Ladies and gentlemen, in 1938, having left her Nunavut home with her mother Kumatna, young Marguerite must come to terms with her new life in the South and the unstated responsibilities that await her. When an extraordinary letter arrives from home, Marguerite discovers what’s really expected of her. Based on the director’s grandmother’s story, Lindsay McIntyre’s phenomenal film explores the historic tribulations suffered by one Inuit family and the lives they subsequently lead. This film and its story is one of determination, resilience and even love. The film is dramatic in tone and in story. The cinematography, the coloring and the music score synergistically dance together along with the dialogue to shows the audience, life isn’t easy, because you are different. Just like in America, our native brothers and sisters had to endure hardship from people who came from a far distance land. In this film, NIGIQTUG, Lindsey McIntyre shows us that not much as change since 1938. This film is reminder that as nations become more culturally diverse, at the end of the day all anyone wants is a better life, a better education, and a better opportunity. About the Guest Director Lindsay McIntyre, an award-winning filmmaker of Inuit and mixed settler descent who works primarily with analogue film exploring place-based knowledge, portraiture, and personal histories. Having made over 40 short films over the past 20 years, she is currently developing her first feature THE WORDS WE CAN’T SPEAK, which won the coveted Women in the Director’s Chair Feature Film Award and is connected to the award-winning short The South Wind. She is a Fellow of the Sundance Institute, Forge Projects and Cousin Collective and is a member of several artist-run film labs. She is an Associate Professor of Film + Screen Arts at Emily Carr University of Art + Design on unceded Coast Salish territory in Vancouver, Canada. #NIGIQTUG #shortfilms #shortfilm #oscars #academyawards #inuits #canada #filmmakers #filmmaking #filmdirector #screemwriter #cinema #cinematography #sundance #vancouver #northwestterritory

Ladies and gentlemen, MOTHERLAND is set in 1979 at the height of the Iran Hostage Crisis, writer-director Jasmin Mozaffari’s film follows Babak, a young Iranian immigrant, who calls into question his future prospects in America after he embarks on a trip to meet his fiancé’s parents. The political social climate in America was still a bit raw from the end of the Vietnam War, then in 1979, the Shah of Iran, a friend of the United States was overthrown and then the Iran Hostage Crisis becomes headlines news for 444 days. MOTHERLAND is inspired by the story of Jasmin’s father who married an Albertan during this tumultuous period in American and Iranian history. The film is powerful and compelling, and captures the emotion of that time period of Iranian immigrants in America dealing with the backlash of the Iranian Hostage Crisis. Everything about this film is a reason why every entertainment magazine is naming MOTHERLAND one of the films to watch this Oscar season. Jasmin Mozaffari is a visionary filmmaker who brings stunning visual artistry to the silver screen with powerful storytelling. The casting was perfection and I can say this again and again, one of only a handful of short films this year that have Oscar written all over it. #motherland #motherlandfilm #shortfilms #iranhostagecrisis #1979 #filmmakers #filmmaking #filmdirector #cinema #cinematography #cinephile #screenwriter #discrimination #america #oscars #academyawards 

Ladies and gentlemen, DOVECOTE explores prison life and its aftermath. Filmed inside Guidecca's working women's prison on an island in the Venetian lagoon, the carefully constructed script of this delicate and spiritual experience of a short film starring Zoe Saldaña, vividly recreates the final hours before her release, while examining the emotional realities faced by her fellow prisoners (portrayed by 20 actual inmates of the prison).  This film is a visual experience for the eyes, an audible experience for the ears and a spiritual experience for your soul. The fluid motion of the cinematography provided by Javier Julia takes us on a tour behind the walls of the prison. The motion gives you the feeling of an out of body experience that is rarely captured on film. The editing is so seamless you will believe the whole film was one long continuous shot and editor Andrew Leven provided his masterful touch on this film. The beautiful music score provided by Sebastian Kauderer just multiples the cinematic experience and the spiritual motion and emotion of this film. Craig Mann provided the incredible sound mixing and again, it’s a spiritual experience for the ears. We must showcase the incredible talent of actresses Zoe Saldana, Marcello Fonte, Gaia Scodellaro and Marilena Anniballi. DOVECOTE was created by the stellar team with Producer Enzo Sisti, First AD Lorenzo De Nicola, Line Producer Fabrizio Cerato and DP, Lorenzo Sisti. Thank you Marco Perego, Alexander Dinelaris and Michael Cerenzie for sharing this beautiful film with me today. Much success to all of you in your journey to the Oscars. #dovecote #oscars #academyawards #Venice #masterclass #cinema #cinematic #cinematography #cinephile #filmmakers #filmmaking #filmdirector #screenwriter #guidecca #italy #zoesaldana

Ladies and gentlemen, Jack Cooper Stimpson’s Oscar-qualifying short SPIRIT OF PLACE, Athel and Edward enjoy visiting the wetlands. It offers them a sense of escape and much needed respite from life in the city. Edward likes watching the birds, whilst Athel seems to enjoy what the environment gives her emotionally. This is a place they both rely on. But, when Athel discovers an ancient artifact in the water, she is forced to reexamine her entire relationship with this place she loves. A meditation on access to nature, identity and even Wellington boots. The cinematography of this short film is beautiful. The colors are vibrant and airy. Giving you the feeling of the freshness of being outdoors and being one with nature. The use of the sun flares and the natural sounds of nature move us along the story of Edward, Athel and the man standing in the water. It’s beautiful film with a beautiful and poignant story of getting a fresh perspective of self-discovery. Jack Cooper Stimpson, who is an award-winning writer, director and environmental campaigner from South London. He trained with the National Youth Theatre of Great Britain and has since written and directed numerous features, short films and pieces for TV. In 2018, Jack wrote, directed and produced ‘Alex’s Dream’, starring Alex Lawther and Emma Corrin. The following year, he wrote and directed the political satire ‘Extinction’, starring Academy Award winner Emma Thompson. Jack developed ‘Extinction’ into a six-part series for BBC Studios and directed his first feature-length project, ‘Way Down Bundy’, in Los Angeles for No Good Films. #oscars #academyawards #shortfilms #filmmaking #filmmakers #filmdirector #cinema #cinematography #wetlands #friendship #discovery #selfdiscovery #screenwriter #london #england 

Ladies and gentlemen, 1 in 4 people in the UK suffer from mental health problems, with a particular spike in young women. Only 1 in 3 affected are actively seeking treatment. What exactly grief does to the human body and mind isn’t fully understood yet. It’s an experience everybody goes through at some point in their lives and even though we all do, we often do so alone. Prolonged grief disorder is a persistent and disabling form of grief and a fairly unexplored condition. Diary of a Ghost delves into the poignant odyssey of Sage, a young woman grappling with the profound loss of her first love, Riley. A year after his passing, Sage retreats into isolation within her grandmother's house, where eccentric behaviors and an immersive diary paint a portrait of her struggle. In this self-imposed seclusion, the diary becomes a portal to an imaginary realm where Riley's ghost persists, a manifestation of Sage's pain. But the diary's pages are linked to a deadline—once the final chapter is written, Riley will depart, forcing Sage to face an unaltered reality. As she battles her own constructed world, the arrival of her estranged friend Hailey adds a new dimension to Sage's emotional turmoil. Diary of a Ghost explores the impact of grief on the human psyche, delving into the universal yet uniquely personal experience of silently dealing with pain, scars, and the quiet struggle for acceptance. Director Carrie Hajny who has with a particular interest in portraying narratives that explore the themes of coming of age, human connection and mental health in film. Her first short film LAST DANCE premiered at the 2019 Underwire Film Festival in London where it was nominated for best U25 production. Since then, her visually distinct style has led to collaborations with brands and artists such as Puma, Tinder, Dua Lipa, Red Bull Racing, Barbour and Amazon. #shortfilms #redbullracing #amazon #puma #dualipa #tinder #grief #suicideawareness #griefcounseling #counseling #imagination #imaginary #diary #mentalhealth #mentalillness #cinema #cinematography #storytelling #filmdirector 

Ladies and gentlemen, MUSCAT was inspired by a story told to Grenier by his grandmother, with the ending of the film mirroring the heartbreaking travel experience of her distant cousin. The Philippe found it necessary to tell the story through the fictional character of Samir, a young homosexual boy coming to terms with his sexuality in a country where gay individuals are still harshly persecuted. Philippe Grenier, as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, recognizes his privilege, living in a country where he is free to love whoever he wants and feels it is his goal to bring more divisive stories such as MUSCAT to the screen and to defend the rights of the LGTBQIA+ community. The cinematography of MUSCAT is very cinematic and the colorization from scene to scene moves with grace and adds to the telling the story of Samir, who struggles with his sexuality in a community that frowns upon homosexuality. Many people around the world can truly relate to Samir’s struggles of identity and seeks the freedom to live beyond his current location. Philippe Grenier, known as a director of Premier Trio’s TV series broadcasted on Radio-Canada - for which he won the Gémeaux Award for Best Directing and Best Youth Program in 2024. #shortfilms #oscars #academyawards #muscat #LGBTQ #identity #morocco #canadian #cinema #filmmakers #filmmaking #screenwriter #cinematography #storytelling 

