Writer William Rush (SWEETENER)

A showcase of the best new movies and their respective trailers from around the world today.

AUDIENCE AWARD WINNERS:

MOVIE TRAILER: WORDSPEAKER
Best Cinematography: THE SEEKER
Best Comedy Trailer: DREAM FARM
Best Crime Trailer: GATEWAY TO HEAVEN
Best Direction: IN HOLLYWOOD
Best Documentary Trailer: FAR HORIZON
Best Editing: THE BROKER
Best Experimental Trailer: I COULD TRY TO CARRY ON
Best Family Trailer: WHAT ABOUT THE CHILDREN
Best Horror Trailer: TOYBOY
Best Inspirational Trailer: CYCLES
Best LGBTQ+ Trailer: AMSEL: ILLUSTRATOR OF THE LOST ART
Best Music Video Trailer: DEAD HIDE BELOW
Best Performances: NICE SHOES
Relationship Trailer: FATHER DADDY
Best Sci-Fi Trailer: THE REAL TERMINATOR ROBOT X
Best Story in Trailer: SHOOTING STAR
Best TV Series Trailer: POE & COMPANY
Best Thriller Trailer: SERIAL SCHOOL – TERRY
Voice Over in Trailer: JERUSALEM ROAD

See the Full Lineup of Films:

GATEWAY TO HEAVEN, 3min.
Directed by Magdalena Cundric
When a renowned linguist disappears while visiting the Sorbonne, a Belgian police officer and a Slovenian criminologist must put aside their differences and work together to find him. But their clashing personalities and mutual dislike make their investigation more challenging than they could have imagined.

JERUSALEM ROAD, 2min.,
Directed by Karen Mueller Bryson
Trailer for the screenplay Jerusalem Road written by Simone Yehuda.
http://www.simoneyehuda.com/

FAR HORIZON, 1min.
Directed by Paul May
A trailer for my documentary that criticizes the science behind Round Earth.

SERIAL SCHOOL – TERRY, 6min.,
Directed by Paul J. Pastore
A sadistic group of serial torturers combine their talents to form a “school” , teaching their own specialties of torture and terror for revenge.
http://www.thetheaterproductioncompany.com/

AMSEL: ILLUSTRATOR OF THE LOST ART, 2min.,
Directed by Adam McDaniel
One of the most prolific and popular American illustrators of the 1970s and 1980s, Amsel remains a titanic figure in the world of entertainment art. From his celebrated covers for TV Guide, to iconic portraits of such legendary personalities as Bette Midler and Barbra Streisand, to his remarkable posters for films such as Hello Dolly!, The Sting, Chinatown, McCabe & Mrs. Miller, Murder on the Orient Express, Flash Gordon, The Dark Crystal, Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome – including, most famously, two posters for Raiders of the Lost Ark, the latter named “The Greatest Hand-Drawn Movie Poster of all time” by Total Film in 2011.
http://www.richardamselmovie.com/
https://www.facebook.com/richardamselmovie

https://www.instagram.com/richardamselmovie/

POE & COMPANY, 5min.,
Directed by Lawrence Riggins
Previews Sizzle for POE TV Series

CYCLES, 2min.,
Directed by Dee Cruz
A trailer that depicts the challenges of life…BUT GOD always makes a way for us to triumph!
https://www.facebook.com/CyclesTV
https://www.twitter.com/CyclesTV
https://www.instagram.com/CyclesTV

DREAM FARM, 3min.,
DIrected by Bryce Mackie
Movie trailer of one man’s quest to find his own dream farm.

IN HOLLYWOOD, 1min.,
Directed by Jelena Zlatkovic Velickovic
https://jelenazlatkovicvelickovic.com/
https://www.facebook.com/helenzlatkovic
https://instagram.com/helenzlatkovic/

NICE SHOES, 1min.,
Directed by Nkenge Jones
Living in the land of grief, a comforting sister and an emotionally repressive sister struggle in their relationship as they process their fresh emotions from the passing of a loved-one. Christina and Denise learn to navigate through needed-space and comfort-zones to live, to mourn, to love, and to cope.
https://facebook.com/DNGincProductions
https://instagram.com/phillybratt

