David Lynch’s Heartbreaking Zombie Film Created by a Dying Teen Will Leave You in Tears

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Recently, the passing of David Lynch has sparked many film enthusiasts like myself to delve into his impressive body of work. Although he only directed ten feature films, his influence extends far beyond that, reaching numerous other projects. One such project might resonate with you if you’ve perused the filmographies of esteemed actors and directors. Among them are Johnny Depp, J.K. Simmons, Laura Dern, Sam Raimi, Peter Farrelly, Penelope Ann Miller, Chad Coleman, Richard Chamberlain, Catherine Hardwicke, Theodore Melfi, Jade Pettyjohn, and others. The title of this unique piece is “The Black Ghiandola“, a short film penned and starring Anthony Conti, a 16-year-old cancer patient who brought the film to life just two months before his own journey came to an end.

The film’s creation was facilitated by the Make A Film Foundation, a non-profit organization founded in 2007 that assists children facing severe or life-threatening illnesses in producing short films with the help of professionals from the industry who generously donate their time. Conti, who had been diagnosed with Stage 4 Adrenal Cortical Cancer and was an avid movie lover with a passion for horror, was resolute about making a genuine film. The foundation played a crucial role in helping him realize this dream.

Previously mentioned artists joined forces to bring “The Black Ghiandola,” a post-apocalyptic zombie tale, to life. This story follows a young man whose loved ones have been lost in a catastrophe, and he bravely endeavors to rescue a child in peril. Going beyond the boundaries of a typical horror film, as Anthony puts it, this production served as an allegory for Conti’s personal circumstances. “The Black Ghiandola” premiered on April 22, 2017, about three months following Conti’s passing on January 29, 2017, surrounded by his cherished family. As per his obituary, Conti breathed his last among his loved ones.

During the recent summer season, Anthony enrolled in a film course at the local high school. Unfortunately, not long after the class began, he was diagnosed with Adrenocortical Cancer, forcing him to leave for medical treatment. Following this diagnosis, Anthony reached out to the Make A Film Foundation, expressing his desire to collaborate with them on a significant Hollywood movie project. His dream came true when he was flown to Los Angeles, where he worked alongside A-list celebrities and top Hollywood directors and crew members to produce “The Black Ghiandola.

You can watch the full short film below.

A Cavalcade of Talented Filmmakers Tell a Harrowing, Personal Story

In Conti’s movie, it appears as though he’s working through a deeply personal experience—he seems to be in the midst of his own end times. When one is near death, it can feel like everyone around you is also perishing. In this short film, Conti’s parents have become zombies and the world he knows is crumbling. He realizes that he too is infected and doesn’t have much time left. However, when a girl of similar age knocks on his door asking for aid, he sets aside his own survival instinct to help her instead.

One of the most impactful moments in “The Black Ghiandola” is undoubtedly the hospital scene, given that its protagonist, Anthony Conti (an Italian-American character who had adrenal gland cancer), adds a poignant layer to the story. In this scene, we witness a tense interaction between Laura Dern and director David Lynch, but it’s Johnny Depp’s eccentric portrayal of a doctor that truly stands out. His humorous improvisations with Conti during filming, as well as his heart-wrenching demise, make for an unforgettable experience. As we remember and celebrate the life of David Lynch following his passing, let us not forget to honor Anthony Conti as well.

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2025-01-17 19:03