This paper examines the production of the thesis film The Last Act of a Desperate Man. The film's production is explored with respect to writing, directing, production design, cinematography, editing, sound design, technology and workflow. Particular attention is paid to the dynamics of acting and directing simultaneously. The production is examined with regard to major decisions which influenced each area of production, ultimately shaping the final film. The film maker's own analysis is offered in conjunction with feedback from a test screening with a statistical analysis of the test audience's poll responses.