenetswong​​⁠While I haven’t made any other films yet, I do have some scripts currently in the pipeline. Most of the clues are contained within single lines of dialogue, and there is one Easter egg clue toward the end of the film as to who the next funeral photographer will be. I’ll be happy to share that with you if/when you’re ready (I don’t want to assume you’d like me to share it before you have a chance to discover it).

[@eugenetswong]

@@markhstrauss I thought that you explained that the white envelope was the clue to the next photographer. No? Yeah, I want to discover them first. This was your first film? Wow. Congratulations. That's impressive. You're an inspiration to us all.

[@markhstrauss]

@@eugenetswongGood question… the envelope is a talisman that passes the role of attendant on to the current photographer. What’s in it remains a mystery.🤔 Thematically, it represents what she thinks she wants at the beginning of the film (cash for the job), but ultimately represents the connection back to her husband (even under sad circumstances). Hope that makes sense. While I’ve had a lot of traction with other scripts, this is my first film.