'The Travel Companion' Explores Creative Insecurities and Friendship

'The Travel Companion' is a new independent film that tells the story of Simon, a struggling documentary filmmaker, and his friendship with Bruce, an airline worker who invites Simon to be his traveling companion for a year, meaning he can fly for free. But their relationship is complicated when Bruce meets Beatrice, a more successful filmmaker that challenges Simon's creative insecurities. The film, shot locally around New York, premieres at BAM April 10-16. Co-writers and directors Alex Mallis and Travis Wood discuss their inspiration for the story, and what it takes to make an indie film in 2026.

Film still courtesy of Oscilloscope Laboratories