REMATCH

• About
• Cast & Crew
• Making of
• Music
• Trailer
• Reviews
• Contact

What

Rematch is a micro-budget short film about a stubborn man who denies his wayward brother's attempt to reconnect, escalating their couples date into a drunken ping pong match that's about more than it seems. Watch the trailer >

Who & Why

Frank & Nick Romano are DIY filmmakers from Chicago with a passion for cinema. J.S. Cooper's script (set at a single location over one night) was not just the perfect lockdown project — it also explores themes of familial tension, personality conflict, and acceptance. Learn more about the Cast & Crew >

Where & When

Rematch was shot in Co-Director Frank Romano's home in Downers Grove, IL — a suburb of Chicago. Principle photography was four full days in March of 2021. A half-day pickup scene was shot later that year. The film was finished in February 2023. See behind the scenes footage >

How to watch

Rematch is currently competing in the festival circuit and is prohibited from public exhibition. Rematch will be submitted to various streaming platforms in late 2023. You can request a private link by reaching out to Directors Frank & Nick Romano directly. Reach out to us today >

Glenn Fields as "Cal"

Hailing from Tulsa, OK, Glenn is an actor with a thoughtful approach to his craft. He chips away at his roles with curiosity and introspection, using the Stanislavsky method to fully embody his characters. A true team player and a great reactor, Glenn is always giving, even when the camera’s pointed at his co-stars. Glenn is a multi-talented performer, possessing a knack for impressions in addition to stage combat proficiency. Glenn’s calm and collected demeanor makes him an asset in the high-stress environment of a film set.

Dan Luke as "Brian"

A Chicago native now making waves in Los Angeles as a dedicated and versatile actor, writer, and Internet personality. Dan is already catching eyes for his role in the upcoming film "Aces in the Wild" (2023). With a unique style rooted in his improv background, Dan readily approaches every scene with creativity and courage, unafraid to explore every angle of a performance. Funny and gregarious, Dan brings warmth and humor to any set. Look out for more of Dan in the future.

Erin Noelle Watt as "Leah"

A Chicago-based SAG-AFTRA actor, singer, business owner, and music teacher. Notable credits include the award-winning short film “8:46” on Netflix, the award-winning web-series “The Professionals” starring Steve Burns, and several commercials. An actress of substantial range with both the skill for precision and the zeal to explore. Erin's sense of timing is unmatched. Focused, dedicated, and hardworking, Erin brings her best to every project. Learn more about Erin or contact her for projects at erinnoellewatt.com

Lindsay Chatham as "Ash"

A talented actress who balances her career as a Chicago real estate broker with her passion for performing arts. Lindsay has made a notable mark as an improv performer at some of Chicago's most respected comedy venues. On screen, Lindsay can be seen in nearly a dozen episodes of "Sventoonie" (2022-), where she skillfully portrays a range of characters. She can deliver moments of humor and authenticity with equal ease. Lindsay's sense of humor and professionalism make her a cherished presence on any set.

The Making of Rematch

Raw behind-the-scenes footage shot by Rematch Editor Cassie Stockigt over two days of the four day shoot.

Outtake Reel

Compilation of outtakes and bloopers cut together by Rematch Editor Cassie Stockigt. Expletive language has been censored.

Set Photos by Cassie Stockigt

"I love movie music."As Jim will tell you, I make the movie to hear the score. In a time when many filmmakers lean in the direction of a low-key, atmospheric, generally restrained approach to film scoring, I clutch tightly to my love of big, bold, brassy, operatic, and identifiable original soundtracks. Music just might be the most powerful tool for establishing a film's unique identity. And despite what anyone tells you, an original score has at least about a third of the film's weight on its shoulders, just behind script and cast."When Jim saw our near-final cut of Rematch — the first time he had been exposed to it — he guessed it needed a light touch: maybe five or so minutes of overall music peppered throughout the twenty-minute runtime. Like any good collaborator, I told him he wasn't getting off that easy."What ensued was a richly creative process — as is always the case working with Jim. In the end he composed nearly wall-to-wall music for Rematch, culminating in three beautiful motifs that ratchet us tight, steep us in old wounds, before finally making us long for healing. With few resources at his disposal, Jim built a soundscape from the ground up using minimal instruments and a cornucopia of household items. We jokingly referred to the score as an "orchestra of the home" and an "anxiety opera"."Jim posted the score online for free, and I encourage you to listen to it divorced from our undeserving picture. Even as a standalone listening experience it totally works. And it even includes extended material cut from the film, because Jim's score is too good to be left on the cutting room floor. In truth, it's too good for our film, but until Jim figures that out I get to continue working with him. So, let's keep that between us. Enjoy."

— Frank Romano, Co-Director of Rematch

"Call me inspired. I'll remember it for a long time to come."

"The film was wonderfully shot and there was this overwhelming sense of familiarity"

"The music and editing was spectacular, really pulls it all together."

"All four [performances] were exceptionally good!"

"It was fantastic! Nearly rung a tear out of me at the end!"

"[A] snapshot of convincing and realistic human relationships."

"Pat yourselves on the back for this one. Very good."