My guest today is actor Arkie Kandola, who stars in two TV series that have premiered this fall --- Natasha Rothwell’s How to Die Alone on Hulu and Chicken Sisters on Hallmark’s rebranded streaming platform. The Canadian-born actor and producer, first appeared on screen in 2013 after being featured in a national Vitamin Water commercial alongside Steve Nash. He subsequently established a YouTube channel which has garnered over 22 million views. Arkie has amassed credits in film & television including Fox's “Prison Break,” Freeform's “Siren,” CBS's “The Twilight Zone,” NBC's “Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist,” the award-winning comedy “Our Big Punjabi Family” and Universal's feature film, “Easter Sunday” with Jo Koy. In addition to acting, Arkin Kandola is also a Partner at BMA Films, alongside Brandon Jay Mclaren & Max Topplin. The trio are in development with their first feature "The Book," which is a Canada-India co-production. #punjabi #indian #india #canada #HULU #streaming #actor #filmproducer #filmmaking #filmmakers #cinema #acting #actorslife #thetwilightzone #NBC #fox #freeform #hallmark #lifetime 

Ladies and gentlemen, director Amir Zargara’s Oscar-qualified short, A GOOD DAY WILL COME is the heartbreaking story of Arash, a professional wrestler with dreams of representing his country and winning gold medals. The country is in turmoil and its people are suffering. Arash must decide between using his platform to stand up to tyranny, or put his head down and remain silent.   This incredible film was inspired by real events and is dedicated to Navid Afkari, an Iranian wrestler who was sentenced to death and executed after a wrongful conviction during the 2018 Iranian protests. Afkari once said “Our only power lies in our united voice.” A GOOD DAY WILL COME’s cinematography is one of excellence. The casting was perfect, the location gives you the sense that you are in Iran. The coloring is cold and lifeless which is what it should be to signify life under a tyrannical regime. The only way to bring life back into the lives living under such a regime would be to spill blood. Even though Amir chose not to show the torture scenes, you do feel the brutality through the use of the audio and he gives us the glimpse of the aftermath of that torture. Freedom comes at a price and those who pay the price have chosen to spill their own blood so we can all be free. A GOOD DAY WILL COME, the very words we must hold close and believe in our heart that in many places in the world, a good day will come. Amir Zargara, an Iranian-Canadian writer and director, whose unique perspective is shaped by the cultural mosaic of Iran and Canada. His journey, characterized by the resilience of an immigrant and the challenges of living with a stutter, deeply influences his approach to filmmaking. His films delve into the moral complexities faced by individuals, focusing on the gray areas of human character and advocating for empathy over judgment. His latest film A GOOD DAY WILL COME has qualified to be considered for the 2025 Academy Awards.  #shortfilms #shortfilm #oscars #academyawards #interview #talkshow #filmbreakdown #filmreview #wrestling #sports #Iran #filmmaking #filmmakers #filmdirector #screenswriter #cinema #cinematography

Ladies and gentlemen, SUPERMAN DOESN’T STEAL is an emotional coming-of-age story set during the 1970s Atlanta Child Murders. The film takes us through the eyes of 8-year-old Harriet, who is as fascinated with superheroes as is her older brother Jackson. However, when they experience a troubling series of events that impact their family, leaving emotional scars and causing them both to grow up fast, they must redefine their definitions of heroes, villains, themselves- and yes- even Superman. This short film, SUPERMAN DOESN’T STEAL for me is finding the hidden jewel amongst the hundreds of Oscar-qualified films this season. If you haven’t seen it you have got to see it. I encourage all the Academy members to take a serious look at this film. The storyline brings so much for us to explore. I call it perfection. The cinematography captures the 1979 time period to again, perfection. Not one detail was missed and being one who was born in Atlanta, the location and decor took me back to my own grandparents home. I’m from the Dunwoody area of Atlanta, so the moment I saw the homes, I was back in the 70s again. I will say it again and again, SUPERMAN DOESN’T STEAL is the hidden jewel in the midst of the Oscar-qualified chaos. I loved every single minute of it. About the Guest Writer/director and filmmaker extraordinaire, Tamika Lamison graduated from the American University, Howard University and is an AFI alum of the prestigious Directing Workshop for Women. She was a research consultant at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, prior to being tapped as the Executive Director of the Commercial Directors Diversity Program - a DEI program she built for the DGA & AICP.  She has won numerous honors, awards and fellowships including IFP’s Gordon Parks indie film award, ABC/Disney Screenwriting Fellowship, CBS Director’s initiative and others. Tamika has produced 4 Award winning shorts and over 100 short docs via MAFF. She was also a writer and supervising producer for the television show “Monogamy”. #superman #atlantachildmurders #shortfilms #shortfilm #oscars #academyawards #screenwriter #filmdirector #filmmakers #filmmaking #atlanta #childhood #parenting #comicbooks

Ladies and gentlemen, the Oscar-qualified short, THE HEART OF TEXAS is about an aspiring country singer Janie May (Lauren Noll) who races to the studio after her overnight diner shift when she collides with an undocumented worker — changing the course of both their futures. This is a film in the art of storytelling. Mirroring the lives of two people who are chasing the American dream, one an aspiring singer dreaming of stardom and an undocumented worker whose dream is to provide a better life for his family who is still living in Mexico. Their lives collide, leaving one dying to make it and the other dying to survive. This film is compelling, tense and heartbreaking. 13 minutes and 56 seconds that will leave you on the edge of seat and your heart in your hands. Writer/director Gregory Kasunich and producer/co-writer and actress Lauren Noll and their powerful and compelling Oscar-qualified short THE HEART OF TEXAS. Director and co-writer Gregory JM Kasunich is an award winning filmmaker. His body of work includes projects for Taylor Swift, The Pentatonix, The Summer Set, DreamWorks, Disney, Lucas Film and many others. His editorial and portrait photography has been published in several publications. His films have been nominated and awarded in festivals all over the world. Lead actress, co-writer and producer Lauren Noll is a filmmaker with a Master’s Degree in Acting from Harvard University. Her curiosity around other roles in filmmaking led her to write, direct, and star in her first award-winning short film, HONOR in 2020, a personal drama about the encounter of a queer student with Brigham Young University’s honor code office. She followed that filmmaking debut with GEN V, CLEAN SLATE, which was awarded a grand jury prize at the Collaboration Filmmakers Challenge, and THE HEART OF TEXAS, which has won over 20 awards. #shortfilms #shortfilm #oscars #academyawards #americandream #landofopportunity #filminterview #filmreview #filmbreakdown #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmdirector #actress #immigrant #musician 

Ladies and gentlemen, Malin Ingrid Johansson’s Swedish short film drama DECK 5B tells a heart-rending tale about a mother torn between duty and desire. We meet recently divorced Mia, portrayed by award winning actress Alma Pöysti, along with her son, as she heads for her first holiday together with her new love, but complications soon arise when Mia’s yearning to relax and let her hair down comes into conflict with her parental responsibilities. This gripping short premiered at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival where it claimed the Best International Short Film award, thereby qualifying it for the 2025 Academy Awards. The storyline and the cinematography causes you to focus solely on the relationship of the mother and the son. We are draw into both of their emotions, and the dilemma of the mother. The cinematography and the coloring play a part in this film as it does seem a bit cool and drab, as the relationship being the mother and son is not exactly a happy one. The mother tries to bring joy, but the son reminds her of his disapproval in both words, action and emotion. DECK 5B is a must see short film and it has all the elements that make it worthy of being Oscar-qualified.  #oscars #academyawards #Sweden #Swedishfilm #ferryboat #filmmaking #filmdirector #filmdirector #screenwriter #divorcedmother #singlemom #relationship #vacation #parentalresponsibility

Ladies and gentlemen, the untold story of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. as the world teeters on the brink of annihilation, Bonhoeffer is swept into the epicenter of a deadly plot to assassinate Hitler. With his faith and fate at stake, Bonhoeffer must choose between upholding his moral convictions or risking it all to save millions of Jews from genocide. Will his shift from preaching peace to plotting murder alter the course of history or cost him everything? BONHOEFFER comes to a theater near you on November 22nd and this is a must see film. We need more films like this one that showcases men and women who will stand up and face adversity. We can all learn something of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and maybe one of those questions we should all ask ourselves, “Where is your finish line?” About the Guest Todd Komarnicki is a prolific writer, producer and director of film and television as well as an acclaimed novelist. Todd's screenplays include Sully directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Tom Hanks, which opened at #1 in the box office to rave reviews from critics and audiences alike. The film went on to earn over $240 million worldwide, and was a 2016 AFI Top Ten Film. The Professor and the Madman, starring Mel Gibson and Sean Penn. Komarnicki has also written Perfect Stranger starring Bruce Willis and Halle Berry. Todd Komarnicki and Guy Walks partnered with Jon Berg to produced the Christmas blockbuster Elf, starring Will Ferrell and directed by Jon Favreau, which has become a yearly Christmas movie favorite. Todd is here to talk about pastor-turned-spy Dietrich Bonhoeffer. This untold story about a man as the world teeters on the brink of annihilation, Bonhoeffer is swept into the epicenter of a deadly plot to assassinate Hitler. The film debuts during Thanksgiving this year. #bonhoeffer #newfilm #filmbreakdown #featurefilm #anglestudios #filmmaking #filmmaker #filmdirector #filmproduction #belgium #ireland #WWII #drama #pastor #spy 

