Beyond the Porch Information

Founded in 2014, Beyond the Porch (“BTP”) is a filmmaker-led production company built by Edd Benda, Stephen Helstad, and Alex Bell. BTP partners with brands, marketing agencies, communication firms, and private investors to create short and long form video entertainment. BTP produced the feature film CHILI FINGER, starring Judy Greer, Bryan Cranston, Sean Astin, and John Goodman. The movie was written by Stephen Helstad and co-directed by Edd Benda and Stephen. The film premiered at the SXSW Film Festival and Variety notes that it “hits the spot like a hearty bowl of chili.” BTP branded content includes the award-winning short doc “Farmer Lee” directed by Stephen Helstad and produced in partnership with Steelite International. The film premiered during the National Restaurant Association trade show and was recognized with a Platinum MarCom Award, a Golden Telly Award, and official selections to multiple film festivals including the Academy-qualifying HollyShorts. Additional brand films produced with Steelite include, “RAMSES District,” “Designing The Westin London City,” and “Elizabeth Blau”. BTP’s first feature film SUPERIOR was written & directed by Edd Benda and filmed along the shores of Lake Superior. Dubbed “a real charmer, you betcha” by the Detroit Free Press, the movie was selected as Best Picture Winner - East Lansing Film Festival, Best Picture Nominee - Orlando Film Festival, Best Picture Nominee - Cinema on the Bayou Festival, Audience Award Winner - Soo Film Festival, and Competition Narrative Feature - Dances With Films.