I COULD TRY TO CARRY ON, 3min.,
Directed by Vidal D’Costa
Based on my blank verse poem ‘Bruised Battered and Bullied’ , this movie follows a young teen coming to terms with online and offline bullying on a daily basis, as well as the harrowing after effects of the same on her psyche. The movie transitions between monochrome and coloured visuals to tell this story.
https://varivas.community/view/64bf0280fbc6b769e585bc71

SHOOTING STAR, 1min.,
Directed by Lightning N Mitchell
I am Lightning Mitchell, founder of the WBA, born in Hodge Louisiana in 1948. After finishing high school in 1968 I was drafted into the Army to go to Vietnam to fight for my country. After returning home from Vietnam I chased a dream that I had before Vietnam to play professional football in the NFL. But during that chase God had other plans for my life. This is my story. In an era when women had to go overseas to pursue their dream of playing professional basketball after college, one man had a vision.

Home

https://www.instagram.com/lightningnmitchell32/

WHAT ABOUT THE CHILDREN, 1min.,
Directed by Cortez L. Mack
An inspirational youth film about the neglect our children face from their parents in the areas of love, affection, attention and security

THE REAL TERMINATOR ROBOT X, 3min.,
Directed by Robert Mooney

DEAD HIDE BELOW, 2min.,
Directed by Marisa L. Williams
Music from the motion picture Demons Among Us performed by Thorisaz and Ras Shomari, featuring Todd Williams on pyro.

THE BROKER, 3min.
Directed by Frank van der Meijden
When a real estate agent gets unexpected viewers in one of his houses where he keeps a dark secret, the visitors pay a higher price than he can accept.

TOYBOX, 2min.,
Directed by Joseph Charafi

THE SEEKER, 1min.,
Directed by Kipp Howard
Young Uther is off to find his missing father, Lord Rein, who went off and made a pact with the Seer. Now Uther is faced with the truth, lies, monsters, demons, and the dark brotherhood of The Nath!

FATHER DADDY, 41 seconds, USA
Directed by Mayrav Estrin
A conflicted young priest struggles with his seductive demons and unfamiliar desires as he navigates a life of faith, temptation, and the path to redemption, all while being a leader of faith in his church community.

WORDSPEAKER, 1min., USA
Directed by Dennis Sparks
WORDSPEAKER is a short Sci-Fi film in which an isolated radio talk show host makes his last stand as the world around him collapses, full of rage and spit and static.

Synopsis:

Directed by Christian Wehrle

“World War II: The Shipwrecks of Truk Lagoon” is a 45-minute documentary that dives into the haunting underwater world of Chuuk Lagoon, a site of immense historical and ecological significance. Once a formidable fortress for the Japanese Imperial Navy during World War II, this tranquil Pacific lagoon now cradles a ghostly fleet of sunken warships and aircraft, remnants of the devastating Operation Hailstone. Through a blend of captivating underwater footage, historical insights, and expert interviews, the documentary unveils the stories of these submerged relics. It explores the ecological transformation of these wrecks into vibrant marine habitats, while also pondering the ethical considerations of diving in this underwater graveyard. The film invites viewers on a reflective journey, intertwining the lagoon’s war-torn past with its present status as a unique sanctuary for marine life, leaving a lasting impression of the intricate ties between history, humanity, and the natural world.

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555290403495

https://www.wildsound.ca/videos/world-war-ii-the-shipwrecks-of-truk-lagoon-review

Review by Victoria Angelique:

The exceptional documentary WORLD WAR II: THE SHIPWRECKS OF TRUK LAGOON is created in a way that all audiences will enjoy and understand. The film begins with a narration that is written in a familiar tone that draws the viewer in as it is similar to popular narrative programs. This makes the viewer comfortable, ready to be entertained and educated at the same time. The beautiful cinematography and captivating score makes this a creative documentary that is able to keep the attention of the viewer for the entire 45 minutes of the film.

This documentary by filmmaker, Christian Wehrle, combines several brilliant techniques to give the audience the full picture of the history behind Truk Lagoon and the current status of the fragile ecosystem surrounding the sunken vessels. The black and white stock footage takes the film back in time to World War II with a brief synopsis of all the events leading to how the ships were left in a watery graveyard on a gorgeous island. As the camera pans over the sunken ships, the filmmaker overlays what each ship looked like back in the vessels glory days. This makes it a grim visual to see what happened to the war ships and planes that now rest at the bottom of the lagoon. 

