HIGHER, 20min., Italy
Directed by Michael Carlo Allen
A group of Sicilian teenagers spend an evening discussing life and art.

https://instagram.com/michaelcarloallen

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

I wanted to work in a specific genre that I hadn't worked in yet and was inspired by some teenagers in the neighborhood I lived in at the time..

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

About 6 months.

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

Curious kids

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

The special effects were quite difficult and time consuming. We played with a lot of options, including AI, and ultimately decided to go old school analog vibes.

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

It was very cool to hear strangers discuss the film. Thanks for offering that.

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

Late teens, early twenties.

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

Batman (Tim Burton, 1989) I was an avid Batman comic reader as a kid and I watched this movie on VHS almost everyday for like a year or more.

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 always am interested in networking with other micro budget indie filmmakers for potential collaborations or favors or friendships or whatever. I'd like to know more people that are making films in a similar way as me and my team.

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

I have used filmfreeway for a while. It's fine.

10. What is your favorite meal?

It's a bowl of vegan Ramen at T's in the Tokyo train station.

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

Starting to write a new film with a long time friend.