The conversation explored the origins of the film, the realities of independent filmmaking, and the perseverance it took to complete a deeply personal project shaped by both creative ambition and unexpected tragedy.
Moore explained that the concept for Where Silence Lies was born during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Wanting to create a contained story with a small cast due to production limitations, he developed the idea of trapping a woman inside a police interrogation room for the duration of the film. The story unfolds almost entirely through conversations between detectives, a police captain nearing retirement, and the woman at the center of the mystery.
Rather than relying on action-heavy storytelling, the film focuses on tension, shifting perspectives, and uncertainty. Moore described the project as a constant battle between truth and deception, where every character has their own motives and interpretations of events. The film’s title reflects that layered uncertainty, challenging audiences to question what is being said — and what remains unsaid.
The independent thriller has already seen screenings in multiple locations, including a successful run in Yakima, Washington, where strong audience turnout led to an extended theatrical engagement. Moore said the response has been encouraging, especially considering the challenges independent filmmakers face when trying to secure theater placements and market projects without the backing of major studios.
During the interview, Moore opened up about the realities of independent filmmaking, describing the work as equal parts passion and problem-solving. While many aspiring filmmakers focus on the excitement of creating movies, he explained that much of the job involves troubleshooting production issues, managing limited budgets, and constantly adapting to obstacles.
One of the most emotional moments of the conversation centered on Moore’s mentor, legendary editor Edgar Burcksen. Burcksen, known for his work with George Lucas and his contributions to the development of modern editing systems, served as Moore’s mentor throughout film school and worked as the editor on Where Silence Lies.
Moore revealed that Burcksen passed away unexpectedly in 2024 before the film was fully completed. Following his death, much of the project’s editing work was lost due to complications involving rented equipment and inaccessible files. Determined to preserve his mentor’s final work, Moore painstakingly reconstructed the film using low-resolution exports and raw footage, spending months rebuilding scenes to match Burcksen’s original vision.
The experience became one of the defining challenges of the production and reinforced the collaborative nature of filmmaking. Moore reflected on how every member of a film crew contributes a crucial piece to the final product, making the loss of even one component incredibly difficult to overcome.
The discussion also touched on the changing landscape of independent cinema. Moore spoke about how accessible filmmaking has become over the past decade, with modern technology allowing more creators to produce films outside the traditional Hollywood system. He noted that while massive studio blockbusters continue to dominate theaters, there is growing space for independent productions to find audiences through streaming platforms, grassroots marketing, and community-driven support.
Drawing inspiration from filmmakers who built careers with limited resources, Moore encouraged aspiring creators to simply begin making films rather than waiting for perfect conditions or major financial backing. He emphasized that persistence and creativity matter more than expensive equipment or large-scale production budgets.
Watts connected Moore’s philosophy to the growing number of independent creators finding success online, particularly younger filmmakers using digital platforms to build audiences and distribute projects independently. The conversation highlighted how the internet has opened new opportunities for storytellers who may not have traditional industry connections.
As the interview wrapped up, Moore shared his hopes for audiences attending Where Silence Lies. More than anything, he wants viewers to leave the theater thinking deeply about the story and questioning their own assumptions about truth, perception, and human interaction.
For Moore, the goal is not simply entertainment but creating a film experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
Where Silence Lies will screen on May 13 and 14 at 7:30 pm at the Dixon Historic Theatre. More information about Moore’s work can be found through Moore Digital Studios, mooredigitalstudios.com.
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