Production Info
“The History of Spaceflight” was shot at the University of Southern California in late 2009. Post production on the film was completed in the Summer of 2010 and it served as Chris Caraballo’s thesis film at USC. Production lasted 9 days and 4 sets were built at USC. The crew consisted of mostly fellow classmates with the addition of students from other film schools in the area. Jose and Alina Caraballo (Chris’s Parents) came all the way out from Miami to help with production. Alina’s Cuban cuisine and Jose’s handyman skills were put to good use and the crew immediately took a liking to them.
About the Film
In early December of 1994, only two things mattered to anyone under 13 years old. Staying up late enough to watch TGIF, and finding out what you got for Christmas before anyone else. So when the Beasley children realize that their parents are leaving them home alone for the afternoon – the only thing separating them from immortality is the 13’6” it takes to reach the attic door.
Despite three failed attempts, a wounded sister, and 150 dollars’ worth of property damage – they muster the courage for one last endeavor as audacious as man’s quest to reach the moon. It’s one small step for the Beasleys, and one giant leap for children everywhere.
A Word from the Director
From the onset, I wanted to make my thesis film about family. I grew up with my entire family living within a stone’s throw of my house. My grandmother lived next door. My Aunt and Uncle lived behind us. I constantly attempted stunts like those which I portray in this film with my sister and cousins – and every character in this film has pieces of them in it. It’s what made writing The History of Spaceflight feel so natural.
Naturally, production on this film had to mimic that. I spent a great deal of time with the cast of the movie talking about what they did with their family. Finding ways to meld what I experienced growing up, with what they are experiencing now. What I learned from this experience was something that was more valuable than I of boys will always act like twins. And the oldest brother is always gonna think he’s too old for to play with the youngest. And that was very comforting. Knowing that this film would play well to people of all ages because they could all relate to it.
I also wanted the making of the movie to be a family affair as well. What felt like half of Miami came out to LA for production. My mom made every meal we served our crew. My father photographed every aspect of production. My great friend served as the “scripty” on the film. By day ten of production, the crew felt like family – which I think was instrumental to the film’s success. There is nothing better than having your actors cry on the “martini shot” because they don’t want it to be over – I truly cherished that.
I learned enough at USC to know that the chances of someone making a feature off a thesis and becoming an instant director aren’t exactly great. So knowing that my family would be there for this production was important. It meant they’d see me doing what I love. I could not have asked for more.