Filming recently wrapped on the independent feature film The Floaters, and the University of Arizona School of Theatre, Film & Television (TFTV) had a special connection to the project. Freshly graduated Kaila Hines (BA Film & Television ’23) was hired as First Team PA on the film, a Jewish summer camp comedy starring Jackie Tohn (GLOW), Sarah Podemski (Reservation Dogs), Seth Green (Family Guy) and wrestler and actor Maxwell Jacob Friedman (The Iron Claw) among others.
The Floaters is produced by Becky Korman, Lily Korman and Shai Korman alongside Andra Gordon. Becky and Shai Korman first met Kaila in May 2023, when they interviewed Film & Television seniors and faculty about I Dream in Widescreen for their award-winning Friday Night Movie podcast. Kaila spoke about her experience as a producer of several senior thesis short films including The Rematch by Myles Gordon, Deserted by Ryan Ramsey, and Dear Ivy by Sean-David Ta. Becky and Shai first interacted with TFTV students and alumni a few months earlier at SXSW when they hosted Movie Night at the Wonder House, an evening of short films from current and past TFTV filmmakers.
“At both SXSW and I Dream in Widescreen, TFTV students thoroughly impressed us with their creativity and work ethic,” said Shai Korman. “It was a privilege to welcome an alum like Kaila Hines onto our team for the production of The Floaters. Kaila not only met but exceeded our high expectations, bringing a boundless positive attitude and spirit to every day on set. Her exceptional contributions to our production family are a testament to TFTV’s high caliber program.”
“I’m thankful to Shai, Becky, and Lily for including me in the production of their heart-warming and hilarious film,” said Kaila Hines. “The experience was so enlightening. I had the opportunity to work closely with the actors and crew while sharpening my multi-tasking skills during long days on set! I met a ton of incredible, talented people and formed lifelong friendships during the production. Filming in New York took place just a few months after my graduation from the University of Arizona, and I felt well prepared for my role. In addition to the invaluable work experience, I had an awesome time exploring the wonders of upstate New York, seeing some adorable bears, and creating memories.”
Now represented by Williams Talent Management, Hines is preparing her short film, A Barber’s Paradise. The film, about a traveling barber with entrepreneurial aspirations, is set to film in Los Angeles in the spring.
Read More about The Floaters in Deadline