I Am Not a Hipster 2013

Brook is an emerging musician making waves in the San Diego indie music scene. Known for his deeply emotional and self-recorded songs combined with captivating live performances, he seems to have it all. However, beneath this surface lies a bitterness that alienates him from those who care about him. His best friend, Clark, a person who tirelessly champions his work, tries to propel Brook’s music into the spotlight. Despite these efforts, Brook often mocks Clark’s artistic sensibilities and dismisses his support.

As he navigates his professional life, Brook finds his personal relationships fraying at the seams. He avoids interactions with his ex-girlfriend, finds himself at odds with local artists, and frequently erupts in anger over trivial matters. What lies beneath this aggressive facade is an unaddressed grief stemming from the recent death of his mother—a loss he adamantly refuses to face.

The arrival of Brook’s three sisters and father brings a pivotal change; they have come to spread their mother’s ashes at sea. While they hope to reconnect as a family, Brook only pushes them further away. His interactions with his sisters are marked by emotional distance, and he steadfastly refuses to acknowledge his father’s presence until the emotional tension reaches a boiling point. Gradually, as conflicts escalate within the family, Brook is compelled to wrestle with his grief and confront the root causes of his self-destructive tendencies.

Caught in a struggle between his artistic pursuits and his emotional turmoil, Brook’s journey takes a crucial turn as he finally comes to terms with the consequences of his behavior on those who genuinely care for him. Faced with a profound choice, he must decide whether to continue his spiral into isolation or take a painful but necessary step towards reconnecting with his family and friends.