DON’T BE AFRAID, 1min., Germany
Directed by Brian J. Rassmann
A painter suffers from sleep paralysis.
https://www.instagram.com/brian_bass_dop/
Get to know the filmmaker:
1. What motivated you to make this film?
This started as a small proof of concept for a bigger film I want to make, originally around 15 to 20 minutes. I first imagined it as a kind of poetry film, but the more I sit with it, the more I see it becoming a narrative short.
2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take?
I wrote the script and showed it to my friends. They liked it, so we just went for it and shot the whole thing in a friend’s studio in a single day. All in all it was about three days of work, counting prep and post.
3. How would you describe your film in two words?
Sleep paralysis.
4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
Since I live with sleep paralysis myself, the hardest part was actually getting myself to write about it in the first place, and then to start collecting those first impressions on Pinterest for a moodboard.
5. What were your initial reactions to the audience feedback video?
It was really nice to see people getting pulled in and finding it gripping, especially for a film that’s only a minute long. And it was fascinating to hear what people read into it.
6. When did you realize you wanted to make films?
I started studying at 19, but back then I still had other goals. My real fire for film was lit about two years ago by a very good friend of mine. He and I are actually shooting a feature right now that we’ve split into six short films.
7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
Probably something like the Bourne movies, Johnny English, or Lammbock (a German comedy).
8. What other elements of the festival experience could we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help further your career?
Honestly, I was already really happy with how friendly and professional the festival was. These video feedbacks are a lovely touch and worth their weight in gold. I haven’t come across that at other festivals.
9. How was your experience working on FilmFreeway?
Very smooth and uncomplicated.
10. What is your favorite meal?
Just a relaxed breakfast with fresh rolls a friend of mine bakes himself.
11. What is next for you? A new film?
Alongside the six short films we’re shooting right now, I’ve written a script for a dark action comedy. It’ll be a 25-minute film that we’re planning to shoot in November. It’s inspired by films like Bourne, Johnny English, and The Naked Gun – and it’ll have some horror elements too.