The film covers several elements that make it appeal to a vast audience. Historians will love the research into the events leading up to World War II, while war buffs will adore the up close looks of the sunken vessels. Once the history has been established, marine biologists and oceanographers will love the feeling of diving with the scuba divers as they explore the ships and planes up close while also being careful of the marine life. Activists that work to protect ecosystems would also have an interest in the shipwrecks as the locals express concern about trapped oil destroying the reef and marine life if it ever escapes, as they ask for Japanese and American experts to come test the ships so that the ocean life could be preserved.  

This documentary would be a fantastic museum film that is shown on the IMAX. It’s educational, but at a level that everyone could understand without being bored through overly technical terms. It’s a tactic that by speaking in layman terms, keeps the audience interested in learning not only about the shipwrecks, but the history behind the vessels and the ecosystem of Truk Lagoon.

Synopsis:

On the final day of Navarathri, a divine doll must face the fearsome fate that awaits her.

https://kaarya0063.myportfolio.com

https://www.instagram.com/whataaryadoin/

Directed by Aarya Kalyansunder

Review by Parker Jesse Chase:

On the Last Day of Navarathri is a short film which takes viewers on a charming journey into the secret life of divine dolls on the final day of the Navarathri festival. Directed and animated by Aarya Kalyansunder, the film offers a unique perspective by focusing solely on the dolls, providing an intimate and endearing narrative.

The story begins with a dinner conversation between neighbors, shedding light on the challenges of old age and the significance of Navarathri customs like Tamboolam (return gifts) and Sundal (Channa). The film beautifully captures the essence of cultural traditions and holiday celebrations, offering a brief yet insightful glimpse into the lives of the characters.

As the guests depart, the dolls on the Sundal come to life, marking the beginning of the Golu Afterparty. The film skillfully introduces us to the dolls’ personalities, emphasizing camaraderie and a sense of community. The addition of Lakshmi, the newest member, sparks conversations and nostalgic reflections on past encounters with the altar.

Kalyansunder also lends her voice to the character Lakshmi, adding a personal touch to the film. The voice acting is well-executed, capturing the emotions of the characters and enhancing the overall viewing experience.

The narrative takes an unexpected turn when Lakshmi discovers the dolls’ limited annual existence and the fear of being kept in a box forever. A poignant moment ensues, highlighting the theme of imperfection and the acceptance of broken dolls. The film cleverly personifies these inanimate objects, turning them into relatable characters with emotions and concerns.

The animation, done by Kalyansunder, is vibrant and endearing, complementing the film’s overall charm. The decision to focus solely on the dolls’ perspective adds an intimate touch, allowing viewers to empathize with their fears and joys.

The pace of the short is quick, keeping the audience engaged from start to finish. The title, “On the Last Day of Navarathri,” provides a clear and concise expectation of the story, and the film delivers on that promise. The absence of human characters visually enhances the connection with the dolls, making their animated world the focal point.

On the Last Day of Navarathri is a heartwarming and visually appealing short film successfully blending cultural elements, holiday traditions, and the magic of animated storytelling. Aarya Kalyansunder’s direction and animation bring the dolls to life, creating a memorable and enjoyable cinematic experience.

Synopsis:

The film tells about the work of doctor Janusz Garlicki of the Polish national football team, which won, among others, the Olympic gold medal during the time of coach Kazimierz Górski.

All devoted fans of Polish football know well that Janusz Garlicki is one of the best Polish orthopedists who, as a sports doctor, participated in all the greatest successes of the Polish national team. It is worth noting, however, that after the end of this activity, he continued his professional career as the director of the Central Sports and Medical Clinic, a doctor at the Military Institute of Aviation Medicine and the director of the Capital Rehabilitation Center in Konstancin.

Review by Parker Jesse Chase:

“Doctor of the Polish Eagles”unveils the remarkable career of Dr. Janusz Garlicki, the unsung hero behind the success of the Polish national football team during the era of coach Kazimierz Górski. This documentary not only celebrates the team’s achievements, including the Olympic gold medal, but also sheds light on the crucial role played by Dr. Garlicki in the midst of their triumphs.

