In each episode, the C.E.O. of WILDsound, Matthew Toffolo, chats about all things storytelling and film. Conversations with talented individual from all around the world.
THERAPY TIES, 30min., USA
Directed by Christine Evette Giles
The effects of Wanda’s unresolved childhood trauma forces a tsunami of events to take place in the her family. This leaves her husband, Malcolm, as the primary caretaker of two children, one of which has a disability. Traditional and nontraditional therapy becomes the epicenter of their daily life.
https://doc.storydoc.com/DJgAFJ
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SING ME TO SLEEP, 25min,. USA
Directed by Mario Valdivieso
“Sing Me To Sleep” follows the story of a young couple by the name of Marc and Julia. Julia has been diagnosed with cancer and she is at the point where her disease has become terminal. Marc decides to take his dying wife home so they can make the most of their last days together.
https://www.instagram.com/sing_me_to_sleep_film/
Get to know the filmmaker:
What motivated you to make this film?
I’ve been with my partner Kira (also a producer on the film) for five years now. We started dating three months before covid. When covid hit, we decided to move in together as she is immune compromised which made the prospect of her getting covid extra dangerous. Unfortunately she ended up getting covid and spent several weeks in the hospital with double pneumonia and even the doctors at the time were unsure if she would survive. She did recover thankfully, but it got me thinking a lot about telling a story about a relationship ending when it was just getting started. The nugget of that concept became “Sing Me To Sleep”. I also wanted to tell a realistic portrayal of what it is like to care for someone who is sick.
What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
My reaction to watching the feedback video was relief, relief that what we set out to do with the film was clear to the audience. I was moved by how moved the audience members that provided feedback were. And I was so impressed at how thoughtful all the comments were, the three members really took the time to give us some great feedback. When you make a movie, a filmmaker always wants to feel validated that what they put together will be enjoyed and felt by the audience so watching the reactions was extremely validating.
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PLAIN AS NIGHT, 4min,. Canada
Directed by Seth Mackie
A man witnesses a murder from his dorm room.
Get to know the filmmaker:
What motivated you to make this film?
The initial motivation was an assignment for a digital media program I enrolled in, where I had to make a short film. The idea for the project, however, came from the really late nights I would spend in my dorm room, listening quietly to music and looking out my window, where I would often see a few running cars parked next to each other for long periods of time. I always wondered what they were up to, so I imagined a scenario where someone found out.
What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
I was very pleasantly surprised to hear all of the positive things they had to say about the film. Hearing someone say that it was ‘masterfully done’ or that it’s ‘a great work of passion’ was hugely inspiring to hear.
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11 BLOCKS TO GO: THE BET, 10min., USA
Directed by Nathaniel P. Claridad
Samantha, a free-spirited hapless romantic, discovers her 30-something-year-old BFF Drew, a gay high-functioning drug-addled sex addict, hosting an orgy in lieu of honoring his personal commitments.
https://www.instagram.com/11blockstogo/
Conversation wth the screenwriter & stars of the film Jack Utrata & Ashley Alexander.
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THE VISITOR, 11min., USA
Directed by Nikolaus Aldrich
With his relationship in a rough patch and his career stalled, A man tries to find new purpose by retreating to the Pacific Northwest. While there, strange things begin to happen as he grapples with his sense of reality.
https://www.instagram.com/thevisitor_shortfilm2024/
Get to know the filmmaker:
What motivated you to make this film?
As a kid I was always fascinated by the subject of UFOs and Aliens. But I never really spent much time thinking about it as an adult. Then last year it was in the news a lot. It sort of re-ignited that curiosity I had as a child. There was so much storytelling potential that I drafted out a whole trilogy of films based on an idea that had come to me. I decided to start small and develop this as a short. The short film is essentially the opening prologue for the feature. While writing the short I wanted to make sure that it could work both as an intro to a feature but a self contained story as well.
I wanted to map the films in a way that naturally progresses through the emotions of what I imagine one would go through if they were to experience this. So starting in a Sci-Fi/Horror genre made sense to me. But if I’m lucky enough to expand this further it wouldn’t necessarily stick with that genre throughout the story.
What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
It was surreal. There were some things mentioned that honed right in on specific points I was trying to make. The idea of the Visitor(s) and how technically all the characters are alien to this location was a very intentional bit. I was happy to see that point come across. It was also so fun to see how the audience brought their own interpretations to it, what kinds of genres it fit into and filmmakers it reminded them of. There was a lot of hard work put into the film from every department and I was very happy to hear that those teams were given mentions. They really pushed the film into the next level.
