On The Set: Directing “Welcome Home” with Walden Woods

Walden Woods has directed dozens of scenes on ASGmax, but Welcome Home is his first time directing a feature. Welcome Home is more than just a film about attraction—it’s an exploration of the unspoken emotions simmering beneath long-standing friendships. With a central theme that flirts with the idea of realizing deeper feelings for a friend, the film serves as a reminder to never judge a book by its cover.

Woods approached the visual storytelling with the intention of making Welcome Home feel warm and inviting. He wanted to create a safe space where characters could unfold naturally, bringing youthful excitement and personal growth to the forefront. Initially toying with the idea of a sitcom-style shoot, he infused fun into every scene, ensuring that nothing felt too serious. His preference for dynamic, naturalistic performances led him to encourage the actors to engage with their environment—whether eating, fidgeting, or simply being present—making every moment on screen feel organic and relatable.

“I incorporated elements of his own life into the film,” Woods shared, “Having had friends come out to me after years of silence, I deeply understood the delicate, often exhilarating, nature of discovering one’s truth.”

The film brings together a dynamic cast, each actor adding depth and authenticity to their roles. Carter Collins, under Woods’ direction for the first time, played a cocky yet fluidly sexual character, embracing the challenge with enthusiasm. Andrew Delta, known for his ability to channel subtle vulnerability, took on the role of a down-on-his-luck protagonist, while Justin Matthews delivered yet another stellar performance as the best friend—a role he consistently excels in. Ty Santana’s portrayal of the “friend with benefits” added levity and spontaneity, embodying the phrase “he came in, fucked around, and found out.”

“My directorial approach is rooted in collaboration. I like to dry-run scenes multiple times to really allow the actors to experiment with their characters before deep-diving into direction. This method makes the performances feel natural and tailored to each actor’s strengths,” Woods explained.

One standout scene was the workout montage—a clever addition to build sexual tension early in the film. Another highlight was a breakfast scene between Justin Matthews and Andrew Delta, which came to life beautifully with the help of simple props. According to Woods, “A fed model is a happy model.”

However, shooting wasn’t without its challenges. A particularly tricky moment involved filming a sex scene in a living room with a window facing the street. Instead of letting the logistical difficulty dampen the mood, Woods and his team embraced the moment with a playful attitude, jokingly adopting a “let them watch” mentality.

Unexpected moments also shaped the film in exciting ways. Carter Collins’ willingness to step up his acting and embrace every challenge was a welcome surprise. His youthful energy as a newcomer added a layer of excitement and spontaneity that enriched the overall chemistry of the cast.

Woods emphasized, “The chemistry among the actors was what truly set this film apart from others I’ve directed. With a longer production schedule, the cast had ample time to bond. They were all genuinely attracted to each other, so the sex almost happened by itself. The set was not just a workspace but a place of constant laughter and camaraderie. Whether it was the camera crew capturing intimate shots in the shower or the ongoing inside joke about preparing endless amounts of breakfast, there was never a dull moment.”

Welcome Home is more than just a film about desire—it’s a story of discovery, unspoken truths, and the fine line between friendship and romance. With Woods’ distinct directorial touch, a talented and committed cast, and a strong sense of chemistry both on and off screen, the film delivers a heartfelt and unforgettable experience.

Watch Welcome Home: Part 2 – Reunited, now playing only on ASGmax!