THE HONEY MOVIE, 82min., Spain, Documentary
Directed by Sasha Nikitin
A man’s journey to show the true value of honey and its purpose for humanity. The film follows the hero for 30 days, thru 6 different countries, eating only honey for the entire duration of filming. It explores how different cultures relate to this product, how they cultivate it and dispels the myth that honey and sugar are the same.

https://www.instagram.com/thehoneymovie/

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

We were motivated by the fact that people worldwide consume very little honey and tend to prefer sugar instead. We felt compelled to create a film that would inspire viewers to embrace the consumption of this healthy and natural product, while also promoting the conservation and growth of bee populations on our planet.

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

The entire production process took approximately 2 months for pre-production, 1 month for filming, and another 4 months for post-production.

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

"Honey Expedition."

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

The preparation stage was tough. We had to talk to people over the phone who didn't speak English well and negotiate the details and purpose of our trip. It wasn't safe to stay outside hotels after sunset in Africa, but we really wanted to film the honey harvesting from the trees. While I was filming in Ethiopia my left eye got infected, so I had to shoot with only one eye for a whole week. And to top it off, I got stung by around 40 wild African bees while filming on a tree. But all these challenges only made our journey more exciting and unforgettable )

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

It was absolutely mind-blowing to see the audience's reactions in the feedback video. We poured our hearts and souls into this project, and to hear people talking about it, appreciating the beauty of the shots, and connecting with the story.

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

I realized my passion for filmmaking when my camera introduced video recording capabilities. As a former photographer, I transitioned to watching documentaries and became captivated by the ability to capture inspiring stories through the lens, observing people's lives unfold before me.

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

I tend to gravitate toward films centered around travel, biopics, and thought-provoking documentaries that portray ordinary individuals with fascinating life stories in extraordinary settings

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

We highly value the festival experience and believe that incorporating additional elements can further enhance the satisfaction and support provided to filmmakers. For example, workshops or panels featuring industry professionals discussing various aspects of filmmaking can be immensely beneficial.

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

Submitting our film to the festival via FilmFreeway has been a seamless and positive experience. The platform has provided us with a user-friendly interface, streamlined submission process, and effective communication channels, enabling us to navigate the festival circuit with ease.

10. What is your favorite meal?

I thoroughly enjoy indulging in meals abundant in greens and fruits, particularly diverse salads incorporating nuts and dried fruits.

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

Currently, I am immersed in the production of a new film that explores the lives of artists who genuinely inspire and bring joy to others. Simultaneously, I am undertaking a long-term project focused on the subject of childbirth.