CLEVELAND INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL – Through its heartfelt storytelling and nuanced performances, Lauren Melinda’s BEFORE YOU stands as a significant cinematic piece

BEFORE YOU, a short film written, directed, and produced by Lauren Melinda, delves into the profound emotional journey of a woman confronting the aftermath of terminating a pregnancy due to medical reasons. Based on true events, the narrative offers an intimate exploration of grief, resilience, and the complexities surrounding such a life-altering decision. ​ The film features compelling performances by Tala Ashe and Adam Rodriguez, who authentically … Continue reading CLEVELAND INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL – Through its heartfelt storytelling and nuanced performances, Lauren Melinda’s BEFORE YOU stands as a significant cinematic piece

Bianca Poletti’s VIDEO BARN – Surrealist Horror Short is Both Harrowing and Thought-Provoking

Directed by Argentinian filmmaker Bianca Poletti, the surrealist short Video Barn captures in just over ten minutes a haunting and twisted form of nostalgia where past and present collide. Starring Grace Van Dien and Reina Hardesty as best friends Julie and Hannah, employees at a local video store within the small town of Kennedy, the film takes a sinister turn when Julie discovers a VHS … Continue reading Bianca Poletti’s VIDEO BARN – Surrealist Horror Short is Both Harrowing and Thought-Provoking

SUNDANCE SPOTLIGHT: Interview with Spencer and Dylan Wardwell directors of SWEET TALKIN’ GUY

In this interview, director Spencer Wardwell and director/star Dylan Wardwell discuss their Sundance-selected short film Sweet Talkin’ Guy. How does it feel to be selected for Sundance? S: Without hyperbole, it’s a dream come true. Of course, when anybody makes a short or feature — their hope is to get into Sundance. Getting the call, then being able to immediately call up my sister (interrupting … Continue reading SUNDANCE SPOTLIGHT: Interview with Spencer and Dylan Wardwell directors of SWEET TALKIN’ GUY

OSCAR SPOTLIGHT: Interview with Hossein Molayemi & Shirin Sohani Directors of IN THE SHADOW OF THE CYPRESS

The short animated film In the Shadow of the Cypress written and directed by Hossein Molayemi and Shirin Sohani has received many international awards so far, including four Oscar-qualifying Best Animation prizes from Tribeca, Animayo, LA Shorts, and Spark Animation. What inspired the story of In the Shadow of the Cypress? Was there a particular experience or moment that led you to explore the theme of PTSD in such a personal and intimate way? In fact, … Continue reading OSCAR SPOTLIGHT: Interview with Hossein Molayemi & Shirin Sohani Directors of IN THE SHADOW OF THE CYPRESS

OSCAR SPOTLIGHT: Malin Ingrid Johansson’s DECK 5B is a stunning short that artfully examines the themes of longing and duty 

Malin Ingrid Johansson’s Deck 5B is a powerful exploration of the intricate balance between desire and responsibility, delivered through a poignant narrative that resonates deeply. Set against the backdrop of a ferry parking deck, the film introduces us to Mia (Alma Pöysti), a recently divorced mother embarking on a holiday with her son and her new love. What initially appears to be a lighthearted getaway … Continue reading OSCAR SPOTLIGHT: Malin Ingrid Johansson’s DECK 5B is a stunning short that artfully examines the themes of longing and duty