September 22, 2025 — Clovis-based actor and director KP Phagnasay has a goal and that’s to put the local film scene on the map. His most recent project is another great addition to his ambitions with another directorial effort.
The short film “True Treasure” has received 8 award nominations from the faith-based 168 Film Festival located in Georgia. The categories are Best Lead Actor (Tyler Tuck), Best Lead Actress (Bianca Stam), Best Supporting Actress (Melissa Darling), Best Cinematography (Andre Andrew Jr.), Best Production Design (George Ohan & Dallas Kosian), Best Director and Best Editor for Phagnasay, and Write of Passage (screenplay) for James Lee Beeler.
Phagnasay told the Clovis Roundup:
“These nominations mean the world to me, our cast and crew, and to the entire Central Valley. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together. With the right resources and support, the possibilities here are endless, that’s why I chose to film in this community.”
The story was filmed in the Central Valley including Clovis. The theme for all the entries was “truth” and the festival gave the scripture Matthew 6:21 to the production. It’s a historical drama/romance/war film.
Synopsis:
“A former football star turned soldier searches for love, truth, and meaning in the aftermath of war. Haunted by what was lost and what could have been, he journeys across time and trauma to uncover what truly matters.” (Courtesy of Phagnasay)
Phagnasay praises Tuck and Stam for delivering powerful and emotionally rich performances that truly anchored the story.
The cast includes Said Faraj (veteran actor from Los Angeles), Andre Soukhamthath (former UFC fighter), M Dot Taylor (Navy veteran and music artist), and Jacob Wilson, a Central Valley native now based in Los Angeles.
The local acting talent featured Steve Haynes, Darling, Jeffrey Smith, Gina Leneé (a pianist who provided some soundtracks to the film), Raul Vasquez, Jorgen Ramirez, and Marie Hernandez (served as the head of wardrobe). Joe Martin from Doc’s Gym, a Navy SEAL veteran, took on the role of the colonel.
A military presence was evident in front of the camera and behind the scenes. Veterans like producer Ohan (Army) of Fulton Film Company and the Director of Photography, Andrew Jr. (Navy).
Phagnasay said:
“What made this project even more special was the opportunity to mentor aspiring creatives who wanted to learn and be part of the process. We had an amazing mix of experienced professionals and passionate newcomers, all united by a shared mission to tell a meaningful story.
Working with this cast and crew was truly an incredible experience. None of this would have been possible without their passion, dedication, and unwavering belief in the story we were telling. Every member of the team, from cast to crew, brought heart, grit, and creativity to the table.”
Phagnasay credits the local community in playing a huge role in making the film a reality. They filmed at The Lotus Pond in Sanger, used a real Huey helicopter, with other locations like Vision View Business Center and Old Town Saloon.
“Filming in Clovis has been an incredibly rewarding experience. As someone who grew up here, I’ve always seen the potential this town holds, not just in its stunning natural backdrops and historic charm, but in the unwavering support from the local community,” said Phagnasay.
The project came about when Phagnasay was approached by producer Henry Wong, who connected him with Beeler, the writer and executive producer. Beeler has strong connections to the Valley as his grandmother grew up in Clovis. He invited Phagnasay to direct the short film because of his background, not just as a filmmaker, but as someone who is a direct product of the Vietnam War era, having come to this country as a refugee.
Phagnasay sees the film as a tribute that honors those who served, especially the forgotten veterans of the Vietnam War, who returned home only to face new battles. It’s a love story with a deep purpose that explores the sacrifices, heartache, resilience, and the faith of those who lived through that time.
They’ve already submitted the film to the festival where it’ll be screened with other films from around the world at Fayetteville, GA, on Saturday, October 18. They’re aiming to submit to additional festivals and eventually secure a streaming platform release. Maybe a feature could be in the works.
Phagnasay is passionate about establishing his hometown as a filmmaking mecca and a project like this can contribute greatly to that dream.
“Clovis offers something truly special for filmmakers. That’s why I’m committed to bringing more productions here. It’s not only my hometown, it’s a hidden gem for storytelling waiting to be discovered,” said Phagnasay.
View the trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vPqEjvGiWuE