Detectives & Dragons, 8min., Canada
Directed by Lucas Candelino, Benjamin Kostecki, Evan McDowell
A know-it-all detective is tasked with incriminating a murder suspect through a fantasy role-playing game by recreating the scenario of the killing. Tensions escalate when he goes off-script.

https://instagram.com/candelino.jpeg

Get to know filmmaker Lucas Candelino:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
A: These types of role-playing games make for a fun scenario since they have very specific rules players have to follow. We thought it would be a fun idea to have a fish-out-of-water character, like a cop, try to play it while trying to follow these rules and avoiding being caught.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
A: It took about 3 months, mostly pre-production and editing while shooting took 2 days.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
A: Dry chaos.

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
A: The biggest obstacle was having enough time to shoot. We only had 8 hours inside the store, but we also had to rehearse, record ADR, move equipment, etc... By the end, we were gung-ho.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
A: I'm happy they enjoyed it. I'm especially glad they noted that an audience member can watch this without playing the game before; we really tried to write the script with that in mind.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
A: I made a terrible Illuminati documentary on a Samsung tablet when I was 12. Still, it was fun, so I decided to continue making videos as I grew up.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
A: Top Secret!

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
A: This is my first time submitting, so I had a great experience and appreciate the feedback provided.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
A: The site was very convenient, no complaints.

10. What is your favorite meal?
A: Lasagna, like Garfield.

11. What is next for you? A new film?
A: Likely another short. I usually make comedic stuff, so I think a drama/horror is the plan.