THIRTY SEVEN DOLLARS, 10min,. Singapore
Directed by Ashish Sharma
"Thirty Seven Dollars" is a powerful 10-minute thriller that explores the devastating cycle of urban violence through an unlikely conversation between predator and prey. When Jessica, a dignified woman, encounters Donnie, a volatile street criminal, their exchange becomes a haunting meditation on choice, consequence, and the true cost of violence. Set in the gritty underbelly of an unnamed city, this film delivers a shocking twist that reframes everything we thought we knew about victim and perpetrator.

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

I've always been passionate about storytelling, especially in the suspense and thriller genres. I love exploring the complexities of human emotions and relationships through those kinds of stories. When I came across Rob's wonderful script about redemption, I was instantly drawn to it. It felt like the perfect opportunity to turn it into a cinematic short thriller with a strong emotional core and a great plot twist.

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

It took around three months from pre-production to post-production. It was a pretty intense schedule, but everything came together nicely in that time.

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

Cinematic and suspenseful.

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
Balancing filmmaking with a full-time job in Information Technology was definitely the toughest part. I could only shoot on weekends and often late into the nights, so scheduling actors and dealing with weather conditions was tricky — especially since the film was shot entirely outdoors. Still, we managed to complete the entire project over eight weekends. I really wanted it to look cinematic, and even though it took time, I'm proud of how it turned out — particularly because it's been recognized at several festivals and has even won a few awards, including Best Cinematography.

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

It was really satisfying and kind of surreal. Hearing people talk about how they experienced the film — what moments stood out or how they interpreted certain scenes — was amazing. Feedback like that helps you grow as a filmmaker and gives you ideas for what to focus on next time.

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

Honestly, the moment I read this script. It just clicked. I knew I had to make it. It reminded me how much I love visual storytelling and how powerful film can be.

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

Definitely thriller and suspenseful films. I'm drawn to stories that keep you guessing and make you think about human nature.

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

I think more networking opportunities would be amazing — like filmmaker meetups or virtual roundtables where we can connect with other directors, producers, and even distributors. Workshops or discussions around indie filmmaking and storytelling would also be really valuable.

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

It's been great, honestly. FilmFreeway is really easy to use — the submission process is smooth, and I like how transparent everything is. It's also a great place to discover festivals that fit your film's style and genre.

10. What is your favorite meal?

Italian food — I love pasta! It's my comfort food.

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

Yes, I've been working on a few scripts, and I've picked one to move forward with. It's another short film — a suspenseful story with a really interesting plot twist. I'm excited to start that project soon.