SURRENDER, 12min., USA
Directed by Raphael Buisson
Two brothers find themselves entangled in a violent confrontation at a beach house in Malibu. One of the brothers loses his life, while the other, awaiting the arrival of the police, reflects on the events that led to this tragedy.

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https://www.instagram.com/raphael9619/

Get to know the filmmaker:

1:What motivated you to make this film?

The motivation behind creating this film stemmed from a blend of personal experiences I went through, with the storyline in the short deliberately and, hopefully, dramatically heightened. The profound emotions of deep regrets and betrayal served as the core inspiration for bringing this film to life.

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

5 months.

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

Ego and regrets.

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
The biggest obstacle we faced in completing this film was not losing ourselves in the different timelines. Our challenge was to make the story clear with the minimum use of dialogue. Additionally, we worked closely with the music composer to create a soundtrack that aptly fit the turmoil of the protagonist.

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

Very interesting and insightful comments to improve as a filmmaker and do better next time.

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

Originally from Paris, my love affair with cinema was sparked in the earliest days of my childhood. In those innocent moments, I held the belief that actors were somehow trapped inside the movie screen. This misconception that fueled my imagination and curiosity. Little did I know then that this quirky belief would kickstart a lifelong fascination with filmmaking that would shape my journey.

On a film set in Paris at the age of 12, I became hooked. I knew I wanted to be a part of it. It continued to grow as I wrote and directed my own short films.

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

Heat (Michael Mann 1995)

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 screening in person with a Q&A would be great!

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

Great, no problem with the platform. I wish the submission were less expensive to give a chance to more people.

10. What is your favorite meal?

Pasta Carbonara.

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

As of right now I’m working as cinematographer for an upcoming sci-fi feature.

Additionally, I'm excited to present my recent directorial work, "The Optimist," my second feature, alongside various short films and VR projects where I serve as director and DP.

Beyond these projects, I'm nurturing a slate of ideas spanning post-WWII drama, sci-fi animated adventure, multi-perspective narrative in a nightclub, and a neo-noir film about a hacker fugitive embroiled in industrial espionage.

Amidst these creative pursuits, we closely monitor the progress of several short films I've directed, shot, and/or produced, featured in numerous festivals within and outside LA.