The pandemic has taken its toll on everyone. But, imagine being stuck in isolation with your abusive husband. Would it drive you to the edge of no return?

This the basic premise of actor-turned-filmmaker D. Elliot Woods’ new short film “Life and Lemons.” The film took shape during the Hollywood shutdown, being conceived and safely shot with a limited cast, including Sandra Thigpen Ferrari and Keith Burke.

Previously, Woods has portrayed both humans and aliens in several “Star Trek” projects. He has also appeared on many TV shows, like “NCIS: LA,” “Ballers,” “Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D,” “Friends,” and “Drake & Josh.” In addition, he writes, produces and directs projects for his Fly Free Entertainment company and is currently working on two new projects.

D. Elliot Woods recently answered a few questions about “Life and Lemons”:

Tell us about your new short film “Life and Lemons.”

WOODS: “Life and Lemons” is a suspense/thriller with horror edges. Just when you think you know what’s going on… turns out it’s not quite what you were thinking. We’re hoping folks enjoy it.

What inspired you to write the script?

WOODS: A couple of days into the quarantine, I heard a news report saying police were getting a much higher rate of Domestic Violence calls than normal because people were unable to take periodic breaks from one another. It’s a horrible thing to be unable to get away from an abusive person – be it physical, emotional or psychological damage being inflicted. I was thinking about the news report and looking in my back yard when a lemon fell from the tree and I immediately thought “When life gives you lemons… make lemonade.” And I immediately knew that was the premise.

You play Daniel; why did you want to portray this character?

WOODS: Casting for TV and a lot of films moves quickly. As a result, Actors are often cast by how they’re generally perceived rather than by their abilities because there isn’t always ‘time’ to look for ‘different.’ In my case, I’m often cast as good-natured characters or in authoritative roles. I’ve rarely been cast as the ‘bad guy’. When you’re doing independent film, you look for ‘challenges or opportunities for roles outside of your normal so that you can expand as a performer.

Was it difficult to direct the film while also starring in it?

WOODS: It was challenging but not difficult. I’m what’s called an Actor’s Director and I had the good sense to surround myself with super talented actors who I knew would be open to the frequency I operate from but more importantly I knew Sandra Thigpen Ferrari and Keith Burke would bring more to their roles than what was on the page. Because we were in the middle of a quarantine cinematographer and editor Edgar P. Davis was available and he is an absolute auteur who understands my thought process and speaks my ‘crazy.’

Any interesting stories from the set you can share with us?

WOODS: I’ve known everyone involved with the project for years, so what made this experience stand out was the fact that we had to be different because of the pandemic itself. It was all of our first experiences at using social distancing protocol in front of and behind the camera. I’ve never been a part of a production where, literally, no person or character ever touches or physically comes close to another person.

What’s the biggest lesson you learned from working on this project?

WOODS: Truly anything is possible! We are living in uncertain times and having to learn how to navigate and operate differently and safely on-the-fly. But when folks believe in something collectively and are willing to invest of themselves to solve difficult or complex issues… there’s always room for magic to enter.

And, now just for fun:

Who’s your favorite director and/or actor/actress?

WOODS: Spike Lee’s body of work as a director is awesome. I’m hoping he sees this, hires me and pays me huge money.

What film from the past do you wish you created?

WOODS: “The Hustler.” It’s one of the few movies I’ve ever seen that is a completely different film experience when you focus on any specific character rather than just seeing the movie as a whole.

Favorite movie or TV show from your childhood.

WOODS: “Miami Vice.”

Tell us one thing that would surprise our readers to learn about you.

WOODS: My friends constantly yell at me to do stand-up comedy – which I do enjoy – but there’s never enough TIME.

How can fans keep up with you?

WOODS: IG: @DElliotWoods link
Twitter: @DElliotWoods link.
I’m getting “better” at posting things. I used to be absolutely heinous. LOL Thanks!

Thanks -- and keep making Lemonade!