Sequoia, 15min., Switzerland
Directed by Michelle Künzler
Sequoia, a diligent AI maid, works for the captivating yet mysterious Mrs. Terrance. Although not designed to harbor any emotions, Sequoia starts developing sentience, when a certain sound triggers a feeling inside her that feels oddly familiar - and human. Forced to conceal her newfound emotions to evade shutdown, Sequoia embarks on a dangerous quest for truth, tearing at the seams of her own identity and re-evaluating the intricate power dynamics that govern her place within the household.

http://sequoia-shortfilm.com/
https://www.instagram.com/sequoia_shortfilm/

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
I started writing ‘Sequoia,’ when AI tools like ChatGPT were rapidly gaining traction and the Hollywood strikes were unfolding, motivating me to explore the ethical implications and potential dangers of AI. The film was also deeply inspired by my personal experience. Growing up in a traditional household with a stay-at-home mom, I didn’t initially grasp the value and scope of unpaid domestic labor until I got older. As a feminist filmmaker, I wanted to pay tribute to housewives like my mother and shed light on that often overlooked, gendered work while connecting it to the theme of AI. I was particularly interested in the way modern technology intersects with gender roles—given that today’s AI assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Ameca are still predominantly female in name, voice, and/or appearance.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
It took 20 months. The idea for ‘Sequoia’ first came to me in April 2023, and I completed the film in November 2024.

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

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
There were quite a few challenges throughout the entire project—from budget and time constraints to assembling the right crew. However, the biggest hurdle came during production as we fell behind schedule due to constant noise disruptions during exterior filming and a stunt scene that look longer to shoot than expected, resulting in an unplanned pick-up shoot. With some key crew members no longer available for the reshoot, it was difficult to find replacements and maintain continuity. Still, I’m proud to have persevered and overcome this obstacle. I’ve certainly learned and grown a lot from this experience.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
Hearing the audience talk about my film, when it’s usually the other way around, felt like a rare and special moment. It was incredibly rewarding and refreshing to just listen to their honest feedback and kind words, and it was especially satisfying to learn that the twist at the end genuinely surprised them.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
I realized early on that I wanted to make films, but it took time to find the courage and self-belief to actually pursue that passion. As a kid, I’d watch tons of DVDs and create stop-motion “movies” with a small handheld camera, using my toys as actors. Yet as I grew older, filmmaking seemed like an unrealistic career path—especially growing up in Switzerland, where the film industry is limited. I’ve always loved writing, so initially I considered journalism as a more realistic career choice, but I eventually realized it wasn’t for me. At 25, with the unwavering support of my family—especially my mother, who’s always encouraged me to follow my dreams—I finally packed my bags and moved to LA to become a filmmaker.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
Difficult to say, but I used to re-watch a lot of chick flicks like ‘Legally Blonde’ and ‘Mean Girls.’ However, I’ve always been more drawn to TV shows, and I’ve probably watched ‘Desperate Housewives’ more than anything else.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
Great question! First, I want to thank you for the incredible support and opportunities your festival already provides. To further support filmmakers, I suggest sharing the trailers or short clips of their films on your Instagram to boost visibility and build anticipation. Offering a short free review, with the option to purchase a more detailed one, and hosting an in-person screening and Q&A to foster networking and direct audience engagement would also be helpful.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
Great! The information on FilmFreeway is clearly presented and easy to access, making the submission process smooth and easy.

10. What is your favorite meal?
Any meal my Turkish mom cooks is my favorite—there’s nothing like homemade comfort food. I especially love Turkish dishes with yoghurt like Mantı and Dolma. I’m also a big fan of Italian cuisine like Penne all’Arrabbiata.

11. What is next for you? A new film?
Lately, I’ve been focusing a lot on production design, but I’m eager to shift my attention back to writing and directing. I’m planning to write and direct a new feminist thriller short film this year and would love to collaborate with Amber again, who played Mrs. Terrance in ‘Sequoia.’