Interview by Elliot V. Kotek
Videography by F.J.Productions
(from the 2010 Sundance Film Festival)

Movie: The Dry Land
Directed/Written by: Ryan Piers Williams
Starring: America Ferrera, Wilmer Valderrama, Ryan O’Nan, Jason Ritter, Melissa Leo

Director Ryan Piers Williams and actors Melissa Leo and Jason Ritter talk about their sense of responsibility in telling the stories in “The Dry Land.” Williams, who grew up in Texas, where his film takes place, discusses his commitment to authenticity in the filmmaking process and the years of research on veterans and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Leo, who plays the mother of Iraqi war vet James (Ryan O’Nan), describes what she calls the “magic” that Williams imparted on the cast and crew during the making of “The Dry Land” through his devotion and passion. Ritter explains preparing for his role as Michael, a childhood friend of James who looks out for his wife while James was abroad, by spending time in a family-operated slaughterhouse. Finally, Williams shares one of the more nerve-wracking parts of the process: showing the movie to military leaders and hearing feedback from the people who have lived through these stories.

RELATED VIDEO: Interview with “The Dry Land” stars America Ferrera, Wilmer Valderrama and Ryan O’Nan
Read our review of "The Dry Land"