THE SANGUINE, 25min., USA
Directed by Patrick McNerney, Daniel Jones
A crestfallen master and outcast servant rob the grave of a long dead warlord to find he’s returned to defend it.

https://thesanguinefilm.com/

Get to know filmmaker Patrick McNerney:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

After years of working on commercials, music videos, and client-driven projects, I wanted to create something entirely my own—both creatively and technically. I was especially interested in exploring new visual effects techniques and seeing what could be accomplished with little to no budget if everything were handled completely in-house.

Throughout my career, I’d often been told that certain visuals or ideas simply weren’t possible without substantial budgets, representation, or outside backing. Rather than viewing those limitations as obstacles, I decided to remove external control factors entirely by producing, directing, filming, and editing the project independently.

I reached out to Daniel Jones, an exceptionally talented writer, musician, and actor, and asked him to collaborate. I shared a few visual effects concepts I wanted an excuse to explore and asked him to write a short screenplay. What began as a five-minute script quickly evolved into a much larger undertaking: a period fantasy-horror short filmed across multiple locations throughout Texas, featuring original music, period costuming, and a fully realized world.

The production was ambitious and challenging, but incredibly rewarding. Daniel’s original screenplay extends far beyond what we filmed, leaving room for future expansion into a longer film or series. I’m proud that we were able to bring The Sanguine to completion and grateful for the opportunity to share it with audiences. Viewers can expect a dark fantasy-horror experience with layered storytelling and plenty of hidden Easter eggs for those who pay close attention.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?

From early concept to final delivery, the film took several years! The first discussions happened in 2019 and the screenplay was written by Daniel in 2020. By February of 2021 we had secured our copyright and set out making story boards as well as filming various “proof of concept” scenes to ensure the visual FX I had in mind would work. I also needed to know how to film those things when it came time for production so the proof of concept filming/editing was very critical. In addition, I spent a while learning some new software like Unreal Engine and Cinema 4D in addition to sharpening skills in software I was already familiar with like After Effects. In 2024 I was very busy working on series for another company as well as running a business. We secured locations that year and filmed, and started the editing and post process in 2025. By November of 2025, we were finally ready to submit the film to festivals! Grit and determination was required throughout to continue the process and make it happen. Everyone has careers, families and other obligations so we had to be very diligent to always keep the project moving forward.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?

History repeats.

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?

The biggest challenge was balancing ambition with constraints. Creating a convincing medieval world with a small team required creative problem-solving at every stage—especially in production design, locations, and sound. Rather than fight those limitations, we leaned into them, which ultimately shaped the film’s tone.

5. What is your favorite stage of the filmmaking process?

Post-production. That’s where the film truly reveals itself. The edit, sound design, and score allowed us to sculpt tension, pacing, and meaning in a way that wasn’t fully visible on set.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?

I’ve always been drawn to storytelling through sound and imagery, but filmmaking became a clear calling once I realized how powerful that medium was at a young age. Films that lingered with me long after the credits—rather than explaining everything—made me want to create worlds of my own.

7. What film have you seen the most times in your life?

The Exorcist, The Matrix and the Indiana Jones franchise.

8. In a perfect world: Who would you like to work with/collaborate with on a film?

In a perfect world, collaborating with filmmakers who prioritize tone and mythology. Artists who trust the audience and let mystery breathe.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experience been working on the festival platform site?

FilmFreeway has been a very streamlined and transparent platform. It’s made submissions, communication, and tracking festival responses straightforward, which allows filmmakers to focus more on the work itself.

10. What is your favorite meal?

Something simple and hearty—good bread, meat, and spirits. Very on brand, apparently, for the film and a Texan!

11. What is next for you? A new film?

Currently we are focusing on the film festivals, marketing and distribution for The Sanguine. I’ve been working with an independent studio in Florida on other creative ventures, but would like the opportunity to pitch The Sanguine as a larger IP ultimately, using the short as a proof of concept.