By: James Smith
Actor and filmmaker Chris Highlands created something special with his latest short film, “I’ll Be There.” This heartfelt, nine-minute exploration of fatherhood is quietly making waves and touching hearts around the globe. As if that weren’t enough, Highlands also starred in A24’s highly acclaimed film “Opus,” which premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival this month.
“I’ll Be There” unfolds entirely within the cozy confines of a baby’s crib. Highlands plays a new father holding his infant daughter, pouring out a raw, emotional monologue. It’s a tender and profoundly unsettling performance that makes you want to call your dad—or hug your kids—a little tighter.
The story is deceptively simple: a man confronting the looming loss of his father while trying to show up for his child. But the execution is anything but simple. Highlands takes us on an emotional journey through joy, fear, and everything in between in just a few minutes. His vulnerability—his cracking voice—makes every word hit home.
What sets “I’ll Be There” apart is its honesty. Highlands doesn’t sugarcoat the struggles of parenthood. He dives into the moments of self-doubt and the constant fear of messing things up, but he also highlights the magic of connection. One of the film’s standout lines? “You’re the sweetest thing that I’ve ever met.”
The technical side of the film is just as compelling. Preston Tyler Ward’s cinematography transforms the crib into an entire universe, wrapping viewers in the protective cocoon of a parent’s love. Alexandre Côté’s score is subtle yet stirring, underscoring the emotions without overshadowing Highlands’ performance.
The film is already making waves, winning a Programmer’s Prize for Exceptional Filmmaking at Film Invasion LA in 2024. But Highlands isn’t stopping there. He’s working to expand the film’s reach, hoping it connects with audiences far beyond the festival circuit.
It’s not just audiences who are taking notice. Highlands’ star is clearly on the rise, and his recent role in “Opus” is proof. Directed by Mark Anthony Green, the buzzworthy A24 film featured an ensemble cast that included Ayo Edebiri, John Malkovich, and Murray Bartlett. Premiering in Sundance’s Midnight section last January 27, 2025, “Opus” has already generated excitement ahead of its theatrical release on March 14, 2025.
Watch Opus | Official Trailer: https://youtu.be/5owo-kbx8X0
For Highlands, this was a chance to showcase his range—balancing his heartfelt storytelling in I’ll Be There with a high-profile horror film’s bold, dramatic canvas. Yet even as his career takes off, he remains grounded in his passion for authentic, deeply personal narratives.
At its core, “I’ll Be There” reminds us of what great art can do: connect us to our shared humanity. It’s a quiet exploration of life’s most profound moments—the love, the fear, the vulnerability—and it resonates in a way that stays with you long after the credits roll.
So, take nine minutes out of your day to watch “I’ll Be There.” Let yourself be moved and maybe even changed a little. And who knows? You might agree with Highlands’ character when he says, “Life’s too short to hold him in.” Whether he’s talking about emotions or… well, you’ll just have to watch to find out.
Follow Chris Highlands: https://www.instagram.com/chrishighlands_
Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/-G8ZcBbRPIw
Published by Stephanie M.
