Political Festival (April 11-17) Today: Best of WORLD Shorts Festival

Go to the Daily Film Festival Platform http://www.wildsound.ca and sign up for the free 7 day trial to watch a new and original festival every single day.

Go to the festival page directly and watch dozens of films:
https://www.wildsound.ca/todays-film-festival/

Watch the festival: https://www.wildsound.ca/videos/april-16-political-world-showcase

See the Full Lineup of Films:

LAND OF THE FREE, 39min., Australia
Directed by James Ganiere
Shot in Uganda, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, South Africa, London, Washington DC, Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Australia, both overtly and covertly, “Land of the Free: OUT OF THE SHADOWS” goes where no film has ever dared to go before to expose the full depth of subversion and the disinformation campaigns perpetrated by the trophy hunting industry.

https://www.landofthefreemovie.com/
https://www.facebook.com/JamesLynnCecilTomorrow

THE WHEEL, 14min., Turkey
Directed by Metlin EWR
In the 1990s, some newspapers were not allowed to enter the Diyarbakir region, under a state of emergency at that time, although they were legal. Children like Bawer and Hebûn, who were part of the distribution group, would secretly collect these newspapers from outside the city at a previously agreed location and take them to the planned meeting place in the city. There, the children changed their clothes and went out to distribute them, under the guise of other work. But they were constantly followed by those who saw the newspaper as dangerous and wanted to prevent its dissemination. Çerx is a testament to the conditions under which these newspapers were distributed to readers and the difficulties encountered.

https://www.twitter.com/CerxErx74772930
https://www.instagram.com/cerxshortfilm

POWER CUTS, 7min., Myanmar
Directed by Kay Lie
Animated political satire about the Myanmar generals that took power in 2021 and plunged the country into complete misery. “Power Cuts” is one of eight episodes of a series called “The Green Tribe” broadcast by Mizzima TV. This episode deals with the daily power cuts in Myanmar since the generals took the power from an elected government.

http://mizzima.com/
https://www.facebook.com/mizzimaplustv

BOYS ON THE BRINK, 58min,. Nigeria
Directed by Peter Oghenetega Oke, Rume Renee Onosode
BOYS ON THE BRINK documentary is a coming-of-age subject-driven documentary that focuses on 6 young males across 6 communities in Lagos, Nigeria: Epe, Tarkwa Bay, Lagos Island, Victoria Island, Orile and Ajegunle. They are the boys that form a unique demographic that has often been ignored, underestimated and even disregarded – these soon to be husbands/fathers/leaders typically lack accountable guiding figures as they struggle to survive and become men simultaneously. This documentary presents an evocative story-telling of them, by them and for them.

https://www.instagram.com/Boysonthebrink

AHIMSA SATHYAM ASTEEYAM, 17min., India
Directed by Neeraj Sajeeshan
The Life of a village man with Gandhiyan ideals turn into struggle when he comes to a city in seek of a job. will he survive the day?

https://www.instagram.com/friends_dream_movies?igsh=NHQ1YzZpeHFyY2I1

Political Festival (April 11-15) Today: Best of EUROPEAN Shorts Festival

Go to the Daily Film Festival Platform http://www.wildsound.ca and sign up for the free 7 day trial to watch a new and original festival every single day.

Go to the festival page directly and watch dozens of films:
https://www.wildsound.ca/todays-film-festival/

Watch the festival: https://www.wildsound.ca/videos/april-15-polticial-european

See the Full Lineup of Films:

FINDING THE LIGHT, 24min., UK
Directed by Linzy Attenborough
Three trauma survivors tells their stories describing their journeys from darkness to light.

http://www.thoughtjuicefilms.co.uk/

WELCOME TO THOO MWEH KHEE, 25min., UK
Directed by Chris Neilan
Thoo Mweh Khee school sits on the border between Thailand and Burma, offering a safe place to live and study for Karen refugees. This zero-budget, humanitarian documentary explores life at Thoo Mweh Khee, the oppression suffered by the Karen at the hands of the Burmese state, and the values of resistance-through-education that underpin it.

http://www.gorgaifilms.com/

ALL MY TOMORROWS, 52min., Germany
Directed by Jeffrey van Davis
A widowed lawyer seeks solace in the company of a beautiful hispanic prostitute whom he becomes quickly endeared to, complicating their initial business arrangement.

