Requital, 3min,. UK
Directed by Ande Case
A short Animation of how history repeats itself. Frustratingly.

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
The original idea was from my partner who talked about history repeating itself. We despise inequality, that people so wealthy they will never want for anything still end up being so cruel and disgusting. The worst of us. They have the ability to end hunger, disease, homelessness yet they always end up being fascists who only want to visit cruelty upon others.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
About 6 months from script to final version as Lucy, the animator, was very kindly developing this film in between all the other work she had on and, due to budget, we had to rethink some scenes and visuals.

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

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film? Finance, it's always finance. I have reached a point where 'funding streams' are some fairy tale old filmmakers tell newbies about how good it was in their day :-)

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
Humbled. That others understood the story, the journey, the messages I was trying to communicate. As a scriptwriter / filmmaker that to me is the most important part of the creation - no good someone saying the film was beautifully shot if they have no idea what it meant.

6. When did you realise that you wanted to make films?
At least 20 years ago but it took another 10 years to actually believe I could. Then there was the whole creating scripts, building networks, understanding all the mechanics. Then being a finalist in a major script competition which I assumed meant Hollywood next and in fact led to absolutely nothing. The harsh reality has kept me focused though.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
That would be a stupidly long list as I rewatch so many but ones that spring to mind are Shawshank Redemption, Singin' In The Rain, Apocalypse Now, Serenity, Princess Bride, Hot Fuzz, Bladerunner, Jaws, Alien and The Matrix. But, if you are forcing me to pick one then 2001: A Space Odyssey for the practical effects alone.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
Difficult but certainly one Festival made clear (after you had paid) they would only accept 10 Short films. But they had 100's applying. However you want to look at that it feels like money making not supporting the creative community. For me though, if you are selected or better still Win you get actual, tangible networking opportunities.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
Been using this platform for a while and never had any difficulties with it. Of course, with so many other platforms closing, it has pretty much become the one to use and hopefully that may better shine a torch on emerging talent who get a chance to take their career further.

10. What is your favourite meal?
I want to say something exotic and amazing but really buttered toast with a 'good' scrambled egg and a pinch of salt and pepper.

11. What is next for you? A new film?
Yes, a new film. I have several scripts I want to make but, of course, it is all about having the finances in place first.