“The Earth is Created. It is day number one.” A spiritual, self-reflective, series of short poems about creation – about all the gifts mankind has been given: the rhythms of night and day, of life, the seasons, the oceans and more. All with the promise of peace and love, which man sometimes abuses, but for which he is always forgiven.
Review by Victoria Angelique:
The moving photo essay, POETRY MOVIE THE RHYTHMS NEVER END, is a spiritual journey that resonates with God’s love and promises to His children. The narration feels like a storybook, as if this is a soothing bedtime story with the warning to take care of Earth as it was given to humanity as a gift.
The pictures that are in sync with the poem displays the rhythms of Earth, proving how there is a Creator behind the seasons, oceans and every life on this planet. God created the perfect rhythm, as the eternal cycle of life is depicted through the generations of motherhood in comparison with the beauty of nature to display the promise of everlasting life.
The film even shows the harsh realities of the world when humans began forsaking the promises of God, nature began to suffer and as a result, people stopped reproducing when they forgot about eternity. The uplifting narration reminds the audience that if we begin to adhere to our Heavenly promises, then as the children of God we will begin to benefit from His promises and the gifts from Heaven as other people have since the beginning of time.
Everything on Earth is a gift, given to humans to care and nurture. This is a poetic tale with the universal truth that displays God’s beautiful Earth and how humans have begun to fail Him by taking care of the planet given to our stewardship. A beautiful masterpiece that depicts Heavenly promises and warnings, spoken in a soothing tone so that people of all ages can enjoy the message to once again live for eternal life by seeing the gifts of God all around us in a call to protect and continue life on our Earth as commanded.
DAKINI, 43min., Nepal
Directed by Arniko Kumar Singh
When darkness holds the light, the thin line between good and evil becomes an illusion. Unravel the captivating journey between perception and reality.
Get to know the filmmaker:
– I always wanted to make a movie based on folklore and bring originality to the screen. Hence, this movie was the best way for me to showcase my ideas and interests.
Submit your Short Story to the Festival here and we will automatically have it performed by a professional actor and turned into a promotional video for yourself.
Various options to submit to the Festival. A HYBRID model. Cinema screenings for audience feedback video (not an online festival). Blog and podcast interviews. And bonus Virtual screening (optional!) geared to create community over distance, PLUS, get your film seen by the right people.
Submit via FilmFreeway:
Festival designed to expose and promote films and screenplays that work outside the system and break the boundaries in the horror genre. To bring a voice to the talented independent filmmakers & writers within the horror genre.
Submit your HORROR films and screenplays today to the festival.
Our mission is to promote screenplays, films and videos that dissent radically in form, technique, or content, and challenge and transcend commercial and audience expectations using the audience FEEDBACK festival format that the flagship festivals uses.
Film festival occurs with a private audience at least 6 times a year in Montreal and Los Angeles. Each accepted film received 2 festival screenings. Private cinema screening where they will receive their audience feedback video. And the virtual screening (4-6 weeks after) that is an industry showcase of the best HORROR films from around the world today.
Screenplay Festivals occur once a month. We perform a transcript script of the winners in a studio using professional Canadian actors and post them online for the entire world to see. (Great proof of concept video to use to promote your script.)
NOTE: Accepted works also get the opportunity to do two interviews: A blog interview and an ITunes Film Festival podcast interview.
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HORIZONTES, 2min., Argentina Directed by Ileana Andrea Gomez Gavinoser BIRD SEARCHS HORIZONS
CLARITY, 6min,. USA Directed by Bryce Mackie The struggle of addiction. The healing in recovery.
LULLABY OF UKRAINE, 3min,. Ukraine Directed by Alexander Sparinsky Dedicated to the Children of Ukraine, victims of the brutal Russian invasion… Let everyone ask themselves and the leaders of their countries: what else has to happen, what arguments are needed that Ukraine is finally given the necessary military aid for Victory?
WEIRDOS, 6min,. USA Directed by Paul Hollingsworth What if Jasmine and her middle school frenemies are humanity’s best chance at stopping a Monster invasion?
