NOT MY COAT, 1min., Russia
Directed by Denis Talanov
Too often other people push their own life rules on us guided by
their own fears, doubts and restrictions. It’s like they try to
put someone else's coat on us sewn not to our bodies and souls.

https://instagram.com/talanovd

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
At the end of last year, I faced a situation where people again tried to tell me how I should live and create — putting their fears and limits on me. I felt like I was being pushed into a coat that didn't belong to me — again. That moment made me realize: I can't be quiet anymore.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
It happened really fast. The whole process took about a month and a half — from idea to the final film.

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

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

Actually, everything went really smoothly. We enjoyed the whole process and didn't have any serious problems.
Funny thing — we wasted a full Polaroid cartridge just trying to check if the old camera worked.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
It was an incredible feeling. People from different countries understood what I wanted to say.
It felt like we spoke about something important — and it really touched people all around the world.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
When I was 15, I started shooting a web series with friends. It was a very naive idea, but that's how my journey began.
We made episodes about teenage life, and they got 100,000 views without any promo. I learned filming and editing by doing it.
Later I started doing event videos — weddings, birthdays. I didn't study film directing (I have a degree in show direction) but after working in the show industry, I realized I really missed personal expression — so I came back to filmmaking. And now, for the last few years, I'm fully focused on it.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
Definitely Harry Potter. I watched all the parts again and again as a kid — I was a huge fan.
I spent so many hours watching those movies.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
It would be amazing to get photos and videos from the screening of my film in the cinema. That would really help to feel the presence and share the moment.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experience been working on the festival platform site?
FilmFreeway is super easy to use. It's great that with just a few clicks you can send your ideas to the other side of the world.

10. What is your favorite meal?
Pasta. I love pasta in all forms.

11. What is next for you? A new film?
Yes! Me and my team are now working on a new big project.
It's an art film about psychological trauma and the way it shapes our soul.
We're reimagining the story of The Snow Queen by Hans Christian Andersenand through dance and performance, we focus on the character of Kai.