The Beard Trilogy consists of three short films produced between 2023 and 2026 in Greensboro, NC, by Wil Davis, Nick Jones and a small group of friends and collaborators. While not a traditional trilogy, each short film stars Nick Jones and features original music composed by him, and each one was directed and photographed by Wil Davis. Although each film features different characters and stories, they share overlapping themes, like family, friendship, romance and art, and were made with an overlapping cast and crew.
Earthling (2023) is a black-and-white arthouse hipster dramedy about a random earthling, Nick, who spends his time working, sleeping, dreaming, frolfing, hanging with friends and family, making music, working some more and pursuing romance. Watch the film here.
Itchy Feet (2024) is a road movie about Nick, an amateur photographer who gets the urge to travel. In his trusty van, he makes his way west into the mountains of North Carolina to visit his sister, then makes his way back east to the Outer Banks, picking up and reconnecting with an old friend along the way. Watch the film here.
The Sandwichman (2026) is a neo-noir rom-com thriller about Nick, who delivers food on his bike for a living. His relatively contented life is upended when he reconnects with an old acquaintance and romantic interest, Erin, whose jealous ex-boyfriend begins to stalk Nick. Watch the film here.