DEATH PENALTY, 11min., Sweden Directed by Adrian B. Morina The ultimate wish of the convicted criminal, which shook everyone in the courtroom, in anticipation of the execution, asked as his last wish that the letter was handed over to his mother. The letter read:
MOBILITY RIGHTS, 20min., USA Directed by Changhee Chun Mobility Rights is a poetic visual examination of disabled people’s struggle in South Korea. It portrays the disabled fights being seen after decades of being denied basic rights. As an observation of the daily lives of the disabled and their fights, the film allows the audiences to not only relate to the struggle towards basic rights the disabled endure, but also reflect on their own pursuit of rights and happiness. This film highlights the experiences and challenges that they face from the general public, despite Korea’s emphasis on being a communal society.
GRANDMA PERM, 17min., USA Directed by Changhee Chun A personal journey to find mother’s love through this unique and popular hairstyle called “Grandma Perm” in Korea
CAMELLIA FLOWERS, 27min., USA Directed by Changhee Chun Using historical texts and real life accounts of victims of the tragedy, “Camellia Flowers” is a short documentary about the Jeju Uprising or the Jeju 4.3 Incident that took place from March 1st, 1947 to September 21st, 1954. Over the course of those 7 years, thousands of lives were lost and even more were impacted. With resilience and perseverance, the people of Jeju heal their community together while asking for apologies from those who were in power at the time of the incident.
EL JINETE AZUL, 4min,. Argentina Directed by Ileana Gómez THE CHILD GROWS AND LEARNS TO FACE HIS DIFFICULTIES
Casey wants to tell Mia she loves her; but it might not be the right time.
Review by Andie Karvelis:
There are so many things to love about this film, starting with the title. It doesn’t hit you over the head with what the film is about, instead it gives you a little mystery to ponder. Govind Chandran wrote and directed Ti Amo, Mr. Nibbles and he really understood relationships. Especially that fragile moment in a new relationship where you want to say the “L” word but are frightened to say it too.
The cinematography in this short film was stunning and I really appreciated the clever camera angles. This was all filmed in one room but it didn’t feel like one room, it flowed so nicely with the dialogue. Plus the filmmakers, Govind Chandran, Jamie Laxton ( Cinematographer ), Grace Thornley ( Assistant Camera ) and Conor Tychowski understood how to make the colors so rich and inviting.
I have to commend the actresses on their performance ( as well as Mr. Nibbles ) because Kelsey Cooke and Emily Kontu were so believable and engaging. They were a joy to watch and as this story unfolds you feel the angst, the disappointment and then the elation with them. Kelsey’s delivery of “rodent” in that disappointed voice had me laughing – because we’ve all been there.
One of the other things to love about this film is the score, provided by Benjamin Doherty. It compliments all the emotions so beautifully. By the end of this film, you can’t keep from smiling. So grazie and ti amo, Mr. Nibbles.
Noah is a self destructive Drag Queen. Ethan is a closeted, quiet College professor. But the chemistry is instant. Together they must overcome their issues so they can have their happily ever after.
CAST LIST:
Narrator: Elizabeth Rose Morriss Noah: Hannah Ehman Velour: Julie Sheppard Chase: Geoff Mays
What is your screenplay about? Pride is about teo damaged people who meet and have an instant attraction but realize they need to work on themselves first. Nosh is a drag queen party boy who is the embodiment self destruction, Ethan os a closeted, self loathing gay college professor.
2. What genres does your screenplay fall under?
Romance, drama, lgbt
3. Why should this screenplay be made into a movie?
Because its message is rarely shared. Most gay films are about found family or family rejection. This piece is about two people who love each other and recognize that being healthy is important, self love is vital. They inspire each other to be there best possible selves. And Noah is hysterical!
4. How would you describe this script in two words?
Love story
5. What movie have you seen the most times in your life?
I’m actially a horror fan so event horizion, Constantine and in the mouth of madness.
6. How long have you been working on this screenplay?
About six months. I’ve been writing gor 35 years so its kind of a glow for me.
7. How many stories have you written?
Probably 100
8. What is your favorite song? (Or, what song have you listened to the most times in your life?)
I couldn’t even pick a genre. I love music, I sing in a trans chorus and i have about 50 dong on high totation, but a million I love
9. What obstacles did you face to finish this screenplay?
I had a motorcycle accident. I flipped over a car twice and was hospitalized for two weeks, the bedridden for four months. I damaged my left had in addition to other injuries and couldn’t type or write.
10. Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about? Everything. Life is amazing and everything in it is a gift. I love music, and justice and helping others, nature, art, science. What’s not to be passionate aboout?
