“Faded, Not Yet Gone” shows Lucas Dabrowski’s Cinematic Slice of Rural Life
Lucas Dabrowski found a passion for film at an early age, finding an enjoyment for storytelling when he was just a child. Now, as an acclaimed director, he is celebrated for his poignant storytelling. Known for his outstanding human approach to commercial campaigns, such as the Breast Cancer PSA “Know More” which was shortlisted at the 2023 One Show Awards, the “Know Your Mechanic” Ford campaign that helped the company see outstanding sales growth, and SickKids’ “Because Someone Gave” campaign, which took home several Canadian Marketing Awards. However, he recently ventured into uncharted territory with the release of the film Faded, Not Yet Gone. This digital masterpiece serves as a testament to Dabrowski’s multifaceted talents, as he not only directed but also wrote and produced the film.
Exploring the elements of rural life, the film revolves around the challenges faced by a farmer named Cole and his father, Joseph. Dabrowski, who was raised in a rural community just outside of Toronto, brings a personal touch to the story. Growing up surrounded by the simplicity of farm life, he found inspiration in the dichotomy of the serene beauty of nature and the demanding realities of agriculture.
“I believe the story taps into that old adage of the desire to explore and see what else is out there in the world. The story has a subtle ‘fork in the road’ moment for the main character. I think a lot of us get introspective and think about different paths in life we can take. This film explores those ideas in a beautifully visual language,” said Dabrowski.
The film masterfully captures the intricate relationship between humanity, nature, and familial bonds. Cole, portrayed with depth by the lead actor, becomes a vessel through which viewers explore the profound questions of purpose and identity. The cinematography elegantly juxtaposes the serene landscapes with the harsh realities of farming, creating a visual experience that is both captivating and thought-provoking.
One of the defining moments in the film occurs during the climax when a family relic unveils Cole’s internal struggles. This touch of magic adds a layer of metaphorical depth to the narrative, transforming Faded, Not Yet Gone into more than just a story about farm life, and it becomes a reflection on the universal journey of self-discovery.
The film premiered on the “Beyond The Short” channel, receiving acclaim for its narrative depth and visual aesthetics. Notably, it clinched the Award of Special Merit at the Best Shorts Film competition. Dabrowski’s ability to transform a limited budget into a production of such high caliber underscores his skill and dedication to the craft. Faded, Not Yet Gone stands as a testament to Dabrowski’s versatility and creative prowess as a director, showcasing his ability to weave compelling narratives in diverse settings.
“At first this project was out of my comfort zone. I haven’t in a long time had to create a story from the ground up. I had no writing partner or agency creatives to answer to or rely on. Eventually this dynamic was incredibly freeing and allowed me to direct in a pure and unadulterated way – something I have not been used to in commercials. I also loved working with talented actors with whom we could discuss in the moment what their character was feeling or going through and refining the scene or performance with that in mind. It was an organic and collaborative way of working which was truly refreshing,” he said.
As Dabrowski continues to evolve as a filmmaker, one can only anticipate the next chapter in his cinematic odyssey — a journey that promises not only to captivate audiences but to leave an enduring legacy in the annals of filmmaking.
Photo 1: Director Lucas Dabrowski on set of “Faded, Not Yet Gone”
Photo 2: Director Lucas Dabrowski (middle) grabs a gimbal shot of actor Jacob Klick (right) at dusk on the farm