Ladies and gentlemen, TJ O’Grady-Peyton’s short ROOM TAKEN follows Isaac, who, in a desperate need for a place to stay, finds an unexpected answer to his temporary homelessness when he takes refuge in the home of Victoria, an elderly blind woman, without her knowledge. As these two strangers coexist, a touching and unexpected bond forms between the unlikely pair. I can see why this film is a multi-award winning short film. The cinematography is excellent and gives you the true reality of both characters lives. Composer Jamal Green sees beyond the characters and brings forth a rhythmic music score that dances between two different worlds that collide out of an unknown need for each other. ROOM TAKEN is one of the most endearing and beautiful stories I’ve seen this year and actually left a happy tear in my eyes. Keep your eye on this Oscar-qualified short film. Director TJ O’Grady-Peyton, an Irish filmmaker who first gained recognition at the Young Director Awards at Cannes in 2013. He has received awards at prestigious festivals and films have been showcased at Tribeca, Clermont-Ferrand, BFI London, and on Disney+ and The New Yorker. His short film WAVE won an Irish Film and Television Award in 2018 and SILENCE earned a nomination in 2021. TJ’s newest short film, the beautiful and endearing ROOM TAKEN tackles pressing themes including the challenges faced by asylum seekers and the rising homelessness population in Ireland. Not only that but it also shines a light on the growing epidemic of isolation and loneliness in the elderly communities, especially those that may find that their independence is being threatened, by old age or disability. ROOM TAKEN has been selected for over 39 Film Festivals, and has won 10 awards, including “Best Irish Short Film” at the Dublin International Film Festival, and nominated for “Best International Short Film” and “Grand Prix Irish Short Film” at Flickerfest and the Cork International Film Festival. This poignant short has qualified to be considered for the 2025 Academy Awards after winning “Best Short Film” at the 2024 Cleveland International Film Festival.  #oscars #academyawards #shortfilms #shortfilm #roomtaken #ireland #immigration #elderly #interview #filmbreakdown #filmreview #filmmaking #filmmakers #filmdirector #cinema #cinematography #Cannes #BFILondon #Dublin #corkireland #flickerfest #filmfestivals 

Ladies and gentlemen, in an homage to everything 1990’s, TEA asks the audience to take a step back to simpler times; where the summer days were long, the cool kids were terrifying and saying “hi” to the girl of your dreams was beyond insurmountable. This dramedy short film TEA takes us through the eyes of Nicholaus Steep (played by Michael Gandolfini), we watch the tenderness and bravery of a young man who is doing all he can just to connect with someone. When his bad luck turns worse, will the girl of his dreams (played by Olivia Nikkanen) will she be able to save his life? This film will take all of us back to the time we asked someone out on a date, our first date most likely. Some of us are shy, insecure, nervous, but somehow the experience isn’t always fun or enjoyable. For us guys, just getting someone to say yes feels like we just made it to the top of Mt. Everest. TEA is a wonderful film. A short filmed in one location, gives us the look and feel of real film. The story is to the point adding in youth, the pursuit of young love, it’s endearing, and all of that disrupted by a hornet’s sting. Who knew that an EPI-pen could not only save the day, but bring Nicholaus’ crush into his life. In a world of worry, insecurity and a lack of confidence and courage, we need to heed the words of Olivia, “That wasn’t so hard was it?” About the Guest Writer/director Blake Winston Rice, an award-winning director who launched his professional directing and screenwriting career in 2018 with the film TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, which was acquired by DirectTV. Follow up projects included PEOPLE LIKE YOU, where he received Best Director at the New York City International Film Festival in 2019. Soon after, he directed THE CREEPERS CURSE, and THE RECOVERY CALL, both licensed by Prime Video in 2020. After numerous short films over the past few years, he brings us the endearing dramedy, TEA. The short premiered at the Cannes Film Festival as the only U.S. film. It has qualified for Best Short Film at the Nashville Film Festival, as well as Woodstock, Palm Springs and HollyShorts Film Festivals. It is now Oscar-qualified for the 2025 Academy Awards. #oscars #academyawards #cannes #shortfilms #shortfilm #filmmakers #filmmaking #filmdirector #filmproduction #screenwriting #lovestory #dating #relationship #filmfestival

Ladies and gentlemen, MEAL TICKET is an anxiety-filled  thriller about a manager: Saint, who is forced to decide what to do with life-changing news he receives about his client: a young hip hop star, twelve minutes before goes onstage for his debut tour. In this world we all seek opportunity, but what if your meal ticket was threatening your big break or your current job? Will you do what is morally right or will you protect your opportunity of future success? Wes Andre Goodrich gives us a poignant short film to ask ourselves this important question. This film leaves the audience choosing sides and that’s the power of film. Is there a right or wrong answer here? Only you can decide that when you see this Oscar-qualified film for yourself. Brooklyn-based writer/director Wes Andre Goodrich. Last year he was on the festival circuit with two shorts: SPEAK UP BROTHA! and PALM SUNDAY. He recently directed the short film MEAL TICKET for Hillman Grad’s Rising Voices Fellowship, which premiered at the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival and was part of the official selection at HollyShorts. Wes was selected by Filmmaker Magazine as one of the 2023 New Faces of Film. MEAL TICKET was made as part of Indeed’s Rising Voices program - an initiative set up to discover, invest in and share stories created by BIPOC filmmakers and storytellers. Rising Voices was created in collaboration with Lena Waithe, Hillman Grad Productions, Ventureland and 271 Films. #shortfilms #shortfilm #oscars #academyawards #morality #opportunity #hiphop #performer #cinema #cinematography #storytelling #screenwriter #risingvoices 

Writer/director Jamie Benyon and his BAFTA and BIFA-qualified short film TWO MINUTES. His screenplays have won the IMDb Script To Screen Award, Top 10% on the Coverfly comedy short film list, been shortlisted for BBC Comedy Writers Programme, and a semi-finalist in the Shore Short Script Competition, a quarter-finalist in the Screencraft Fellowship and Top 40 at the UK Film Festival. Jamie Benyon’s short titled TWO MINUTES, is an endearing short film comedy and I love it. Starring Ted Lasso’s Annette Badland, and Samuel Bottomley from How to Have Sex and Sundown as well as Ashley Margolis from Brassic and Silent Witness. TWO MINUTES won First Prize for Best Comedy Short Film at Flickers Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Best British Comedy at Discover Film Festival. It's also an official selection at this years BFI London Film Festival, as well as premiering in Canada at the Oscar qualifying Edmonton International Film Festival along with many BIFA qualifying films across the UK. Ladies and gentlemen, Jamie Benyon’s anxiety-filled endearing short film TWO MINUTES left me wanting more and more. Following the death of their Grandfather, two brothers decide to rob a convenience store in which they have two minutes to grab what they can before the police arrives. But their Nan unexpectedly walks by creating more tension during their attempted heist. Everyone who has the opportunity to see this film will fall in love with TWO MINUTES. All I want to see is more of these three characters as I think there is either a streaming series or a feature film within this film. Could Nan become a ringleader in a family-based crime syndication of bubbling wannabe robbers? Only Jamie Benyon knows the answer to that. #shortfilms #shortfilm #comedy #BAFTA #BIFA #BFILondon #interview #filmbreakdown #caper #filmmakers #filmmaking #filmdirector #screenwriter #awardwinning #cinema #cinematography #family

Ladies and gentlemen, GOOD DAUGHTER is a short film about a small-time con artist ripping off elderly dementia patients by pretending to be their daughter - until the con catches up with her. They say you can’t con a con until the con becomes overwhelming and learning the con is starting to con you. GOOD DAUGHTER has all the elements of the makings of a feature film as I want to see more of Samantha Sloyan’s character Rebecca. So much more to explore here and it seems we will all soon see it play out. Film director Rachel Annette Helson's  feature film directing credits include "The Engagement Dress”, "How to Live Your Best Death" and "The Girl in the Window”. Her 2019 short film "Hatched" played at festivals across the US, and in recognition of her work, she was named a New Director to Watch by Shoot Online Magazine. As a character-driven director, Rachel is heavily influenced by her acting background. Select credits include: "Full Circle" directed by Steven Soderbergh, "The Knick," "Law & Order: SVU," and the Netflix film "The Polka King”. She also holds the distinction of being the Youngest Producer in Broadway history to be Nominated for a Tony Award for her work on Neil LaBute's "Reasons to be Pretty".  Her 2023 short film "Good Daughter" starring Samantha Sloyan from "Midnight Mass” and "Grey's Anatomy" and written by Jesse Harris of Marvel's "Jessica Jones" played as an Official Selection of HollyShorts, Centre Film Festival and Catalina Film Festival (Best Actress Nomination, Samantha Sloyan) and is being developed into a feature to be shot in 2025. Her Oscar-qualified short film GOOD DAUGHTER, a small-time con artist rips off elderly dementia patients by pretending to be their daughter - until the con catches up with her. #oscars #academyawards #shortfilms #shortfilm #conman #writer #filmmakers #filmmaking #filmdirector #screenwriter #motherdaughter #alzheimers #dementia #filmfestivals

