Posted by Join host Olivia Lyle (@olivialyle1) for an exclusive conversation with lead actor, writer and producer Matty Wint and composer Carlos Garcia, the creative duo behind SwordPlay (USA), interview recorded by Kyle Reed (@thekylereed).
Directed by Noah Sutton and Nathan Paine, the film celebrated its World Premiere at the 7th Annual Independent Shorts Awards at Regal LA Live, Los Angeles, and was nominated for Best Action Short. SwordPlay stars Matty Wint, Jeffery Scott Gage, and Danny Sassenrath.
On SwordPlay — Rivalry, Humor, Fantasy
Two men engage in an epic medieval battle… until reality snaps back. Playful and self-aware, SwordPlay blends rivalry, humor, and fantasy into a quick-hit ode to imagination.
Wint summed up the spirit of the project: “It’s a playful and heartfelt story that blends fantasy, humor, and a bit of cinematic flair. It’s a tribute to imagination and the joy of storytelling.”
Tone & Takeaway: “Childhood Whimsy”
Asked what audiences should feel, Wint didn’t hesitate: “That childhood whimsy—the imagination that comes with being a kid. We need more of that in the world. We want adults to remember what they knew as kids.” That guiding idea shapes the film’s brisk pacing, visual gags, and the hard pivot from medieval grandeur to everyday reality.
Scoring the Adventure
SwordPlay marks Wint and Garcia’s first collaboration—and the musical brief was delightfully bold. “I told him I want Pirates of the Caribbean meets How to Train Your Dragon,” Wint laughed, “and he nailed it—then a little Pixar toward the end.”
Garcia leaned into big-hearted adventure: “From the start we talked vibe—childhood fantasy, sweeping adventure, and the specific setting. Some temp tracks helped frame the target, then it was about capturing that rush without overpowering the story.”
Texas-Made, Team-Driven
Though the scope feels larger than life, SwordPlay was crafted with a lean, passionate crew. “This film was a passion project, made with a small but dedicated team in Texas. We met, clicked quickly, and pulled a team together fast. Small unit, big heart,” Wint explained. That nimble approach let the filmmakers chase the film’s most important quality—pure, contagious fun.
Recognition at Independent Shorts Awards
Debuting in Los Angeles, SwordPlay drew cheers for its playful energy and cinematic polish—and earned a nomination for Best Action Short at the Independent Shorts Awards, spotlighting its swashbuckling spirit and crowd-pleasing craft.
Enjoy the interview below, along with the trailer for SwordPlay, for a brief glimpse into the film.
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