Filmmaker Podcast: EP. 1180 – KATHERINE CONNOR DUFF (THE SLATE)

THE SLATE, 8min., USA
Directed by Katherine Connor Duff
A struggling actress attempts to film a self tape.

https://www.katherineconnorduff.com/

LISTEN to the podcast:

https://www.wildsoundpodcast.com/the-film-podcast-by-wildsound/2024/4/8/ep-1180-filmmaker-katherine-connor-duff-the-slate

https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/ep-1180-filmmaker-katherine-connor-duff-the-slate/id1406973270?i=1000651838728

Get to know the filmmaker:

This film was based on a domestic argument I found recorded on my self tape camera. I lost the argument, I lost the boyfriend, but I won Best Story at TOFFF! After finding said video, I thought it would make for a great short film, where reality is blurred à la cinéma vérité style of the new wave films of the 1960s. I wanted to convey raw authenticity, the unsuccessful balance of career and relationship, and remove the line between fiction and fact. As an actress in LA, I wanted also to explore the audition method where we film so many self tapes using our own homes, our own equipment, and our own readers, in my case, an uncooperative boyfriend.

You can sign up for the 7 day free trial at http://www.wildsound.ca (available on your streaming services and APPS). There is a DAILY film festival to watch, plus a selection of award winning films on the platform. Then it’s only $3.99 per month.

Subscribe to the podcast:

https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/
https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Watch Today’s Festival (April 15th) – Female Directors Festival

Go to the Daily Film Festival Platform http://www.wildsound.ca and sign up for the free 7 day trial to watch a new and original festival every single day.

Go to the festival page directly and watch dozens of films:
https://www.wildsound.ca/todays-film-festival/

Watch the festival: https://www.wildsound.ca/videos/april-15-female-directors

See the Lineup of Films:

IN HOT WATER, 25min,. USA
Directed by Christie Nicholls Nittrouer, Ed Ballart
IN HOT WATER is a sketch comedy short starring Christie Nicholls as an 85-year-old Jane Fonda hosting a talk show in a hot tub. The project has won “Best Sketch Comedy Film” (Culver City Film Festival) and “Best Actress” (Sweden International Film Festival).

Watch the Audience Feedback Video:
https://www.wildsound.ca/videos/in-hot-water-review

HOTDOG, 17min., Switzerland
Directed by Anaëlle Morf
Tanja tries to get unconditional love from her old landlady, who only has eyes for her dog.

Watch the Audience Feedback Video:
https://www.wildsound.ca/videos/hotdog-review

A SHATTERING, 20min., USA
Directed by Jan Jalenak
A carefully constructed marriage implodes when an unexpected call unleashes a fragility and pain that have been simmering for years.

http://babydollfilms.com/
https://www.facebook.com/JanJalenak
https://www.instagram.com/janjalenak

Watch the Audience Feedback Video:
https://www.wildsound.ca/videos/a-shattering-review

THE SLATE, 8min., USA
Directed by Katherine Connor Duff
A struggling actress attempts to film a self tape.

https://www.katherineconnorduff.com/

Watch the Audience Feedback Video:
https://www.wildsound.ca/videos/the-slate-review

Filmmaker Mark Stas (EMERGING FROM THE SHADOWS)

EMERGING FROM THE SHADOWS, 14min., Belgium
Directed by Mark Stas
Takeda was forced to leave Asia after a tragic incident. He travelled but stayed close to the woods in order to remember his heart, but also to live a new life in Europe and tries to forget his past. After three years this peace is suddenly disturbed. While he goes running in the woods, Muto, an Italian gangster discovers suddenly an Asian man in the woods. Maybe this could be the killer his boss, Martello is looking for since many years. Karyudo, a powerful hunter who is also an excellent martial artist, was sent by his corrupt police chief to help the Italian gangster boss. He wants to know where Muto found this Asian man. They have a small issue to arrange and at the woods, Karyudo’s sensitive instinct tells him his prey is there. Karyudo, who has a great sense of honour and justice, doesn’t know the exact details of this hunting, but with the help of Muto, he will track this Asian man in the Italian woods. Doubt will grow in his mind. Martello’s hate during these three years will finally find a reason to be. They will hunt this Asian man down and make him pay, no matter what. Takeda has no other choice than to rise from the shadows, confront his past and fight for his life.

http://www.wingflowsystem.com/
https://www.facebook.com/mark.stas.official
https://www.instagram.com/markstas_wfs/
https://twitter.com/markstaswfs

Get to know the filmmaker:

What motivated you to make this film?