Ladies and gentlemen, SUNFLOWER was inspired by the true story of Danuta Górecka, Mateusz Balcerek’s grandmother. This film tells a gripping and inspirational story of a family’s perseverance in the face of unspeakable violence. In a war-torn country, young Danuta and her family play a dangerous game of hide-and-seek with soldiers. Amidst the chaos, Danuta finds comfort and hope in a sunflower that connects her back with her loved ones. Set in 1944 Poland ravaged by war, this beautiful short captures the vulnerability of a child lost in the violence of war and the beauty that exists in the smallest things — such as a sunflower, which symbolized not just survival but acted as a thread that tied her back to her loved ones. The film has qualified for the 2025 Academy Awards. SUNFLOWER is an incredibly beautiful short film. The cinematography has a beauty that stands out among many of the Oscar-qualified films this year. The story moves from frame to frame with grace, yet captures the tenseness and sadness of the realities of war. To keep this film as authentic as possible, 1940s Poland songs were used, but the sound mixing and sound editing is one of the best I have heard in any short film. Nothing was missed in the creation of this film SUNFLOWER. It absolutely deserves to be Oscar-qualified and only time will tell to see if this beautiful film makes the shortlist. Polish filmmaker Mateusz Balcerek is a Forbes 30 Under 30 lister, is known for blending deeply personal stories with universal themes. As the Founder of Sounds Better Productions, with offices in London, Warsaw, and LA, he leads the company in producing premium content across scripted series, feature films, and unscripted shows. His previous work includes the Spectrum TV documentary "Cerro Gordo" in 2020, along with professional experience at Norman Lear’s Act III Productions and Bob Shaye’s Unique Features. #oscars #academyawards #polish #poland #shortfilms #drama #wardrama #WW2 #filmmakers #filmmaking #filmdirector #cinema #cinematography #filmcomposer #soundmixing #filmcolorist #sunflower

Learn how to create a suspenseful short film like "Infidelity" with AJ Babbra! This video covers the themes of stalking, infidelity, and cheating in a short film format. Perfect for aspiring filmmakers looking to create gripping content! Writer/Director Ajitpal Babbra a London based filmmaker. Primarily a writer/director, he has also produced several short films over the last few years. He seeks to create meaningful stories and characters he can share with the world. As of 2024, his films have been showcased at various film festivals around the world and have won multiple awards. He seeks to continue to collaborate with talented individuals in the future and to grow his filmography. His newest short film the multi-award winning INFIDELITY is a twisted suspense thriller where a man hires a private investigator when he suspects infidelity. AJ takes us through the story of Daniel and Scarlett, with feelings of suspense, adding in twists to the story that come forward at the right time. He never gives the complete story away, which allows the audience to enjoy the ride without ever figuring out the full story until the climatic end. #shortfilms #shortfilm #suspense #thriller #suspensethriller #drama #storytelling #film #cinema #filmmakers #filmmaking #filmdirector #cinematography #screenwriter #stalking #infidelity #cheating #girlfriend #privateinvestigator #cinephile 

Ladies and gentlemen, this brilliant short film I’M NOT A ROBOT is a multi-Oscar-qualified film, a very rare feat to accomplish. I loved everything about this film. The cinematography makes you feel as if you are watching a full length feature film. Actress Ellen Parren gives a stellar performance as the ‘is she human or is she a robot’ Lara. Her emotional confusion and frustration can be seen and felt throughout the film. I can’t wait to see more of her on screen. This is a film in which you must keep a watchful eye and ear to everything that happens to Lara. There are clues of her origin, or maybe those clues are there to throw us off track. Either way, I’M NOT A ROBOT is a brilliant ride and I will be the first in line if this film becomes a feature film. The ending is open to interpretation, and that’s the beauty of a short film. Let the audience decide how the film ends or how it should end. This is a film that creates conversation long after the film is over. #oscars #academyawards #robot #humanoid #hybrid #captcha #filmmakers #filmmaking #filmdirector #filmproducer #filmproduction #Belgium #cinephile #cinema #cinematography #shortfilms

My guests today are director Julia Elihu, screenwriter and lead actress Ava Lalezarzadeh and producer Aaron Lemie and their Oscar-qualified short film IN THE GARDEN OF TULIPS. Ladies and gentlemen, the pulsating drama IN THE GARDEN OF TULIPS is set on a beautiful spring day in 1988 on the looming backdrop of the Iran-Iraq war. The film follows sixteen year old Caroline as she takes her last car journey with her father to the Iranian countryside, where a new future awaits her. This beautiful, tension-filled short has qualified for the 2025 Oscars for winning “Best Live Action Short Film” at the St. Louis International Film Festival. The story is based on Ava Lalezarzadeh mother’s own journey. It’s a story that resonated deeply with those who have endured religious persecution. IN THE GARDEN OF TULIPS is a beautiful film. The cinematography, a mixture of 16mm film and digital which blend so very well.  The acting is stellar with great and deep emotion and you feel every scene and every moment. But the importance of this film is the story of a father and daughter. This compelling, emotional and moving film is a story of the utmost importance of millions around the world who are not able to worship freely. Religious persecution is real and even today governments are threatened by those who worship a God more powerful than they. We need more films and stories like this one to keep moving humanity forward. #oscars #academyawards #shortfilms #garden #tulips #filmdirector #filmproducer #screenwriter #filmmakers #filmmaking #cinema #cinematography #filmbreakdown #filmreview 

Ladies and gentlemen, The Last Ranger is an incredibly compelling, heart stopping and heart breaking short film. It teaches us many things about life. We have been called to steward, amplify and enjoy creation on Earth. We’ve been the keepers of the gate since the days of Adam and Eve, but we’ve left the gate open to poachers. THE LAST RANGER is a multi-award winning film and Oscar-qualified for good reason. The most important element of this film is that it reaches to the very depths of our soul and shows you again, how precious life is, animal and human. For example, rhinos are facing extinction with about 16,800 white rhinos and 6400 black rhinos left in the world. There are only two northern white rhinos remaining. Poaching in South Africa rose by 900% between 2009 & 2013. 1,349 rhinos were killed that year and they were placed on the endangered species list. On average one rhino is poached every day. Over a ten year period, 1,000 rangers have lost their lives protecting them. About the Guests David S. Lee has appeared in blockbuster projects such as GEOSTORM, GET SMART, BLACK PANTHER and BLOOD DIAMOND. On television he has been in THE BOYS, NIKITA, LOST, N.C.I.S and THE LIBRARIANS. He is the Executive Producer, Actor, Story & Co-writer of The Last Ranger, playing the part of Robert in this stunning film. Darwin Shaw is co-founder of When The World Stopped and Producer/Co-Writer of The Last Ranger. He can be seen in a variety of feature films, including CASINO ROYALE, PRINCE OF PERSIA, PROMETHEUS, SON OF GOD, JOHN CARTER, and notably played Saint Peter in the Emmy-nominated television series, THE BIBLE. Will Hawkes is also co-producer and writer of The Last Ranger and has worked as an actor and director for over 10 years with TV roles in GRIMM, BIG LITTLE LIES, THE POLITICIAN, and HOLLYWOOD. His film credits include the indy hits SUN VALLEY,  FIRST COMES LIKE, and DEVIL'S HOLLOW. #oscars #academyawards #parkrangers #endangeredspecies #poaching #poachers #jamesbond #casinoroyale #prometheus #sonofgod #grimm #biglittlelies #hollywood #geostorm #blooddiamond #blackpanther #getsmart #film #shortfilms #cinema #africa #africansafari #safari #cinematography #filmmakers #filmmaking #filmdirector #cinephile 

Ladies and gentlemen, Jean Liu’s vividly haunting short film CORPSE FISHING explores grief and longing in a marginalized community. Set in southern China, this mysterious short follows a despairing girl named Yan as she strikes a deal with a stranger to go fishing for bodies in a desperate attempt to find her missing father. This incredible story is inspired by ‘body fishermen’ in China who scan the river looking for cadavers, which they then sell back to grieving families. The cinematography of CORPSE FISHING is worthy to Oscar shortlisted and even nominated. The cool gray coloring of the film adds to the story. The dialogue between Yan and the corpse fisherman is something you want to pay attention too as it tells a deeper story of Yan’s grief, her loneliness and a desire to either find her family or find a new family. CORPSE FISHING is a must see short film and one of the best films in this year’s run up to the Academy Awards. I would definitely keep an eye on this one. About the Guest Jean Liu, a filmmaker from the UK and China. She specializes in telling stories about personalities and subcultures that put a highly individual stamp on issues of broader interest. Her portrait-style films have been featured at SXSW, Slamdance and numerous other film festivals around the world. Jean Liu’s vivid short CORPSE FISHING explores grief and longing in a marginalized community. The short film follows a despairing girl who strikes a deal with a stranger to go fishing for bodies in a desperate attempt to find her missing father. This film was presented at the Tribeca Film Festival and was part of the official selection at HollyShorts, and was made as part of Indeed’s Rising Voices program - an initiative set up to discover, invest in and share stories created by BIPOC filmmakers and storytellers. #oscars #academyawards #filminterview #bodyfishermen #corpsefishing #china #filmbreakdown #filmmakers #filmmaking #filmdirector #filmfestival #HollyShorts #tribeca #BIPIC #RisingVoices #grief #loneliness #family 

