‘A Riveting Tale of Resilience and Bonds’
“Sara Friedman has launched herself into the cinematic cosmos with her debut directorial feature, aptly named HEIGHTENED. Adhering to storytelling from multiple angles – screenwriter, director, and star – Friedman infuses a distinctive vitality into the narrative.”
‘Heightened (2023)… 8.5 STARS’
Friedman is to thank for bringing this character to life (in more ways than one). From the top she wrote a character that, on paper, should surely appeal to the masses–but that’s only a small portion of the battle. She then physically brings Nora to life and has the wherewithal to analyze her performance from the director’s chair in order to create a complete character. This character is brilliant, she’s the heart and soul of Heightened–and she’s so important to viewers.
‘Heightened, Bibi, Katie’s Mom (LA’s Dances with Films festival 2023)’
“This film is cognitive behavioral therapy for the soul and we loved every minute. We talked with Sara about themes that mean a lot to us - anxiety, therapy, and finding love.”
‘EXCLUSIVE HEIGHTENED TRAILER PREVIEWS OCD AND SOCIAL ANXIETY-RIDDLED COMEDY’
“ComingSoon is excited to debut the Heightened trailer for the comedy movie that deals with obsessive-compulsive disorder and social anxiety. It is written and directed by Sara Friedman, who also stars in the movie alongside Dave Register, Mike Mitchell, Xander Berkeley, and Sarah Clarke. It will make its world premiere during the 26th annual Dances With Films festival at TCL Chinese 6 Theatres on Friday, June 23.”
‘Conversations with Sara Friedman’
“I am grateful that I have remained stubborn in my belief that I don’t need to limit myself. I find as much fulfillment in acting as I do in directing, and an immense sense of pride when I produce and bear witness to a piece of art from the ground up.”
‘MAINER RETURNS HOME TO MAKE FILM SET IN A STATE PARK’
“With “Heightened” preparing for what Friedman calls “15 rapid days” of shooting, she and Register have assembled an impressive roster of partners. There’s Cut 4 Productions’ John Hermann and indie stalwart Tilted Windmill Productions (led by part-time Mainer Matt Ratner), whose combined commitment to indie filmmaking has brought forth compelling projects starring the likes of William Jackson Harper, Ben Schwartz, Aya Cash, Hannibal Buress, Sarah Silverman and Tig Notaro.”
‘Meet Sara Friedman: Actor, Director, & Writer’
“I realized if I wanted to act, I needed to create something to act in. This led to a burgeoning love of writing and directing, which are now integral parts of my career. The power of creating my own opportunities is a major lesson I have learned, and something about myself that I am proud of.”