Trailer:

A guidance counsellor and a teenager clash over a simple schedule change — but neither of them is ready for what surfaces.

In a single charged meeting, institutional failure and reluctant empathy collide.

Raw, intimate, and sharp, How Close Am I? explores what happens when care becomes compulsory — and connection isn’t part of the curriculum.

Director Statement

How Close Am I? was born from a simple question: what happens when two people, both trying to do the right thing, completely miss each other?

Set in a single room over the course of one meeting, the film explores the quiet violence of institutional care -- where good intentions meet systemic limits. We wanted to capture the friction that arises when someone is grieving in a world that asks them to get back on schedule.

The performances are raw and shaped more by rhythm and circumstance than by control. The edit follows that energy: responsive, tense, and always in conversation with where the power is sitting in the room.

As filmmakers with a background in theatre, we approached this film like a live event. Uncomfortable visuals. No score. Just two people and the weight of everything they don’t say.

We made this film because we know what it feels like to be asked to care without enough time, training, or support. And we know what it’s like to need help — but to be met instead with policy. This isn’t a story about heroes or villains. It’s a story about proximity, power, and the fragile line between compassion and collapse.

— Nick Dipchand (Director/Producer)

About the Director.

Nick Dipchand is a director, writer, composer, producer, and actor known for his independent film work and digital media content. Originally from Toronto, Canada, he is now based in London, UK. He is the co-founder and producer of Action Story Films.

Nick brings a performance-driven approach to filmmaking, with a focus on emotionally charged, dialogue-led stories. His first short film, Cold Call, was completed in 2019. In 2020, he followed up with Friendly, Engaging, Trustworthy, Professional., a wry look at performative sincerity. His latest film, How Close Am I? — an intense two-hander set in a school office — was completed in 2025.

His first short film, Cold Call, premiered in 2019. In 2020, he completed Friendly, Engaging, Trustworthy, Professional., a wry look at performative sincerity. His latest film, How Close Am I? — an intense two-hander set in a school office — completed in 2025.

Nick is the co-founder and producer of Action Story Films.