Ladies and gentlemen, Kevin and Kelly Luu’s Oscar-qualifying short film TECHNICIANS, explore themes of automation and job replacement. The story follows David played by actor J. Alphonse Nicholson, a struggling automation technician tasked with installing self-service manicure stations at a nail salon, where he meets a Vietnamese American nail tech Tippi played by Cathy Bui whose job is under threat.  This film is a must see short film. Every one of us can relate to the story and the characters. For you ladies out there, you may find yourself supporting your local nail salon even more, because there will always be something very special about small conversation with strangers and even a bit of human touch that can keep humanity intact and in harmony. About the Guests Kevin and Kelly Luu are a writer-director duo were inspired by their parents’ harrowing journey to America. The twin brothers are drawn to stories that explore identity from the perspectives of under-represented voices. They wrote and directed several award-winning short films, including REAL BOY, which won best Sci-Fi film at USC’s First Look Festival, and THE MATTRESS, which received the SCA Edward Small Directing Award and was invited to premiere at the Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival. The brother’s newest film explore themes of automation and job replacement in the Oscar-qualifying short TECHNICIANS. The story follows David, a struggling automation technician tasked with installing self-service manicure stations at a nail salon, where he meets a Vietnamese American nail tech Tippi whose job is under threat.  This film was presented at the Tribeca Film Festival, was part of the official selection at HollyShorts, and was made as part of Indeed’s Rising Voices program - an initiative set up to discover, invest in and share stories created by BIPOC filmmakers and storytellers. #oscars #academyawards #technicians #shortfilms #filmfestival #automation #humanconnection #nailsalon #manicure #pedicure #vietnamese #vietnameseamerican #nailtech #risiingvoices #BIPOC #HollyShorts #Tribeca #asinapacific #filmmakers #filmmaking #filmdirector #screenplay #screenwriter #cinema #cinematography 

Ladies and gentlemen, writer/director Colin Ludvic Racicot’s WHERE RABBITS COME FROM immerses viewers into a cold dystopian world, weaving a heartfelt tale of oppression and the unbreakable bond between a father and daughter. A story of resilience, love and hope in the face of darkness.  Through stunning animation and the captivating score, the film follows a widowed father rabbit as he seeks to reignite wonder and magic in his daughter's life after the mysterious disappearance of her mother. Drawing inspiration from Colin’s personal journey through fatherhood, this heartwarming film has qualified for consideration at the 97th Academy Awards. WHERE RABBITS COME FROM is a beautiful animated short film. The animation is a thing of beauty and the use of color and color transition is perfection and adds depth to the telling of the story. The music score moves us effortlessly from scene to scene to the present to the past and into a colorful future of hope and love. This is a must see animated short film and absolutely deserves to be Oscar-qualified and more. About the Guest Canadian writer/director Colin Ludvic Racicot and his Oscar-qualifying animated short film WHERE RABBITS COME FROM. WHERE RABBITS COME FROM captivated audiences of all ages during its international film festival tour, winning multiple awards in the process, including becoming Oscar-qualified.  The film was produced by rising talents Simon Allard and Bertrand Paquette, also founders of OUTPOST MTL, a cutting-edge post-production house and key partner in the film’s creation. WHERE RABBITS COME FROM marks the debut of Studio Niloc, embodying its artistic vision of creating inspiring works that showcase the exceptional talents of Quebec artisans.  #oscars #academyawards #animatedshort #animation #animator #shortfilms #shortfilm #filmdirector #canada #canadian #family #fatherdaughter #storytelling #cineme #cinematography #dystopian 

Harris Goldberg shares his journey to success in the world of filmmaking, working with Hollywood stars along the way. A must-watch for any cinephile or aspiring filmmaker! Harris Goldberg shares his journey to success in the world of filmmaking, working with Hollywood stars along the way. A must-watch for any cinephile or aspiring filmmaker!writer/director Harris Goldberg who started doing stand-up at age sixteen. When the time came to head to Hollywood, upon his arrival in LA, he sold his first screenplay within a week and was then signed to William Morris the week after. Twenty-five studio films later he scored his biggest success with Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo in 1999 with Rob Schneider, then The Master of Disguise in 2002 starring Dana Carvey and produced by Adam Sandler. Harris went onto direct "Where's Angelo" starring Michael Madsen, Beverely D'Angelo and Robert Forster in 2003, which premiered at The Hollywood and Santa Barbara Film Festivals. He went on to write the autobiographical "Numb," his directorial feature debut. Starring Matthew Perry where it premiered at The Tribeca Film Festival and winning Best Feature Audience Awards in Chicago and the O-Hi Film Festival. Harris Goldberg veered into television writing pilots for top networks such as HBO, NBC, ABC and others.

Ladies and gentlemen, documentary filmmaker Matthew Miele’s newest film BOB MACKIE: NAKED ILLUSION is a must see film. I want to watch it again and again, because there is so much to see and learn when it comes to the man that made us watch the red carpet shows, because of we want to see what everyone is wearing. Bob Mackie is best known for his iconic costume designs for many entertainers and artists such as Cher, Elton John, Carol Burnett, Tina Turner, Marilyn Monroe, PINK, and many more. Over the years, he has transformed the way fashion is perceived on screen, dressing iconic characters in films such as Barbie. He has even dressed Barbie. This incredible film documentary examines Bob’s unique upbringing, those whom he has held dear within his inner circle, and the familial surprises in his life that have all contributed to the optimism and audacity present in his work. This film does turn back time and it shows us that Hollywood is still full of sequins, rhinestones, and the naked illusion that can only be made from the talented hands of the fashion icon, legend and genius of Bob Mackie. About the Guest Film director Matthew Miele is a storyteller above all else, Matthew has drawn upon his various experiences in music composition, publishing, and screenwriting to become a successful producer and director of critically acclaimed, and internationally renowned, feature-length documentaries. Past films include Scatter My Ashes at Bergdorf’s, Harry Benson: Shoot First, Always at The Carlyle and Alan Pakula: Going for Truth. Mr. Miele’s latest film release, Bob Mackie: Naked Illusion, chronicles the unprecedented six-decade career of award-winning costume designer Bob Mackie. Bob Mackie is best known for his iconic costume designs for many entertainers and artists such as Cher, Elton John, Carol Burnett, Tina Turner, Marilyn Monroe, PINK, and many more. Over the years, he has transformed the way fashion is perceived on screen, dressing iconic characters in films such as Barbie and turned the Barbie doll into a fashion icon.

Ladies and gentlemen, Kelly Pike’s PICTURE DAY is about an Asian-American tomboy growing up on military bases struggles to fit in at a new school. When she decides to take control of her life, one small act of rebellion sparks a family crisis and forces her to face harsh realities about gender, power, and what it really means to find your place in this world. Sometimes a little rebellion and lead to the feeling of freedom and confidence. Everyone who has had the pleasure of seeing PICTURE DAY can relate to Casey’s mindset and emotions. About the Guest Kelly Pike is a recipient of a Director Guild Award "Award of Directing Excellence" and included on Austin Film Festival's "25 Screenwriters to Watch”. Her films have won awards at Cannes, Warsaw, Austin, Palm Springs International, and Savannah Film Festivals. Her work has earned recognition from PBS, NATO, and the Caucus for Producers, Writers & Directors and more. And she is an alum of  the AFI Directing Workshop for Women. Her short, PICTURE DAY is a sensitive and timely film grounded in the domestic side of military life. It follows a young Asian-American tomboy growing up on Army bases and her small act of rebellion sparks a family crisis. This incredible film has qualified to be considered for the 2025 Oscars after winning awards from Academy qualifying Palm Springs International Film Festival and Warsaw International Film Festival. #shortfilms #shortfilm #pictureday #militarylife #gender #filmmakers #filmmaking #filmdirector #screenwriter #cinema #cinematography #asianamerican #asian #teenager #directorguildaward #oscars #academyawards

Ladies and gentlemen, Krit Komkrichwarakool ’s short AUGANIC shares the story of a couple who are financially struggling when one night they discover an unusual phenomenon that ultimately tests the boundaries of their relationship, bringing them closer than ever. AUGANIC has been Oscar-qualified for the 2025 Academy Awards and even though the basis of this film may seem strange to some, it’s all about the relationship. The cinematography is absolutely stunning, excellent acting and the music score is one of the best this current season of short films. About the Director Krit Komkrichwarakool is an award-winning Thai-Canadian director/writer based in Vancouver. His previous credits include PLANTONIC premiered at the Inside Out Film Festival and FREEFALL was the recipient of the 'Best Director' award at Moscow Shorts and also 'Best Short Film' nominee at the 2018 Leo Awards. His short AUGANIC shares the story of a couple who are financially struggling when one night they discover an unusual phenomenon that ultimately tests the boundaries of their relationship, bringing them closer than ever. This beautifully peculiar film has qualified to be considered for the 97th Academy Awards after winning the qualifying award at the Deadcenter Film Festival. #shortfilms #oscars #academyawards #kritkomkrichwarakool #filminterview #filmreview #moviereview #filmbreakdown #lgbtq #lovestory #gold #preciousmetal #intimacy #relationshipgoals #filmmakers #filmmaking #filmdirector #filmproduction #canada   

