Versipellis, 26min., UK
Directed by James Rigby
In this spine-chilling horror film, a young girl, Sophia, faces the dilemma of choosing whom to trust when an imposter infiltrates her home.

https://www.instagram.com/versipellis_film

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

I wanted to challenge myself by making my first horror film. I was curious about how to approach the story, its themes, and the craft of building fear in an audience. I researched the genre, studied other films, and asked myself: what do I personally find scary, and why do I react that way? That exploration shaped the direction of the film.

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

The script was originally written and pitched during my time at Arts University Bournemouth. After taking a short break from it, I came back with fresh eyes, refined the concept, and pushed it forward. With the support of people around the world, we successfully crowdfunded £1,500, which allowed us to bring the project to life.

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

Broken Routine / Unfamiliar Home

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

Lighting the basement scenes was our biggest challenge. We had limited control over the background and faced several technical issues on set, which created extra pressure in post-production. Finding creative solutions there was essential to achieving the final look.

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

It was amazing. I didn't expect such detailed and constructive feedback. Hearing how people connected with different aspects of the film, and what stood out to them, was very rewarding and motivating.

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

Pretty much as soon as I could hold a camera. I started with a first-generation iPad, then gradually worked my way up to proper cameras. Filmmaking has always been a passion of mine, and my ambition is to grow into a career as a film director.

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

I don't usually rewatch films because there's always so much new content to discover, but one I keep coming back to is Real Steel by Shawn Levy. The mix of a great score, exciting action, and a heartfelt story continues to resonate with me to this day.

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

Helping films gain visibility is always invaluable — whether that's through sharing them, creating opportunities for conversations, or continuing to promote them even after the festival itself.

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

Very smooth and straightforward. FilmFreeway makes submitting work easy and enjoyable, which allows filmmakers to focus on the creative side.

10. What is your favorite meal?

Älplermagronen — Swiss alpine macaroni and cheese served with applesauce. A true comfort food classic!

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

Yes I am currently developing a new script which I plan to direct in the coming year.

At the moment, I'm completing my compulsory military service in Switzerland (July–October 2025), serving as a Security Soldier. Alongside this, I was appointed as the Chief Media of my military group — a role where I document activities, create visual content, and support communications. While this isn't a traditional creative industry position, it allows me to continue applying my filmmaking and media skills, all while remaining active in developing and sharing my film work.

Once I've completed my service, I plan to return to the UK to attend industry networking events, then travel to Dubai and Australia to connect with other creators and expand my international network.

I'm excited to build new collaborations and continue developing my career as a filmmaker.