11. You entered your screenplay via FilmFreeway. What has been your experiences working with the submission platform site?
This was my first feature entry. I previously won with a short piece called Judgment. It’s really easy to use and has everything in one place. I love it and pay for gold membership.
12. What influenced you to enter the festival? What were your feelings on the initial feedback you received?
Flipping over a car twice, honestly. It was a revelation on life being short. I always wanted to be a professional writer and you can’t do that if you don’t put yourself out there. It was so nice to see the feedback. It was very positive and the changes recommended made the piece much stronger.
Based on the best-selling book about Officer Sam Harris, a bomb squad leader, and her team of experts as they race against the clock to save innocent live from a serial bomber, including their own. Our lead also happens to be a lesbian , navigating her way through a male dominant culture, inspired by the author’s real life experience as a lesbian in law enforcement.
CAST LIST:
Narrator: Steve Rizzo McKenzie: Hannah Ehman Harris: Julie Sheppard
This one- hour serialized action thriller, based on the bestselling book, Light ‘Em Up, Officer Sam Harris, a bomb squad leader, and her team of expert’s race against the clock to save innocent lives from a serial bomber, including their own. Our lead also happens to be a lesbian, navigating her way through a male dominant culture, inspired by the author’s real life experience as a lesbian in law enforcement.
2. What genres does your screenplay fall under?
It’s a crime action drama that is also LGBTQIA+
3. Why should this screenplay be made into a movie?
It should be made into a TV Series because This high-energy crime drama contains explosive scenes and police chases that drive this action-packed thriller. Set in modern AZ, The show highlights Female Empowerment, Unity and Leadership with characters facing unique challenges showcasing women and people in the LGBTQIA + community as everyday heroes in roles we typically don’t see.
4. How would you describe this script in two words?
Alluring,exciting
5. What movie have you seen the most times in your life?
Aliens
6. How long have you been working on this screenplay?
7yrs
7. How many stories have you written?
1.5 but outlines for 7
8. What is your favorite song? (Or, what song have you listened to the most times in your life?)
My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark by Fall out boys
9. What obstacles did you face to finish this screenplay?
Finances, my wife was in a really bad car accident
10. Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?
Drawing, Painting
11. You entered your screenplay via FilmFreeway. What has been your experiences working with the submission platform site?
Incredible, I have never had a festival reach out even though I wasn’t selected to help me succeed as much as this festival has. The meeting with the consultant, the table read and best scene has been so helpful and encouraging.
12. What influenced you to enter the festival? What were your feelings on the initial feedback you received?
I believe I saw it on film freeway or was invited through a social media platform, I thought the feedback was good but it helped much more doing the one on one meeting because some of the feedback was, I feel self explanatory or very apparent in the script and gave the impression that it was not fully read.
A sixteen year old receives an old car as a birthday gift from his stepfather. When he drives it for the first time, he realizes it isn’t powered by conventional gasoline – but instead, an engine of pure evil.
Narrator: Elizabeth Rose Morriss Jim/Radio: Sean Ballantyne Billy: Steve Rizzo Abby: Hannah Ehman Taylor: Julie Sheppard
Get to know the writer:
1. What is your screenplay about?
Engine of Evil is about a belligerent 16 year old who receives a car for his birthday. Only instead of being ecstatic like most 16 year olds would be to receive such a gift, he doesn’t appreciate it. Little does he know that what powers the car is anything but ordinary – instead, it’s an engine powered by pure evil.
2. What genres does your screenplay fall under?
Horror-Comedy!
3. Why should this screenplay be made into a movie?
As a huge fan of cars (and evil car movies like Christine), I feel like “possessed car stories” are a bit absent of late. For many people, cars are integral to their daily lives. We even develop relationships with them to some extent, learn their quirks, and come to understand their personalities. And we probably remember the very first car we ever owned – it’s a significant milestone, at least it was for me. I’m actually in the process of developing this short script into a full length feature, and I want to explore the aspects of the relationship one has with their vehicle – except the key difference is the vehicle has its own thoughts and opinions as well. And they may not come with the best of intentions…
4. How would you describe this script in two words?
High-octane absurdity! Hopefully that counts as two words.
