ACT!, 13min., USA
Directed by Freddy Barouh
Ten minutes before showtime, a theatre group unravels into warm-up disasters, personal drama and backstage chaos as they scramble to survive opening night.

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
I’ve always been drawn to comedy, especially the kind that comes from real human behavior. What motivated me to make ACT! was the desire to explore the world actors live in right before a performance—the pressure, the unpredictability, and the small, often funny moments that happen behind the scenes.

I was particularly interested in how different personalities, backgrounds, and energies collide in one shared space, and how that naturally creates both tension and humor. As an actor, I also wanted to challenge myself by stepping directly into that world, which is why I chose to play the character of Austin. It allowed me to explore that environment from within and shape a performance that reflects the reality of what actors experience in those final moments before going on stage.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
The film took around six months from development to completion, with about two months in pre-production, a couple of days of filming, and a longer post-production process.

Because the film is a comedy, we were very precise in the editing stage. We treated the film like a puzzle, constantly refining timing, rhythm, and structure to make sure each moment landed effectively. The first cut was significantly different and much longer, and through multiple revisions we shaped it into the final version.

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

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
One of the biggest challenges was translating the rhythm of comedy from the script into something that felt natural on screen. Comedy relies heavily on timing and energy, and finding that balance between precision and spontaneity took a lot of adjustment throughout the process.

We also filmed at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in Los Angeles, which meant we had a very limited window to bring everything together. That required a strong sense of focus and coordination from everyone involved, both in front of and behind the camera, to make sure we captured the full vision within that time.

5. What is your favorite stage of the filmmaking process?
My favorite stage is being on set, because that’s where the character fully comes to life. It’s the moment where you can explore, adjust, and respond in real time with your scene partners.

When working on ACT!, I approached the performance by experimenting with different comedic techniques. At first, I leaned into pushing the physicality and rhythm of the character to find the humor, but I realized it felt slightly forced. I then shifted toward a more grounded approach—playing the truth of the moment and letting the humor emerge naturally from the situation. That adjustment helped me direct the cast with more clarity, and at the same time allowed me to shape my character Austin into a more authentic and effective performance.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
I realized it at a very young age. I’m originally from Greece, where I was introduced early on to the world of performance through ancient Greek tragedies and comedies. As I grew older, that exposure developed into a deeper interest in how stories are brought to life on screen.

I’ve always believed that every character exists within a very specific world, and while you are always bringing a version of yourself into the role, it’s about shaping that into something that serves the story. For me, storytelling is about connection—if even one person is moved, entertained, or affected by the work, then it has value.

7. What film have you seen the most times in your life?
The Shawshank Redemption is a film I’ve gone back to many times. It’s a powerful story that combines emotional depth with a sense of hope, focusing on friendship and the ability to find light even in the darkest circumstances. That balance is something I really connect with as an actor and filmmaker.

8. In a perfect world: Who would you like to work with/collaborate with on a film?
I’ve always been very inspired by Aaron Sorkin’s work, particularly his writing style. His dialogue has a very distinct rhythm and precision that creates momentum and clarity for actors. I’ve studied works like A Few Good Men and The Social Network, and I find the structure and pacing of his scripts incredibly engaging.

I think writing like that becomes a powerful tool in an actor’s hands, because it gives you a strong foundation to build a performance on while still leaving room for interpretation.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experience been working on the festival platform site?
My experience with FilmFreeway has been very positive. It’s a practical and efficient platform that allows filmmakers to connect with a wide range of international festivals and opportunities, making the submission process both accessible and streamlined.

10. What is your favorite meal?
Sushi.

11. What is next for you? A new film?
I’m currently developing a new project centered around a comedic character I’m excited to play. The story explores someone who becomes increasingly overwhelmed by modern life and starts finding unconventional ways to distance himself from that pressure.

At the same time, I’m continuing to focus on acting while developing new work as a filmmaker, with the goal of building projects that combine strong performances with engaging storytelling.