Since I’ve previously acted in action-packed movies like “English Dogs in Bangkok” and “Haphazard,” the desire to make original fight scenes within a concise narrative motivated me. Collaborating with my friend Ron Smoorenburg, I devised a storyline where he could shine as the main opponent. This project was fueled by pure passion, and the very good fusion between Ron and me in the past, would give us again a very good fight scene effect. Initially, it wasn’t intended for festival circuits.

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

The journey spanned approximately three years, with a long stop in between. Given its no-budget nature and the fact that I filmed it primarily with my iPhone, I initially paused the project upon viewing the initial results, deeming them not good enough. However, following the untimely passing of one of the actors, Max, I resolved to honor his memory by completing the film. This decision led to a revision of the story, an addition of a powerful introduction and conclusion.

How would you describe your film in two words?

Memory, Passionate

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

Shooting the majority of the film in Italy and keeping this project on hold, to start again in order to finish this project knowing what was filmed should be used or deleted was a major issue. Additionally, the passing of one of the actors necessitated a reevaluation of the project. Revising previously filmed segments without altering their essence proved to be a significant challenge. Furthermore, losing edited and original footage due to a laptop crash added to the complexity. However, with the invaluable support of friends like Jan, Lina, and Tomo, as well as my wife Juliana, I was able to overcome these hurdles and realize my vision.

What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?

I was profoundly moved and filled with pride to witness the audience’s enthusiastic response to my humble project. Only to hear their words of praise really makes creating movies worth, which I owe for my short movie, to all those who helped me in realising this final result.

When did you realize that you wanted to make films?

My passion for crafting fight scenes in previous action movies paved the way for my interest in filmmaking. Collaborating on a biographical short film, which later won awards, further fueled my aspiration to create meaningful cinematic experiences. Surrounding myself with talented individuals demonstrated the transformative power of collaborative filmmaking, complementing my lifelong dedication to martial arts with a newfound appreciation for the artistry of cinema. I kept in mind that the power of imagination and passion knows no bounds, even in the face of limited resources

What film have you seen the most in your life?

While I’ve enjoyed numerous films and series, “Enter the Dragon,” “Prodigal Son,” “Pan’s Labyrinth” or “the Crow” hold a special place in my cinematic repertoire. However, this list is by no means exhaustive, as each viewing offers a unique cinematic experience.

What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?

Your festival provided a highly professional and engaging experience, with exceptional follow-up and communication. To enhance the experience, I would have loved to have a live festival for award-winning films, allowing filmmakers to fully immerse themselves in the celebration of their hard work and achievements.

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

Overall, my experience with FilmFreeway has been positive, although I’ve encountered some challenges, primarily due to the lack of professionalism at certain festivals. Nevertheless, it remains an invaluable platform for filmmakers to showcase their work and connect with diverse audiences.

What is your favorite meal?

While I enjoy a variety of dishes, some of my favorites include Sushi, Bulgogi, Tteokbokki, and beef sautéed with basil. Additionally, I am a real ice cream lover.

What is next for you? A new film?

Currently, I’m dedicating significant time to my martial arts practice. However, there are exciting new film projects on the horizon, though I’m unable to divulge specific details at this time. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to share more about these projects once they are confirmed.

Submit to the Action/Adventure Festival:

Filmmaker Chaya Gurkov (THE SHIDDUCH CRISIS)

THE SHIDDUCH CRISIS, 24min., USA
Directed by Chaya Gurkov
An Orthodox Jewish girl struggled with her mothers expectations for an arranged marriage.

https://www.instagram.com/reelworks

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

It was something I wanted to talk about. I think there is a narrow scope of Jewish stories in the entertainment sphere and I wanted to talk about an experience that I, and many women growing up in the Orthodox Jewish community, feel being in this dating system. I wanted to write a story with nuance, humour, and honesty in a way that doesn’t demonize the religion that Shaina practices.

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

It took ten months. I started writing the script in November of 2022, when I was accepted into the Reel Works Narrative Fellowship Program. We completed shooting at the start of August 2023.

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

Honest and humorous.

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

The biggest obstacle I faced was handing in ONE final version of the script. Eduardo, one of Reel Works mentors, laughs every time he tells the story of how many new versions of the script I churned out in a matter of days. If I felt like there was something wrong with a scene, or like I wasn’t totally immersed and in love with the version I wrote, I would scrap the whole thing and start over. Obviously, this is a one way ticket to insanity. I learned to accept my imperfections and trust in my process of writing eventually and I’m so happy with how everything turned out.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?