5. What movie have you seen the most times in your life?
The Matrix, hands down. I distinctly remember the first time I watched Neo waking up in the real world. 9 year old me was terrified, but I couldn’t look away. You just can’t beat the late 90’s aesthetic, the soundtrack, the raw and visceral fight choreography. And of course, Keanu Reeves. I still watch it multiple times a year – it’s one of my comfort movies.
6. How long have you been working on this screenplay?
I started writing this while I was in film school for my horror class, so probably about 6 months (including the time I’ve put into turning it into a feature). As soon as I saw that I’d be concluding my last term with a horror class, I knew that I wanted to write a script about an evil car. I didn’t realize it was going to become a horror-comedy until I started writing it.
7. How many stories have you written?
I’ve written a handful of scripts – a “horror-lite” spec script for The Mandalorian, a TV Pilot, a Silent Hill-inspired video game script, and a full length horror-thriller feature. But before I started writing for film, television, and video games, I was trying to be an author. I’ve finished my first book but there’s still a lot of work to be done on it.
8. What is your favorite song? (Or, what song have you listened to the most times in your life?)
That’s a tough question! It’s probably “Everything In Its Right Place” by Radiohead, but “A Perfect Drug” by Nine Inch Nails would come in close second.
9. What obstacles did you face to finish this screenplay?
Surprisingly, not too many! Writing this script was such a fun process. I think the biggest obstacle was probably stepping out of my comfort zone and trying my hand at writing a bit of comedy. I’m a horror writer through and through, but I think injecting a bit of comedy into it worked out well overall.
10. Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?
When I’m not writing, I love playing video games, watching television and movies, and hanging out with my wife and our two cats, Fox and Scully (yes, we are X-Files fans). I also love cars – especially my 1989 Toyota LE Van.
11. You entered your screenplay via FilmFreeway. What has been your experiences working with the submission platform site?
Film Freeway has been wonderful to use. Once you upload your screenplay, the platform makes it incredibly easy to submit your screenplay to as many festivals as you want. The reviews for each festival give the screenwriters a clear picture of what to expect, and the ability to search for festivals by genre is super useful – and that was how I found out about Horror Underground!
12. What influenced you to enter the festival? What were your feelings on the initial feedback you received?
I wanted to introduce Engine of Evil to the world! And I hope to come back with a full length screenplay in the near future. The feedback touched on all aspects of the script and was concise and great to read.
1. What motivated you to make this film? My motivation to create this film stemmed from a deep desire to honor my father for the immense love, care, and unwavering support he provided me throughout my life.
2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film? The idea for the film came to me two months after my father’s passing on May 26, 2021. I wrote the script as a monologue on July 27, 2021—our shared birthday. That day, alone in a Dallas hotel, I began writing a heartfelt letter to him, which later became the script. I held onto the monologue for a couple of years. When I shared it with my dear friend Ruben, a talented producer and videographer, he immediately connected with my vision. Our collaborative efforts led us to shoot the film at a beautiful location by the end of last summer. Overall, the journey from concept to completion took about two years.
3. How would you describe your film in two words? Souls connection.
4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film? Honestly, since meeting Ruben, I felt confident that we would create this film together, and everything proceeded very smoothly.
5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video? My eyes teared up within the first ten seconds of listening to the feedback. I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude and contentment.
6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films? My passion for acting and movies began in childhood. I performed in theater from an early age and continued to nurture my love for acting through courses and various projects even as I pursued other professional paths. I had written monologues before, but this one was special—it was a tribute to my father and I knew it needed to be brought to the screen.
7. What film have you seen the most in your life? Growing up in Russia, I watched many dramas. Since moving to the US eight years ago, I’ve explored a wide range of films. However, the movie “I Origins” is one I’ve watched more times than any other.
8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career? I would love to see organized, in-person premieres of films. The most valuable part of the festival experience for me is witnessing the genuine reactions of the audience and engaging in dialogues with them. Cinematography has the power to amplify voices, change perspectives, and foster connections and unity.
9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experience been working on the festival platform site? My experience with FilmFreeway was smooth, especially since it was my first time using the platform. One challenge I encountered was distinguishing between legitimate festivals and identifying those with in-person screenings, which I preferred.
10. What is your favorite meal? Anything my grandmother cooks, especially her cabbage vareniki and syrniki.
11. What is next for you? A new film? I have several ideas for future projects. My goal is to create beautiful and meaningful films that touch the hearts of others, fill the world with love, and embrace both light and dark moments.
Festival Reviews 