Ladies and gentlemen, Kathy Reichs’ newest novel FIRE AND BONES is a must read for all fiction lovers and literary detectives. You will not be disappointed. After reading FIRE AND BONES, I want more! In FIRE AND BONES -- Forensic Anthropologist Temperance Brennan is called to Washington, DC, to investigate the remnants of a devastating fire—a job she expects will take her no more than a few days. Instead, the discovery of an unexpected body, one not killed by the blaze, in the hidden sub-basement of the home sends Tempe down a rabbit hole that gets deeper and twistier than she could have ever expected. FIRE AND BONES is available where all great books are sold and get your copy today. Head over to KathyReichs.com for all her books and more. About the Guest Multi-New York Times bestselling author Kathy Reichs. Her first novel Déjà Dead, published in 1997, won the Ellis Award for Best First Novel and was an international bestseller. Her newest offering, Fire and Bones is Kathy’s twenty-third novel featuring forensic anthropologist Temperance Brennan. She was also a producer of Fox Television’s longest-running scripted drama, Bones, based on her work and her novels. She is one of very few forensic anthropologists certified by the American Board of Forensic Anthropology. #novel #newnovel #newbook #forensics #forensicanthropolgy #anthropology #burnvictim #arson #drama #thriller #suspensethriller #book #bookreader #bonestv #bondtvshow #temperancebrennan

Ladies and gentlemen, make it a note that when The Ghost Trap debuts, you have to go see it. We need more films like this one. When you combine love and tragedy you have a modern day version of Romeo & Juliet. Even though I have seen this wonderful film, I will be buying a ticket and watch it again in the movie theater. Zak Steiner's notable credits include THE PERFECT DATE on Netflix, NCIS on CBS, and starred HBO’s hit show EUPHORIA. He also had a supporting role in the reboot of WHITE MEN CAN'T JUMP which premiered on Hulu. #newmovie #theghosttrap #actor #acting #newrelease #maine #lobster #lobsterfisherman #lovestory #lovetriangle #NCIS #Euphoria #hulu #hbo #netflix

Ladies and gentlemen, the lives of incarcerated wildland firefighters are the subject of the exhilarating Oscar-qualifying short film FIRELINE. The story follows Otto as he grapples with the challenges of prison life and his desire to connect with his daughter against the backdrop of a forest fire. Th film highlights the pivotal role played by prison labor in California’s firefighting efforts and the limited opportunities for these individuals to pursue careers in firefighting upon reentering society. After being denied parole, Otto desperately tries to call his daughter while his crew combats a fire. Amidst the chaos of the field, an accident forces him to confront the true extent of his obligations. FIRELINE is an incredible short film, full of emotion, danger and a ray of hope that awaits Otto. My prayer is this film will help those incarcerated who are on the frontlines fighting fires protecting our communities will have a wider choice of career when reentering society. ABOUT THE GUESTS Robin Takao D’Oench and Bobby Soto. Robin is a writer/director/producer who is motivated to tell compelling, cinematic, and culturally diverse stories. His multi-award winning short TADAI-EMA, inspired by his family’s experiences during the Japanese American Internment, received a certificate of commendation from the city of San Francisco. The film screened at over a hundred festivals and events, was acquired by Comcast-Xfinity, Seed & Spark, Full Spectrum Pictures and is included in the Densho: Japanese American Legacy Resource Guide. Actor Bobby Soto has starred in the Amazon feature film, A MILLION MILES AWAY starring opposite Michael Peña and Rosa Salazar. He can also be seen in the multi-award winning film FLAMIN' HOT, directed by Eva Longoria. And can also be seen on Netflix's NARCOS. In 2020, Bobby was seen in Scott Teems' THE QUARRY, opposite Michael Shannon and Shea Whigham. Additionally, Bobby played the lead of David Ayer’s film THE TAX COLLECTOR opposite Shia LaBeouf. Robin’s newest short, FIRELINE is a story that follows Otto played by Bobby Soto as he grapples with the challenges of prison life and his desire to connect with his daughter against the backdrop of a forest fire. #oscars #academyawards #shortfilms #shortfilm #fireline #firefighters #prisonlabor #actor #bobbysoto #film #cinema #cinematography #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmdirector #california #forestfires

Ladies and gentlemen, LUKI AND THE LIGHTS is an animated short film with a message. A teaching tool to explain to children who’s parent or friend has ALS and what does it mean if someone has ALS. LUKI & THE LIGHTS shares a charming and touching story of a robot named LUKi who is slowly starting to malfunction. But even with the struggles ahead, LUKi demonstrates unwavering resilience, painting a vivid portrait of what it means to truly live and the power to find light even in the darkest of times. This poignant animated short was made to raise awareness of ALS as well as to create a platform for children to understand what the disease is. It has qualified to be considered for the 2025 Oscars. The story follows an active, charming, and upbeat robot named LUKi who enjoys hanging with friends. One day after work while playing soccer, Luki's arm begins to malfunction. After a trip to the doctor, LUKi is diagnosed with ALS. Cinematically, the 3D animation is again off-the-charts fantastic and your eyes just want to absorb every detail in the animation. The movements are so fluid, the colors are incredible and more importantly it brings the explanation of ALS to both children and adults with ease. Toby’s brilliance comes through by mimicking the exact movements or the lack thereof in those experiencing the beginning stages of ALS as well as the latter stages of the disease. ALS is still a misunderstood disease and one in which we still don’t know what the cause it. It can strike people in the prime of their life as well affecting those in their senior years. For more information, go to GlobalNeuroYCare.org for more information as well as ALS.org. LUKI AND THE LIGHTS is Oscar-qualified and one film I am keeping my eye on when the shortlist is announced. About Toby Cochran He's an animator genius Toby Cochran and his Oscar-qualifying animated short film LUKI AND THE LIGHTS. LUKI & THE LIGHTS shares a charming and touching story of a robot named LUKi who is slowly starting to malfunction. This poignant animated short was made to raise awareness of ALS as well as to create a platform for children to understand what the disease is. LUKI & THE LIGHTS is inspired by the true story of Sascha Groen and her husband Anjo Snijders who was diagnosed with ALS. To date, the film has taken home twenty awards. #animatedshortfilm #shortfilms #animation #animated #ALS #ALSawareness #health #wellness #cartoon #3Danimation #kidscartoon #oscars #academyawards 

The main character in STOMACH IT, Joel (Jon Lee Richardson), fixates on objects left behind by the deceased such as a toy horse at an accidental shooting or a colorful toy at an overdose. Joel tries to detach by turning photos around, disposing of final meals, covering photos on mirrors, and covering personal objects like stuffed animals, but it doesn’t work. Joel has an incredibly difficult time trying to digest his trauma. STOMACH IT explores what happens when a sensitive soul struggles to cope with experiencing trauma on a daily basis. Emotions take residence within our physical selves, growing and rotting when not released, acting like a ticking time bomb. It asks the most fundamental of human questions: Do we have the guts to face our problems straight on or do we let them fester until they become something increasingly monstrous? Peter Klausner has worked with his close friend/ longtime cinematographer, Emily Tapanes. Her credits include The Morning Show (Apple TV+), A Man on the Inside (Netflix), The Sex Lives of College Girls (Max). And Peter also worked with his good friend/editor, Liam Molina. Whose credits include Fallout (Prime Video), Chief of War (Apple TV+), and The Mosquito Coast - Season 2 (Apple TV+). Jon Lee Richardson is an actor known for his roles in BEVERLY HILLS COP: AXEL F, BUG, and I MET MY MURDERER ONLINE. Jon is currently studying at The Groundlings and creates weekly sketch comedy content with his wife, Vanessa. STOMACH IT is Peter Klausner’s fourth short film. A crime scene cleaner struggles with emotionally detaching from the deceased’s personal possessions. While on a late night job, he convinces himself a monstrous presence is toying with him.  #crimescene #crimescenecleaner #drama #horror #mentalhealth #shortfilm #shortfilms #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmdirector #screenwriter #filmproduction #specialeffects #cinema #cinematography #truecrime

Ladies and gentlemen, Jamie O’Rourke’s Oscar-qualifying and IFTA winning short CALF, is about a sinister farm accident and eaves Cáit, the daughter with a terrible decision to make. CALF touches on its central theme of domestic abuse in a sensitive and considered manner and is a poignant exploration of shock, grief and trauma that delivers much-deserved catharsis. It poses tough questions for the audience. But there are never easy answers when a family is in the grip of abuse. CALF has it all as an award winning short film. The storyline is on point and when a story places questions into the audience with “What would I have done in that situation?” You have the makings of a winner. The cinematography is dark, a bit lifeless of color as it should be since domestic abuse only brings the colors of blood and bruises. The acting of both Isabelle and Kate bring an authenticity to the their roles as abused women, but also you see the glimpses of an inner strength that is born with the symbolism brought on by the calf in the barn. This film will cause you to think and one’s sins will not stay hidden in the dark for long. This film exposes those sins and brings them into the slow sunrise of an Irish farm. #oscars #academyawards #calf #screenwriter #shortfilm #shortfilms #film #domesticabuseawareness #cinema #cinematography #ireland #UK #drama #film #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmdirector #farmlife 