Immensely grateful and excited. I want to thank the audience for the time they gave my film and their insightful comments.

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

In March 2021, when a professor at college told me that I have a voice and one that’s interesting, too, after I submitted a short script assignment for the first time.

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

Manchester by the Sea, written and directed by Kenneth Lonergan.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?

It would be wonderful to be able to meet the winners and festival staff in person so we can connect.

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

Entirely positive.

10. What is your favorite meal?

My Bubby’s meatballs and rice.

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

I’m working on a series inspired by and built around the world of the Shidduch Crisis with a producer who expressed interest.

I’m also working on a feature film about an ultra-orthodox 34 year old woman finally taking matters into her own hands after realizing that the Shidduch system failed her. It’s raunchy, funny and deeply honest.

Lastly, I am working on a thriller-drama short film about a character hell-bent on revenge in the face of rising anti-semitism and holocaust denial.

So yes! God willing, many new projects!

Submit to the STUDENT Feedback Film Festival:

Filmmaker Karen Lang (TOLLERMANIA)

TOLLERMANIA, 27min,. Canada
Directed by Karen Lang
In this film, Ukrainian-Canadian ceramic artist, Natalia Laluq, interprets the life and work of Canadian world champion figure skater and artist, Toller Cranston, through a stop-motion installation of individually crafted ceramic plates. The art project itself was almost 2 years in the making. The show took place at Toller Cranston’s studio in Mexico in 2014, the year before Toller died. This documentary shows the work from initial concept through process and completion. It is one artist interpretation of another artist’s work and life.

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
There is brilliance in this artistic interpretation of sport. How the talents of a visual and ceramic artist can bring to life an actual skating performance of a world champion figure skater, is genius of mind and artistic talent. It is a project that had to be brought to a wider audience.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
The art show and installation happened in 2014. Toller Cranston, the object of this interpretive art installation died the following year. It wasn’t until 2020 that the idea of bringing the show to a larger audience began to germinate. Approximately 3 years were spent pulling the materials, film clips, interviews, etc together to make the film.

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

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
Trying to do justice to both artists was challenging. This was one artist’s interpretation of another artist’s life and work. Toller was a very famous Canadian skater, and a talented artist with a specific style and flare. Natalia, a Ukrainian Canadian immigrant, knew virtually nothing about Toller Cranston when she set out to do this project. She was able to creatively interpret and create a body of work that perfectly defined and celebrated Toller in his creative world. I like to think this film captures both of them as equally talented artists in their own right. This is a film that showcases Natalia’s talents within the context of Toller, a brilliant athlete and artist.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
I was struck by their specific observations and insight, and their appreciation of the talents of both Natalia and Toller. It was nice to know they actually watched it!!:)

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
I took a film making course about 7 years ago, and fell in love with the creative possibilities that film making provides. It gives meaning and permanence to events and stories in our lives. Creating the story,

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
That is too hard to choose:)

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
The feedback is by far the most helpful element to this festival experience, and it would be really incredible if more festivals did that.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
The platform makes it very easy to submit to festivals.

10. What is your favorite meal?
Tostados, served on a ceramic plate.

11. What is next for you? A new film?
I am going to be working with Toller Cranston’s sister, Philippa Baran, who has recently published a book about her brother – she is putting her talents and energy towards keeping Toller’s legacy alive. And of course, there are always adventures and travel that find their way into a film.

Submit to the WILDsound Film Festival:

Filmmaker Isaiah Matthew Griggs (ASHES – CHAPTER 0)

ASHES – CHAPTER 0, 4min., USA
Directed by Isaiah Matthew Griggs
In a mysterious facility, David, a captive, engineers his escape by tricking a guard. He evades pursuit through the building, discovering a lab and learning about his metahuman status. Outside the facility, he is captured by guards who mention his destructive potential. David wakes up in the lab, where his powers intensify and cause a powerful explosion. The short ends with David metaphysically floating in space, undergoing a transformative experience before unleashing a surge of energy.

https://twitter.com/genus_art
https://www.instagram.com/genus.entertainment/

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
My goal for Ashes is to fully produce it into an animated series at some point. I have A general outline for the series’ story.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
Well the idea for Ashes has been around in my google docs and has been featured in miscellaneous drawings and animations I’ve made for years. That being said, a proper episode or ‘chapter’, did not start getting made until 2022 and took a little over a year to finish with some help.