For devoted fans of Polish football, Dr. Janusz Garlicki is no stranger, being recognized as one of the finest orthopedists in the country. The documentary skillfully weaves together his journey as a sports doctor, chronicling his involvement in the pinnacle moments of the Polish national team’s history. From treating injuries to providing invaluable medical insights, Dr. Garlicki emerges as a pivotal figure in the team’s victories.

What sets this documentary apart is its central focus on Dr. Garlicki’s career. Following his active involvement with the national team, he seamlessly transitioned into diverse roles, becoming the director of the Central Sports and Medical Clinic, a doctor at the Military Institute of Aviation Medicine, and the director of the Capital Rehabilitation Center in Konstancin. This expansion of his professional horizons adds depth to the narrative, showcasing Dr. Garlicki’s enduring commitment to sports medicine and healthcare. It is to be said by his comrades, he may never fully retire.

The film finds its niche in exploring the intersection of on-the-spot physical medicine. It successfully captivates the audience with a rich tapestry of interviews, archival footage, and behind-the-scenes glimpses. The documentary becomes more than a mere sports film; it becomes a journey into the heart of Polish football, providing viewers with a rare and intimate perspective from someone who stood on the sidelines.

The director skillfully intertwines Dr. Garlicki’s personal anecdotes with broader insights into the evolution of sports medicine, creating a narrative that is not only informative but also emotionally resonant. The audience gains a profound understanding of the challenges faced by athletes and the crucial role played by medical professionals in ensuring their physical wellbeing. “Doctor of the Polish Eagles” stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of athletes, coaches, and medical experts, with Dr. Janusz Garlicki rightfully occupying a central place in this narrative. A compelling documentary that transcends its sports genre, offering a captivating exploration of Polish football, the triumphs of the national team, and the indelible mark left by Dr. Janusz Garlicki on the field and in the realm of sports medicine.

Project Links

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NOVEL & SHORT STORY FESTIVAL – Deadline March 4th

Synopsis:

In this short comedy film, Australian wilderness expert, Max Thornwhip, takes on the perilous Australian bush with his trusty partner, John Simmons. With danger lurking behind every corner, will Max make it out alive?

https://www.instagram.com/sadurnproductions

Review by Andie Karvelis:

G’Day, ya alright? We’re travelin’ to the back of bourke for a bottler! Thornwhip Explorations ain’t crook and writer Michael Hooper is a right dag, mate. This clever parody of Steve Irwin’s adventures looks as if it could air on Animal Planet. Wonderful graphic logo of the show and Director of Photography Lucas Williams gives us that lush feel of being in the Australian outback.

Directed by Chase Korzed who gives us a hilarious rapport between Max Thornwhip, portrayed by Michael Hooper, and his trusty (reluctant) assistant John, played by Sina Tadayon as one adventure after another goes wildly wrong. It’s fair dinkum over the top light-hearted fun.

Synopsis:

If we will be facing a devastating human species crises in the future , can we do it better than 2020 ?

Review by Andie Karvelis:

There’s an old saying about the devil’s in the details. You can have something planned so perfectly but the details trip you up and in effect, ruin everything. The filmmakers of Rehearsal grabbed that detail loving devil by the horns and essentially laughed in his face.

Every detail was meticulously executed in Rehearsal, bringing to life an entire world that was seamlessly integrated between computer graphics and live action. The CG team of Miya Shen and Stephen Hu are a powerhouse of talent. But that’s just one part of making a great short film, you need a fantastic script.

That’s where Liane Yang and director Allan Shen come in. They created a story that was believable yet futuristic. When the Tiara virus threatens the entire population on Earth, other planets become the hope of continuing the human race.

So creating an environment on another planet is no easy feat. Clothing, sets, plant life, technology all have to be envisioned and created. Right down to the drinks and the style of your dishware. Director of photography, Vanon Li made certain the entire film had a futuristic look and feel. Plus every actor did an incredible job keeping you on the edge of your seat until a twist ending you don’t see coming.

Hopefully this is just the first in a series of films involving August and the Tiara virus.