Ladies and gentlemen, the short film ENDLING is told in a fictional documentary style, this charming film follows a documentary crew as they interview Richard (Dennis Dun), the man responsible for taking care of Pao Pao, the last surviving goldfish on earth. I love short films like ENDLING. They don’t follow any rules and the level of creativity is off the charts fun and endearing. This film is so enjoyable to watch, because we all know it’s fiction without having to be dramatic, sad, gut-wrenching or make us feel heartbroken. We can sit back and enjoy a film that just makes our day a little bit brighter, even if our day is lacking goldfish. Kelly Yu is a Swedish-born, New Orleans raised, Chinese-American writer and director. Her work is driven by a deep fascination with finding humanity in the absurd, as well as exploring complex familial relationships and cultural identity often through an "east-meets-west" lens. Her short films have screened at film festivals around the world, with her first short PLUM TOWN winning the Grand Jury Award at Boston Independent Film Festival, the NFFTY New Talent Award for 'Best Director Under 25.” Her second short film ENDLING was executive produced by Emmy award winning actress Lena Waithe and premiered at the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival.  Kelly Yu tells a profound story of mortality in her absurdist new short film. Told in a fictional documentary style, this charming film follows a documentary crew as they interview Richard played by actor Dennis Dun, the man responsible for taking care of Pao Pao, the last surviving goldfish on Earth. This incredible short film has qualified to be considered for the 2025 Oscars. #oscars #interview #filmbreakdown #endling #goldfish #documentary #film #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmdirector #animation #cinema #cinematography #storytelling #emmyawards #tribeca #hollyshorts #filmfestival #shortfilms #shortfilm 

Ladies and gentlemen, HAMDARDI is a thrilling masterpiece of a short film. It’s longer than most at 25 minutes, but every minute mattered. Ashley Tabatabai tells the story of Ethan, a bereaved immigration officer struggling with his role in the system after meeting a young Iranian brother and sister detained during the travel ban. This short film has the feel of a high quality feature film. This film has the story, the acting, perfect casting and the cinematography is so good, nothing was missed. The camera  movements helped tell the story without a word being spoken. Sometimes when there are language barriers, the look upon one’s face or in one’s eyes tells the story, it brings a scene or a moment to life. When one hears the phrase, “Trust the system”, if feels more like one has lost all control. No one will listen, because people today don’t treat each other like humans, just a file number. We live in a world that is beyond borders, but those borders need to be bound by compassion. writer/director/producer Ashley Tabatabai an award-winning international actor and filmmaker from a culturally diverse background. He has appeared in various series and independent films, including HBO’s AVENUE 5 and Netflix’s BANK OF DAVE 2: THE LOAN RANGER. He produced, wrote and starred in the award-winning short film FALSIFIED which was long-listed for the 2018 Oscars. #oscars #hamdardi #interview #film #filmbreakdown #writer #screenwriter #filmdirector #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmfestival #travelban #compassion #cinema #cinematography

Pitof (Comar) started his career in 1976 as photographer, assistant director and editor for films and commercials. He then branched out into musical scoring, software design and graphic design for television, music videos and commercials. He is a pioneer of digital imaging in France, Pitof made his debut in visual effects in 1986. And a co-founder of Duran Duboi the digital post production company leader in France. Pitof then achieved the first French software for digital visual effects used in feature films. In 1994, Pitof won the Technical Grand Prize for visual effects at the Cannes Film Festival for his work in "Dead Tired". He went on to direct commercials and short films, most notably the award winning " A Tribute to Jessie Owens and Carl Lewis” in 1996. A year later he took on the role of second unit director for Jean-Pierre Jeune’'s "Alien: Resurrection". In 2001, "Vidocq", starring Gerard Depardieu, premiered in France. It was Pitof's feature film directorial debut and the first feature film ever made in High Definition. And this year marks the 20th anniversary of the film "Catwoman" for Warner Brothers, starring Halle Berry and Sharon Stone. #specialeffects #AI #film #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmdirector #france #visualeffects #catwoman #dccomics #halleberry #sharonstone #batman #olympics #cinema #frenchcinema #cinematography #alien #cannesfilmfestival 

Ladies and gentlemen, UNSER KIND is an Oscar-qualifying short film about a Swiss couple who are expecting a child through surrogacy in The Republic of Georgia when questions about their baby's health arise. There are many couples around the world who can’t have children. If you desire to know about surrogacy and if it’s right for you. You need to do your homework and learn everything about it. The legalities as well as the emotional toll it could be on both the parents and the surrogate. Samuel Fluckiger’s UNSER KIND is a brilliant short with incredible storytelling. It is emotionally charged with great acting from Lucy Wirth, Jurg Pluss and Gano Gerliani. The cinematography is beautiful and brings to life the subject of surrogacy. I can see why this film is an award winner, you can’t ignore that all the elements of excellent filmmaking which are very apparent in this film. #oscars #shortfilm #shortiflms #surrogacy #infertility #Switzerland #RepublicofGeorgia #film #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmdirector #cinema #cinematography #relationships 

My guests today are Irish filmmakers Luke and Jake Morgan. Their films have screened at festivals all over the world - from South Africa and Japan, the USA to Ireland's premiere festivals. Luke was the winner of the "Best Director" award at Worcester Film Festival for 2021 and 2022, nominated for the Discovery Award at the Dublin International Film Festival in 2020. He is also an award-winning published poet. Jake Morgan is a composer, conductor and producer from Ireland who specializes in creating original music and audio for film, theatre, and video games. Jake was the producer and composer of the multi award-winning short film THE BOAT which has qualified for an Academy Award. He is the co-founder of Morgan Brothers and is based in Galway, Ireland. Their newest short film THE BOAT is based on a true story. When a young girl named Dhuckia grows up, she wants to be a boat maker, like her father. But when he discovers that she is showing the early symptoms of leprosy, he must make a devastating choice. #shortfilm #oscars #shortfilms #leprosy #nepal #filmmakers #filmmaking #filmdirector #filmscore #cinema #cinematography #health #theboat #ireland 

Multi Award Winning Producer/Director and Series Producer Francis Whately, who has over 30 years’ experience in high-end & award-winning documentaries for major TV broadcasters on both sides of the Atlantic, including the BBC, HBO, Netflix, A&E, Showtime, Discovery and PBS.   His hugely diverse range of films cover Music, Arts, History, Current Affairs, Sports, Science and Business.  Highlights include the award winning and highly acclaimed feature trilogy ‘David Bowie – Five Years’, ‘Power and the World’s Women with Hillary Clinton’, the feature length ‘Dolly Parton – Here I am’, ‘Glastonbury at 50’, the drama documentary series ‘His Most Intimate Betrayal’ about the spy Kim Philby and Andrew Marr’s multi award winning ‘History of Britain’ and ‘History of Modern Britain’. Francis has interviewed and worked with among others: Billie Eilish, Dame Judi Dench, Twiggy, His Royal Highness the late Duke of Edinburgh, Dolly Parton, Kate Moss, David Bowie, and Chris Martin to name a few. #documentaryfilm #filmdocumentary #davidbowie #dollyparton #Glastonbury #andywarhol #judidench #BillieEilish #royalfamily #BBC #JellyRoll #coldplay #britian

We discuss his Oscar-qualified, Cannes Film Festival Palme d’Or winning short film THE MAN WHO COULD NOT REMAIN SILENT. Ladies and gentlemen, Nebosha Slijepčević’s Oscar-qualified, Cannes Film Festival Palme d’Or winning short film THE MAN WHO COULD NOT REMAIN SILENT is based on a true story that happened in 1993 of a passenger train traveling from Belgrade to Bar when it is stopped by paramilitary forces in an ethnic cleansing operation. There we meet the man who quite literally could remain silent and stands for his rights as well as others on board, leaving witness to this horrific form of treatment in shock. Only one man out of 500 passengers dares to stand up to them. This is the true story of a man who could not remain silent.  This film brings us an unassuming hero, Tomo Buzov who stood up for his fellow passengers and paid the ultimate price. This film is a cinematic beauty and deserves being Oscar-qualified. This film is what winning a possible Oscar is all about. A compelling story, acting that grips the heart and stirs your emotions. The cinematography at this level is very rare in cinema and when you get the chance to see THE MAN WHO COULD NOT REMAIN SILENT you will be like me and not remain silent about how incredible this short film truly is. I believe we call it a masterpiece. #palmedor #cannesfilmfestival #serbia #croatia #cinema #cinematic #shortfilm #shortfilms #film #filmmakers #filmmaking #filmdirector #screenwriter #truestory #tomobuzov   

Award-winning creator of some of the most popular animated TV series of our time, including Babar, Little Bear, The Adventures of Tintin, Berenstain Bears, Franklin, The Magic School Bus, Beetlejuice, Inspector Gadget, and Arthur to name a few. Michael Hirsh has written a tell-all book Animation Nation: How We Built A Cartoon Empire, featuring untold stories of the making of some of the most cherished cartoons of all time. All in all, Michael Hirsh produced and created over 6,000 episodes of children’s TV programming. These programs ran on every children’s network and cable channel around the world -- PBS, Cartoon Network, CBS, FOX, Disney Channel, Nickelodeon, to name just a few. He understood the secret ingredient needed to captivate children with entertaining shows that parents would wholeheartedly endorse and enjoy.  In his book, Animation Nation: How We Built A Cartoon Empire is not just a memoir; it's a celebration of the power of creativity and perseverance. Packed with humor and hard-won wisdom, Hirsh's narrative is a testament to how passion and entrepreneurial zeal can build a global empire from humble beginnings. This book also contains some nuggets that every entrepreneur should learn when it comes to hiring the right people. #Babar #Little Bear #TheAdventuresofTintin #BerenstainBears #Franklin #The Magic School Bus #Beetlejuice #InspectorGadget #Arthur #donkeykong #animation #animator #cartoon #comics #Disney #FOX #ABC #CBS #NBC #BBC #ITV #newbook #starwars #georgelucas #stevenspielberg 

My guests today are Ally Condrath and Jake Mann. They are part of Dinner for One, a comedy collective and writing team along with Ian Wexler and Kyle Miller.  The team writes and produces all projects in-house ranging from indie television to short films, digital content and live sketch comedy. They've performed at the TBS New York Comedy Festival, Upright Citizen's Brigade and headlined sketch festivals across the US.  Dinner for One has been praised as "the funniest, most inventive sketch troupe in the NY Comedy scene."  Their newest short, 4th DEMENTIA, received the Grand Jury Prize for Best Screenplay at Flicker's Rhode Island Festival and continues its run, screening at Oscar-qualifying festivals, like HollyShorts, all over the country.  Ladies and gentlemen, the short film 4TH DEMENTIA is In this multiverse comedy about Alzheimer’s. Nellie, the lead character travels through alternate dimensions in search of her husband. This film breaks comedy out of the politically correct box we have placed it in. We need to learn to laugh and how to laugh at life’s most challenging situations. Laughter is the best medicine and we can’t keep that type of medicine locked away. 4TH DEMENTIA is a wonderful film. Very high quality cinematography, stellar acting that creates a mixture of emotions in the audience. From laughter to sadness to heartbreak. We have to learn to laugh in the face of many challenges or we’ll go crazy. 4TH DEMENTIA is not only a film worth seeing, it’s worth remembering. #dementia #alzheimers #comedy #shortfilm #shortfilms #screenwriter #actor #comedytroupe #cinema #cinematography #film #filmfestival #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmdirector 

Founder and former Chairman/CEO of Abrams Artists Agency, Harry Abrams, who always knew that he wanted to pursue a career in the entertainment industry as a talent agent. In 1958, he joined MCA Artists, which was then a talent agency. Started in the mailroom for forty dollars a week and quickly rose through the ranks. He remained at MCA until 1962, it was at this time that Mr. Abrams and an MCA co-worker decided to start their own specialized talent agency named Abrams-Rubaloff & Associates in Los Angeles. By 1977, Abrams-Rubaloff & Associates had risen to become the top talent agency of its kind throughout the country. Mr. Abrams, being the driving force behind the agency, he and his partner went their separate ways and Mr. Abrams went onto form what we now know as Abrams Artists Agency. He made unknown stars into superstars. Carl Weathers, Jaclyn Smith, Liam Neeson, Jason Alexander, Jennifer Lopez, William H. Macy, Sterling K. Brown, Michael B. Jordan, Chandra Wilson and so many others. We can literally name drop all day. Mr. Abrams is here with his new book, LET’S DO LAUNCH: A HOLLYWOOD AGENT DISHES ON HOW TO MAKE YOUR BUSINESS AND CAREER TAKE OFF. #hollywood #talentagent #jenniferlopez #carlweathers #jaclynsmith #michaelbjordan #chandrawilson #williamhmacy #sterlingkbrown #liamneesom #jasonalexander #seinfeld #hollywood #film #movies #commercials #TVshows #TVseries #charliesangels

Wwriter/director and actor Dan Abramovici began his career as an actor, most recently on projects such as Sofia Coppola’s Priscilla, HBO’s  Jane, FX’s What We Do In The Shadows, and CBS’s Star Trek Discovery.  Dan sold his first feature film, the comedy BEN’S AT HOME to Netflix and then jumped behind the camera, writing and directing a series of short films, including the Academy-Qualifying PLAY IT AGAIN, as well as LIMINAL, STUCK, and his newest short, SPACEMAN.  SPACEMAN is sci-fi fantasy coming of age short film breaking barriers via a deeply human handcrafted story made by fusing old Hollywood techniques with state-of-the art cinematic mastery. SPACEMAN uses mime, stop motion, classic animation, and theatrical elements, to explore one artist's loss of creative passion and his journey to get it back. The film is an exploration of identity, artistic passion, and the fragile nature of human connection. It weaves themes of self-discovery, mental health, and the pursuit of dreams.  Ladies and gentlemen, SPACEMAN is sci-fi fantasy coming of age film breaking barriers via a deeply human handcrafted story made by fusing old Hollywood techniques with state-of-the art cinematic mastery. SPACEMAN uses mime, stop motion, classic animation, and theatrical elements, to explore one artist's loss of creative passion and his journey to get it back. This is a great film for everyone who maybe going through some fear, self-doubt, loss of passion and wondering what in the world your purpose truly is. Strap on your space helmet and find out. #spaceman #animation #liveactionshort #shortfilms #shortfilm #cinema #cinematography #writer #screenwriter #actor #priscilla #elvis #selfawareness #selfreflection #peptalk #JKSimmons 

Karen Bryson's newest short film, Monochromatic is her directorial debut. Monochromatic is a very powerful film in which we are taken on a journey to walk in the shoes of a little girl and her mother during the late 1970s. Watching innocence fade as racism takes its toll. Actress/director Karen Bryson multi-award winning career spans over 25 years, across various multi-media platforms, both in front of the camera and more recently behind it. Karen was awarded an MBE in 2017 for her Services to Drama. She is best known for playing Avril Powell, in the critically acclaimed drama Shameless. Her recent acting projects include series regular in award winning Nordic drama White Wall, Black Narcissus on BBC and FX US, independent feature film REAL, and also portrayed Elinor Stone in Zack Snyder's Justice League on HBO MAX.  Ladies and gentlemen, Karen Bryson’s cinematic short film MONOCHROMATIC is about the inescapable moment a six year old girl realizes the world operates with bias when it comes to the color of her skin. We're all born equal....then life happens. Karen Bryson is a visionary filmmaker. Bringing truth in her film MONOCHROMATIC that I pray opens your eyes and opens your heart to change. #monochromatic #shortfilm #shortfilms #film #cinema #racism #london #whitesupremacy #laborparty #UK #cinematography #filmmaking #filmmaker #filmdirector #actress 

Ladies and gentlemen, KOUPEPIA is a short film where the main character Petros, a widowed Cypriot Man, attends his son’s engagement party although tolerant of his son’s homosexuality he is yet to be truly accepting of him. Over a bite of Koupepia, a traditional Cypriot delicacy, he meets Eleni - a British Cypriot Transgender Woman. The two appear to have nothing in common but bond over the food of their heritage reframing Petros’ relationship to his son, queer people and the Cypriot identity. The question this film leaves us with, is “Can people be more than is what we assume?” Yorgo Glynatsis, founder of House of Glynatsis Productions, is a director, writer, producer, actor and creator of the Award Winning LGBTQI+ short films. His passion for filmmaking started in 2020 when he wrote scenes for his own acting showreel. Lacking of authentic onscreen representation and a desire of using his voice to raise awareness about a past traumatic event, he created the short film Trigger which was nominated in British and International LGBTQI+ festivals and won the award of Best International Film at the Fuse International Film Festival in Kingston. Now, Sophia Vi is a Transgender British-Greek Cypriot writer, director, actor and CEO of Koupepia Films. She trained at The London Studio Center and The International School of Screen Acting.   Sophia has recently written and produced 2 short films - Koupepia and Façade. She is currently in development on her first feature film.   Focussing on her writing and producing, Sophia seeks use her production company, Koupepia Films, to create short form LGBT+ and Diasporic stories of joy that can be developed for long form features.  #koupepia #shortfilm #greek #cypriot #cypress #LGBTG #family #relationship #filmmaker #filmmaking #screenwriter #actress #cinema #cinematography  #trans #transgender #diasporic

Ladies and gentlemen, Nazi occupied Norway is the setting of this heart-stopping short film ELSA, based on true events that happened to many Norwegian women during this time. Set in Oslo in 1945, this gripping tale explores a tense love triangle between a Norwegian civilian woman, her adoring neighbor and a German soldier. This compelling short is currently being developed into a feature film, which I can’t wait to see. As a filmmaker, director Rebecca King was selected as 'Ten Female Filmmakers to Watch’ by Aesthetica for Primetime Network following her debut short ‘Contenders’. She was commissioned by the International Sápmi Film Institute to direct an episode called ‘A Home Truth’ for a miniseries in lockdown. For theater, Rebecca directed ‘The Green Zone’ which was staged at the Furore Festival, Stuttgart Germany. As a script supervisor, she worked on Seasons one and two of the Emmy-winning HBO series ‘House of the Dragon’ and on Iain Softley’s ‘The Shepherd’ starring John Travolta.  Lead actress and producer Nina Yndis has won numerous awards for her work. She was recently seen in the psychological thriller ‘The Box’ as well as ‘Mrs Sidhu Investigates’. Other credits include ‘Peaky Blinders’, ‘Call the Midwife’ and the hugely popular video game ‘Final Fantasy XVI’. She can be seen in the futuristic series ‘The Fortress’ starring Russel Tovey, the Norwegian drama ‘In the Name of Love’ and lent her voice to the film Baghead. As a producer, Nina created six short films and three music videos. Both are here today to talk about their new short film, ELSA. A heart-stopping short based on true events that happened to many Norwegian women in Oslo in 1945, when Nazis occupied Norway. #ELSA #director #filmdirector #shortfilm #shortfilms #actress #rebeccaking #ninayndis #peakyblinders #oslo #norway #germany #ww2 #film #filmmaking #filmmakers #cinema #drama #cinematography