Wrapping Up the Holidays and Soaring into New Beginnings: A Sneak Peek into Our Next Big Adventure (Copy)

Directing the naughty list—filmmaker vibes activated!I was in charge of the naughty list this year

Hey everyone!

I hope your holiday season was filled with joy, cozy moments, and maybe even a few too many cookies. While you were perfecting the art of sipping hot cocoa without burning your tongue, I was busy wading waist-deep in the wonderful—and occasionally treacherous—world of Mocha masks. I’ve been up to my neck in Mocha masks and color correction this winter, learning that even the best of us have our lighting fails. But trust me—every misstep is just a setup for an epic comeback."Yes, I learned the hard way that “It’ll look cool in a moody, indie way” quickly translates to “We’ll fix it in post,” and trust me, even the best editors wince at that one!

Robyn's festive layover: A North Pole flight attendant moment

Holiday Highs (and Post-Production Fails)

This past winter was a mixed bag. On the bright side, I landed an acting gig and even got a callback—talk about starting the new year with a win! On the documentary front, Golden Wings had a fantastic run at NewsFest in November, a true high point in our journey. But, oh, those lighting choices during my mom’s interviews! It turns out that relying on a single lamp and some fairy lights isn't quite the cinematic magic I envisioned. Cue the Mocha masks and Beauty Box rescues.

Lulu, the Golden Wings mascot, decked out for the holidays

The Festival Rollercoaster

Let’s be real: the festival circuit can feel like a rollercoaster. While I celebrated the wins, I also faced a few rejections—from Austin to San Francisco, Oregon, and even the Toronto Queer Film Festival. It stings, no doubt, but each “no” only fuels my determination to keep pushing and polishing every frame until it sparkles (yes, even that scene with questionable lighting).

The Golden Wings documentary logo with a wintry theme

Big News on the Horizon

Well, I’m keeping this one under wraps for now, but let’s just say something exciting is coming our way in March. (I promise you, it’s a game changer—but mum’s the word!) For now, consider this your exclusive, hush-hush sneak peek. Stay tuned, because the coming months might just take us to unexpected, high-flying heights.

With no new festival selections we’ve been snowed in this winter!

Before & After: Lighting to the Rescue

Take a look at this transformation! The original side lighting made it look like Robyn just got off a 14-hour flight from Tokyo. Now, thanks to some Mocha masks magic, she looks 20 years younger—no filters, just proper lighting doing its job. And hey, it's not cheating—this is simply what proper lighting would have naturally achieved. Sometimes, all it takes is the right touch in post to reveal the real beauty behind the lens!

Pre and Post Boris FX Mocha Mosk

Join the Conversation!
Your thoughts and suggestions are what make this journey extra special. I’d love to hear how you’d spice up our creative process or any ideas that help us all grow together. Click below to share your feedback and be part of the Golden Wings crew!

Dont forget to check out our sister blog where I explore my personal journey as a first time director

Heres a link to last blog post about my Grandfather’s Magical Jumbo Jet


https://bit.ly/indiedocjourney

Golden Wings: An Award-Winning Documentary on Family Legacy and Aviation

Robyn Stewart (the subjecy of Golden Wings) with her son, Caleb out the Lammle Monica Movie Theater during their screening at The Newsfest.

Golden Wings: 50 Year Flight Path is an award-winning documentary

It explores family legacy, resilience, and aviation history. After a recent screening at Newsfest, where the film won Best Trailer, Most Inspirational, and Most Outstanding, Golden Wings continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. This is a story about dedication and legacy, seen through the lens of one family’s journey.

Caleb and Robyn at the Silicon Beach Film Festival where Golden Wings the documentary first screened the rough cut version at the historic Chinese Theater in Hollywood.

About the Film

Golden Wings follows the story of Robyn Stewart, a flight attendant who dedicated fifty years of her life to aviation. The documentary explores not only her career but the resilience and family legacy she carries. Through her story, we glimpse the changing landscape of the airline industry and the sacrifices made by those who serve.

Robyn Stewart in a still from Golden Wings

Audience Reaction & Festival Reception

At Newsfest, audiences connected deeply with Golden Wings. A woman around Robyn’s age shared how much the story meant to her as a mother, while a younger viewer admitted he’d never found aviation history interesting until he watched the film. These reactions highlight the film’s broad appeal, reaching viewers across generations.

This is what generative ai thinks our audience looks like. Does that boy not have a shirt on under that blazer? Questionacble 

the Challenges of an Earlier Era

One of the notable scenes includes clips from the “Fly Me” airline commercials of the 1970s, which showcase the sexism flight attendants faced. Though meant as a serious reflection, these ads also bring out a mix of laughter and discomfort from audiences today, highlighting how much societal views have changed.

Unsettling ads like this were what FA’s had to contend with

Honoring Bette Nash’s Legacy

The documentary also pays tribute to Bette Nash, a senior flight attendant who continued to fly well into her eighties while caring for her son with special needs. Bette’s memorial appears at the end of the film, after a heartfelt letter from Robyn’s son, allowing audiences a moment of reflection on the dedication and resilience of those in aviation.

Bette Nash is mentioned by Robyn as a role model in the film

Awards and Accolades

Golden Wings: 50 Year Flight Path has already gained recognition in the festival circuit, sweeping all nominated categories at Newsfest. The film took home Best Trailer, Most Inspirational, and Most Outstanding awards, underscoring its emotional impact and storytelling strength.

All that glitters is gold. Only shooting stars break the mold - Smash Mouth

Now Boarding

Join us on the journey of Golden Wings as we continue to share this story with audiences worldwide. Sign up for updates on future screenings and release information, and stay connected as we honor the legacy of those who dedicate their lives to the skies.