A Long-Standing Creative Partnership
In the cinematic landscape of director Kristoffer Borgli, there is a recurring presence that eagle-eyed viewers might recognize: Jordan Raf. The New York City-based musician and actor has carved out a unique niche, appearing in nearly every one of Borgli’s feature films. Most recently, Raf appeared in The Drama, playing a catering chef caught in the middle of a pivotal, relationship-altering scene. While his screen time may be brief, his creative footprint on Borgli’s work is significant.
Raf’s involvement extends beyond acting. He is a frequent contributor to the sonic identity of these films, providing music that captures the specific, often absurdist, tone Borgli is known for. His latest contribution, the track “Sky Turns Red,” serves as a centerpiece for a bookstore scene in The Drama, grounding the film’s emotional stakes in a timeless, crooning melody.
From Hollywood Parties to the Big Screen
The collaboration between the two artists began in the late 2010s, born from a shared sensibility for the absurd. Meeting at a Hollywood Hills party, both were early in their careers and eager to break away from the conventional paths of their peers. Raf recalls that their connection was instantaneous, rooted in a mutual desire to create work that felt sophisticated yet unconventional.
This partnership has evolved through various projects, including the music video for “Scales of St. Michael” and roles in films like Sick of Myself and Dream Scenario. For Raf, working with Borgli is an exercise in exploring the nuances of alternative storytelling. He describes Borgli as a director who contains multitudes—someone who possesses an encyclopedic knowledge of cinema while maintaining a penchant for the bizarre.
Reflecting on The Drama
When discussing the themes of The Drama, Raf views the film as a profound allegory for the current American cultural climate. He notes that the central conflict—a struggle with moral absolutism and the performative nature of modern relationships—mirrors the broader societal numbness he and Borgli often seek to critique through their directing and musical choices.
As Raf continues to balance his career as a musician and an actor, his collaboration with Borgli remains a cornerstone of his artistic output. Whether through a subtle cameo or a haunting breakup song, Raf’s contributions ensure that he remains a vital, if understated, voice in contemporary independent film.
