Writer, director, and actor Artie Brennan has officially taken home a New York EMMY® Award for his short film *The Chat*, a deeply personal dramedy that transforms a real-life experience into an emotionally resonant cinematic moment. Inspired by Brennan’s own conversations with his wife following her breast cancer diagnosis, The Chat is a heartfelt exploration of love, humor, and vulnerability in the face of fear.
This award positions The Chat in a unique space: a bridge between independent short cinema and mainstream recognition. Brennan, whose credits span House of Cards, Blue Bloods, and Off-Broadway stars alongside Emmy Harrington (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Francis Ferguson, High Maintenance), bringing chemistry and authenticity to every frame. Shot in New York City using anamorphic lenses to highlight the distance the character of Kayla is feeling with the world, the film’s pink palette serves as a metaphor for hope using the symbolic hue of breast cancer awareness. Brennan’s creative team includes Jeff Enkler (Cinematography) and Timmy Brennan (G&E).
“With my wife’s blessing, I decided to make the film in hopes that others who have to have The Chat will find it comforting knowing they are not alone” said Brennan
“The Chat is a very real conversation, and the acting is great,” said Matt Grady of Factory25.
“A funny and heartfelt take on sensitive subject matter”- Vimeo Staff
The Chat premiered at Dances With Films New York (Regal Union Square), aired on Manhattan Neighborhood Network, and is streaming online at Film Shortage.This win marks a milestone in Brennan’s filmmaking career, following festival acclaim for Daytrip Massacre (Best Horror Comedy – Hollyshorts Comedy FF) and Snuffalafaghost: Hip Hop’s First Stylist (Audience Choice Award – Hip Hop Film Festival).
ONE-SHEET SUMMARY
Title: The Chat
Genre: Short / Dramedy
Runtime: 5.5 minutes
Filming Location: New York City
Aspect Ratio: Scope (2.39)
Sound: Stereo
Director/Writer/Producer: Artie Brennan
Cast: Emmy Harrington, Artie Brennan
Cinematographer: Jeff Enkler
Production Design: Kristen Brennan
Grip & Electric: Timmy Brennan
Awards: Winner 68th Annual New York EMMY™ Award
Premiere: Dances With Films New York (Regal Union Square)
Online Release: Film Shortage
Logline: A couple must have the most difficult conversation of their lives after the wife is
diagnosed with breast cancer.
