The Meal Man

In The Meal Man, written and directed by Drew Rodgers as his LMU film school senior thesis, viewers are transported to the gritty, smoky underbelly of 1950s Los Angeles. The Meal Man, a mysterious figure known worldwide, falls for a woman who doesn't recognize him. He frequents her bar and impresses the other patrons with his culinary skills, but remains tormented by his inability to create the "Unmakeable Meal." The Meal Man becomes entangled in a web of crime, love, deception, and moral ambiguity.

My role as Production Designer, Set Decorator, and Prop Artisan involved recreating the mid-1950s with meticulous attention to detail. The film was shot on location at an iconic Irish bar in Los Angeles, where I infused the space with over 500 pieces of authentic set dressing, including vintage lamps, glassware, and period-specific bar equipment. These true-to-period antiques, along with carefully selected props like the Meal Man's signature knives and custom-made holster, added depth and authenticity to the film's aesthetic. The hand-sewn knife handles and holster, crafted from leather, copper wire, and embroidery thread, were particularly significant in establishing the character's mysterious aura.

To enhance the period atmosphere, I also arranged for a 1950s sedan to appear in the exterior shots, subtly anchoring the story in its historical context. The visual elements I created were instrumental in bringing Drew Rodgers' vision to life, making The Meal Man a captivating blend of historical accuracy and compelling storytelling. The film's evocative set design and intricate props not only set the stage for the narrative but also enriched the viewer's experience, immersing them in a world where every detail tells a story.