Current SFFILM FilmHouse Resident. In pre-production on his third short film. Writing my debut feature.

Octavian Kelly is a writer and director whose work centers on stories driven by strong power dynamics, heightened moral dilemmas, and masculine fragility. His debut short film, The Willow, was shot on 16mm and explores a young couple deciding whether or not to carve their names into a tree — a simple act that becomes a metaphor for growing up, trust, and autonomy within a romantic relationship.

The Willow was an official selection at the Bridges International Film Festival and the Local Sightings Film Festival, and received a nomination for Best Original Score at Indie Shorts Fest. It was filmed in rural Washington during the peak of summer heat — a production defined by limited resources and an enduring love for analog filmmaking.

Octavian’s work often explores the weight of small choices and the emotional undercurrents that live just beneath the surface of everyday life. He is currently developing new projects for both short and long form.

You can watch The Willow here, and follow his work on Instagram and read his thoughts on the latest movies on Letterboxd.

Email: octaviankelly@hotmail.com

Phone: 206-883-3966