Life Member Alex Richanbach ’07 says his history degree from the UO set him apart from the masses when applying for jobs. Richanbach, a history major and Resident Dean’s Scholarship recipient, moved to Los Angeles shortly after graduation to pursue his interest in film making and specifically, to produce his short film “Stealing Second” with co-producer Lindsay Burton.

Richanbach chose history as his major because of his interest in the subject and the fact that it seemed to provide a good liberal arts education in a respected field, while allowing him to pursue his interest in film making during a creative writing independent study.

“'Stealing Second' is a comedy about the awkwardness of relationships, especially in college, in this new world of dating where you ask people out by texting and never really know if you are just hanging out, or actually dating,” says Richanbach.

The idea for “Stealing Second” came to be in a conversation with a classmate during a study abroad trip in London during his sophomore year on an overnight bus trip to Greece. The two were talking about relationship mishaps and when the idea came about and soon after, Richanbach wrote the first version of the “Stealing Second” script. He then asked two of his friends and fellow Ducks (sociology graduate Chris Courtney ’07 and digital arts major Cameron McCormick) who he claims are pretty hilarious guys, to star in the film alongside Richanbach.

The short film is set to be released during the film festival circuit this spring, with hopes of launching a feature length version of the story shortly after. “Stealing Second” has already received positive press online, including Glamour’s relationship blog, Smitten as well as other online press. Richanbach will be working over the next few months to finalize his feature script and pitch investors who are willing to give these young movie makers a chance.

Richanbach credits his work as a production assistant on movies such as Step Brothers and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button to inspiring him to take some risks and show people he was ready for bigger challenges. Most recently, Richanbach worked as an associate producer on a pilot show for TBS.

To check out the trailer for his upcoming movie, visit http://www.stealingsecondmovie.com