Burden of Proof was conceived as a senior capstone film for the University of Pittsburgh’s Film & Media Studies program, but its production and execution landed it firmly amongst the indie film scene of Pittsburgh, PA. With a 36-person crew, $4,500 budget, ~$1,500  of in-kind donations (including props, costumes, locations, and equipment), and a cast of established local actors and incredible newcomers, the film represents a milestone for 7to8 Production & Distribution and a hard-earned journey in punching above your weight.
 
Our 36-person crew– formed of friends, classmates, and professional contacts– boasts 33 members who are current college students or recent graduates. These previous collaborators were eager to dedicate their time and expertise, representing an achievement in networking, friendship, and on-set conduct that sits at the core of our philosophy. One of the significant goals of our production was to replicate the structure and environment of higher-budget film sets to help the crew build confidence and experience for the future. We were fortunate enough to incorporate below-the-line positions often absent from student film sets, such as a Production Manager, Production Coordinator, DIT, construction team, set dec team, and VFX team. Burden of Proof  wasn’t big just for show– every artist involved was an irreplaceable piece of the puzzle. Our incredible team worked tirelessly (but not thanklessly!) over three days of shooting and months of pre-production to prove that being young doesn’t mean dreaming small.

Other resources further established Burden of Proof as a new step for 7to8. The project was a recipient of a $4,000 Brackenridge Grant from the University of Pittsburgh’s David C. Frederick Honors College Program, an award typically distributed to STEM-related research. This selection demonstrates significant community interest and an excitement that has been building since May 2025. The Pittsburgh community doubled their impact when a weeks-long location scout led the Calvary United Methodist Church to open their doors for our crew. Having access to this 134-year old church on Pittsburgh’s North Shore took this film beyond apartments and sidewalks, and lent weight and excitement to our production. Our DP’s connections at The Camera Department– a premier rental house in Pittsburgh servicing numerous professional and independent productions– afforded us a Sony BURANO and Cooke lenses at a fraction of the price, shaping the film’s distinct visual style. Pittsburgh's abundance of humble, hardworking talent brought us a cast that blew the script off the page. Local veterans Curtis Caldwell and David Ogrodowski, steeped in professional and indie credits, brought an energy and danger to Grey and Father Damien. Jordyn Gilliard, a newcomer on the Pittsburgh scene, shaped Chiara with raw talent and singular determination. Their willingness and good humor was as essential to the film as anything behind the camera.

Burden of Proof was a bold new step for 7to8 and the entire filmmaking team, but it cleared a path we all hope to continue walking. Our incredible network of friends and artists, as well as our roots in the Pittsburgh community, made for a project that was more than just a student film. It’s our privilege to share it with you as we continue to make films that challenge our understanding of what’s possible.