Go behind the scenes of the MPI Original short film Grind. This new video offers a closer look at how the film came together and sheds light on MPI’s Rising Filmmaker Program, which supports emerging directors and screenwriters through workshops, mentorship, and real-world production experience.

Set in East Los Angeles, Grind stars Giovanni Cristoff as John, a rising sneaker designer who lands a chance to showcase his work at his idol’s pop-up shop—only to risk it all when his best friend and business partner makes a dangerous promise to a local gang.

Originally developed in the 2022 MPI Short Film Lab by writer-director Mark Apicella, Grind was acquired in 2024 for co-production as an MPI Original through the MPI Production Lab. 

The film will have its Midwest premiere on Saturday, July 26, at 1:00 p.m. in Indianapolis, Indiana, as an official selection of the Oscar–qualifying Indy Shorts International Film Festival. Get your tickets here. Learn more about the film at GrindFilm.com. Inspired by Grind? Explore MPI’s filmmaker opportunities at thempi.org/filmmakers.