By: Marisa Ross

At the 2024 Big Apple Film Festival (BAFF), Andrew Boszhardt showcased his latest work, Breed of Greed, a dark and riveting thriller that explores ambition and betrayal. As a writer, producer, and actor, Boszhardt played a pivotal role in bringing this high-concept story to life, seamlessly balancing his creative and logistical responsibilities. With a star-studded cast, a compelling narrative, and Boszhardt’s unique triple perspective, Breed of Greed captivated audiences and solidified his reputation as a multifaceted force in independent cinema.

A Visionary at Work: Writing, Producing, and Acting

For most, excelling in one creative role would be an achievement. For Andrew Boszhardt, the challenge lies in excelling across three—writing, producing, and acting. “Wearing these three hats allows me to see the story from multiple angles,” Boszhardt explained.“As a writer, I’m crafting the narrative; as a producer, I’m thinking about how to bring it to life; and as an actor, I’m living the character’s truth. Each role complements the others and shapes the final product. Of course, I had…and have…two incredible creative partners, Ralph Hemecker and Otto Eckstein (who are both credited writers and producers on the project. Hemecker also directed). This film would not have been possible without them.”

Breed of Greed revolves around the Wendolyn family, a pharmaceutical dynasty torn apart by the mysterious death of its patriarch. As the family grapples with greed and betrayal, an ancient curse threatens their survival. The film captures the darkness of human ambition while delivering a supernatural twist that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.

The Freedom of Independent Cinema

Breed of Greed’s New York premiere at BAFF underscored the importance of independent cinema in fostering bold and innovative storytelling. Festivals like BAFF provide a platform for filmmakers to explore complex narratives and take creative risks, free from the constraints often imposed by larger studios.

“Independent films allow you to tell stories that might not fit into the traditional Hollywood mold,” Boszhardt shared. “There’s a rawness and authenticity to indie filmmaking that I find incredibly fulfilling. I think there’s a lot more room for the filmmaker to foster and display their own, unique creative voice.” 

For Boszhardt, the Big Apple Film Festival also holds personal significance. A proud New Yorker, he sees the city as an endless source of inspiration. Its energy, diversity, and unrelenting pace influence his work as a writer, producer, and actor. BAFF’s mission to uplift local filmmakers aligns perfectly with Boszhardt’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of creative voices.

The Importance of Training and Consistency

Boszhardt is quick to praise and credit his extensive training. “I trained in a Meisner conservatory for two years, but about fifteen months ago discovered The Method (as developed and taught by Lee Strasberg). Since then, I’ve been all in on Strasberg. When we shot Breed of Greed…I had not started studying Strasberg yet and while I’m proud of my performance, I do think it would have reached a whole other level of depth had I employed Strasberg’s technique. I used The Method for Resurrection this past fall and was able to reach a new stratosphere of emotion, intensity, and ease. I would not have been able to do what I did in that play without Lee Strasberg’s work. I am a complete convert.”

An early riser, Boszhardt shared that he’s usually up around 6 every morning and at his writing desk shortly after waking up. “Consistency is everything. I approach acting and writing with an athlete’s mentality…I do it every day.” 

And given how much Boszhardt has managed to pull off in a relatively short amount of time (he left his job in tech only six years ago)…one can clearly see the results of hard work, discipline, and passion. 

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Andrew Boszhardt?

As Breed of Greed garners acclaim on the festival circuit, Boszhardt is already looking to the future. His upcoming projects include a mix of writing, producing, and acting roles, each pushing the boundaries of genre and storytelling. “Every project is an opportunity to grow,” Boszhardt said. “Whether it’s refining a script, navigating the complexities of production, or diving into a character, I’m always learning something new.”

A Thrilling Journey

Andrew Boszhardt’s journey as a writer-producer-actor is a testament to his passion for storytelling and his dedication to his craft. With Breed of Greed, he has not only delivered a thrilling cinematic experience but also demonstrated the power of independent cinema to tackle meaningful themes with creativity and depth.

As the applause rang out at the Big Apple Film Festival, one thing was clear: Boszhardt’s star is on the rise, and his unique ability to excel across writing, producing, and acting promises even greater stories ahead.

Published by Iris S.