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

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
Probably compromising quality in favor of completing the film on time.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
I was quite glad they seemed to enjoy the anime-inspired action. I also like that one person pointed out that it feels like there’s more to the story, and believe me, there is definitely more.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
I’ve always liked to make. It honestly almost goes as far back as I can remember.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
Can’t say, I’m not sure. But I’ve definitely seen the Raimi Trilogy for Spider-Man a good amount, I’ve also watched “The Road to El Dorado” a lot on VHS.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
Nothing really comes to mind, I’m just glad people get to see the work I’ve made.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
Pretty good, it’s fairly straight forward.

10. What is your favorite meal?
lol pizza maybe

11. What is next for you? A new film?
I plan on making a follow up to this Ashes short.

Submit to the Chicago Feedback Film Festival:

Filmmaker Lisa Drupsteen (LIKE MOTHER)

LIKE MOTHER, 8min., Canada
Directed by Lisa Drupsteen
A young woman navigates her romantic life while trying her best to dodge her mother’s demons. Will she have the strength to break the cycle of manipulation? Or simply fall victim to the old adage: “Like Mother, Like Daughter”…

https://www.instagram.com/lisa_drupsteen

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

A short story I wrote while a student at The Second City Film School (formally the Harold Ramis Film School) featured a zany, narcissistic mother who named pets after loved ones. My peers were eager to learn more about this eccentric lady. I knew I had to explore the concept more deeply and bring it to life on the screen one day.

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

The adaptation took approximately 4 months. Could have been 2 weeks if I stopped putting it on the shelf to marinate…

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

Narcissistic mother!

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

Getting out of my own way. My previous project was higher budget and had more moving parts- I kept feeling anxious that this project wasn’t “enough”. Once I overcame those thoughts, the creativity could flow and I’m grateful I didn’t turn my back on it. Sometimes less is more!

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?

I was anxiously excited to press that play button! It has been a while since I’ve gotten public feedback on one of my pieces. It was extremely validating to hear the feedback and positive takeaways. I had a big smile plastered on my face the whole time.

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

When Covid hit and I could no longer perform live or write for the stage.

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

Hmmm. Either Mamma Mia, Singing in the Rain, or Bridesmaids. I’m a sucker for feel-good musicals/comedies.

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’d love some more critical feedback (constructive of course)! This audience was way too nice to me.

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

It’s been great! Although discovering the platform sure has put a dent in my wallet…so many amazing festivals, so little time.

10. What is your favorite meal?

My honey’s reverse-sear steak. Yum.

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

I’m currently working on polishing up my pilot script for a comedy series entitled “Triple Twenty” about a lost young woman who joins a C-division dart league in rural Canada.

Submit to the Chicago FEEDBACK Film Festival

Filmmaker Brenton McNally (HALCYON)

HALCYON, 7min,. Australia
Directed by Brenton McNally
David looks for his missing wife but struggles to get out of his own way.

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
Our film is based on an original story concept by my co-writer Nichola Christie. She was motivated by exploring the simultaneous beauty and heartache of time passing. The film explores how those we love leave impressions on us that stay and mould us beyond time. This film was shot with vintage 70s lenses and blends horror elements with a personal, dream-like drama film.

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

The film was completed, from conception, in less than 48 hours. It was in competition at the 48-hour film challenge in our city – Brisbane, Australia.

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

Melancholic mystery

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

Challenging ourselves to such a short amount of time to conceive and complete the film meant we needed to be deliberate with all of our choices. Writing in such a way as to take advantage of available actors and locations as well as shooting in an economical fashion were essential to the success of the film.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?

We were very pleased with the reactions in our feedback video. With a complicated and mysterious plot, it was great to know that the film was understood and received the way we intended.

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

As with most people, I have had a life-long interest in films. I mostly thought it was not feasible to make something worth watching until smartphones made it so easy to capture the images in my head. Making films with my kids showed me just how feasible all of it was and thus started the trajectory we are on now.

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

It would likely be a James Cameron film – Terminator 2 or True lies, probably. They were on repeat when I was a kid – taped off the TV when that was a thing.

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 wouldn’t suggest any changes. I have enjoyed the experience so far.

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

I find FilmFreeway very easy to use. It is a great concept.

10. What is your favorite meal?

Anything made by my partner – she is an excellent and creative cook.

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

Yes, we have a few projects in the works this year. Our next film will likely continue our theme of time and heartache but this time with a down-to-earth, personal, science fiction lens.

Submit to the Chicago FEEDBACK Film Festival: