THE EMPYREAN, 17min., Australia
Directed by Hannah Smith
In a future world full of darkness and oppression, a young girl, inventive and determined, fights to see ‘the stars’ for the first time.

https://www.instagram.com/theempyreanshort/

Director Biography - Hannah Smith

Hannah Smith is a Writer/Director working in the Film and Television industry.

Hannah's current film experience comes from shadowing Director Jeffrey Walker on Jim Henson Company's 'The Portable Door' and has been directing 2nd Unit on projects like NBC's 'Young Rock', and Disney's 'The Clearing'.

Evident in 'Empyrean' and her own writing work, Hannah strives to tell bold and meaningful stories with a fresh and original take.

Director Statement

THE EMPYREAN is a short that doubles as a Proof-of-Concept for a Feature Film or Series.

I grew up in a rural town and was shocked at the lack of stars when I moved to the city. I’ve expanded on this concept by amplifying the idea to the point that, in Enid’s world, no stars are visible and over time they had even been forgotten. After learning that they may still exist Enid starts her own journey to see them.

The main challenge with this film came from having to create a unique world with a limited budget. We could not build this world physically, so the decision to shoot 100% of this film via green screen and draw our backgrounds was the next creative option that excited us most. This had its own challenges but was ultimately the key ingredient in selling our fantasy/sci-fi/comic book tone.

It was wonderful to direct a mixed medium as bold as this, enabling all cast and crew (in every department!!) to flex their imaginations and talents.

Berry Salem - producer

CAST LIST:

Chloe Guy - Enid
Lakokta Johnson - Ethan
Warwick Comber - Grandfather
Halle O'Leary - Connie