The reaction to the film has been so positive. With its inception coming from a relatively dark time in my life. I really don’t have words to describe how incredible it feels to hear others talking about the film and engaging with it enthusiastically. My initial reaction was that this whole strange journey was worth it. I couldn’t be prouder of how it turned out and hearing the reactions to it made me a bit emotional if I’m being honest. I was very moved by the whole experience because it’s surprisingly pretty rare in the festival circuit to really get that kind of direct feedback on your work.
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THE DAYS OF KNIGHT, 9min., USA
Directed by John P Martinez
A highly trained operative, belonging to a clandestine ancient group of expert mercenaries, is given a mission to recover a valuable item for one of the 13 most influential families on Earth. As war breaks out and alliances formed centuries ago crumble, survival becomes the top priority for everyone involved.
https://www.instagram.com/1018filmsaz/
Get to know the filmmkaer:
What motivated you to make this film?
This was on my bucket list of things to accomplish. I always wanted to create a short film and decide to just do it! I should have done this long ago…
What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
It was a fanatastic experience seeing their reaction. I was stunned, speechless and amazed.
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And The Balls Roll On… The Real Story of the Beautiful Game of Skee-Ball, 93min., USA
Directed by Thaddeus O. Cooper, Kevin B Kreitman
This is the story of Skee-Ball—a unique game, patented in 1908 by a long forgotten inventor living in Vineland NJ: Joseph Fourestier Simpson. The film explores the era in which the young inventor grew up, as the industrial revolution created the new middle class, and the explosion of amusement parks that allowed them to flee their crowded industrial neighborhoods for a few hours of pleasure.
http://www.nomoreboxes.com/AndTheBallsRollOn.html
https://www.facebook.com/atbrothemovie
Get to know the filmmakers Thaddeus O. Cooper, Kevin B Kreitman:
What motivated you to make this film?
Thad wanted to get back into shooting video and was looking for a small project—a 10 minute YouTube video about the history of Skee-Ball. He started digging into the real but unknown inventor, and discovered a surprisingly dramatic and moving story, and then the rest of the saga that has its own drama and memorable characters…and we knew we just had to tell the story.
What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
Thad: Dumbfounded! When you work on a project for this long, you don’t know what the impact is going to be. You have a skewed perspective.
Kevin: I was just thrilled. It hit exactly what we were trying to get the film to do. They appreciated the drama, the weaving of history through the Skee-Ball story, they liked our narrator and voice actors, and it made them nostalgic!
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THE CAPTOR, 64min., USA
Directed by Sean De La Nuez
An ex-soldier with PTSD decides to become the vigilante of his neighborhood, taking justice into his own hands against porch pirates.
https://www.facebook.com/alejandra.alanis.ortiz
https://www.instagram.com/alejandra.alanis.ortiz/
Get to know the filmmaker:
What motivated you to make this film?
I was inspired by the growing problem of porch piracy, and I wanted to explore the idea of vigilante justice, questioning where the line is between right and wrong in taking matters into your own hands.
What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
It was surreal and incredibly gratifying to see the audience connect with the themes of the film, and their reactions gave me a lot of insight into how it resonated with different people.
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TENDU, 2min., USA
Directed by Sophie Power, Michelene Mallard Billy
What happens when you grow up in a world where there was only one projected image of what a ballerina “should look like” – down to the pink nude pointe shoes?
https://www.sophiepower.info/
https://www.instagram.com/karaokeandvodka/
Get to know the filmmakers:
Michelene: What I connected the dots on is that all of my motivation to create documentary films are all mainly connected to African American arts, culture and society. Contemporary as well as commercial dance was such a safe space for me. I took part in a handful of productions during my formative years. I’ve followed the world of dance since I slowed down to finish school, and I’ve always been more fascinated with those who looked like me in a mainly white centered profession. After originally shelving the idea of making a Black ballet portrait during a stressful, hectic first semester of cramming and making multiple films to meet class deadlines, Sophie encouraged me to continue to develop the film, even offering to co-direct with me.Thus,Tendu was born.
Sophie: When Michelene first pitched the project, I knew right away that I’d like to collaborate to bring it to life. I was struck immediately by her passion for showcasing Black excellence and we both shared a combined interest in cinematography surrounding the movement of dance. In development, we came across many stories of microaggressions which Black dancers faced in their professional journeys. Particularly in the classrooms/studios of their youth. Because of this, we were driven to turn our focus towards those who were shaking this up and paving a better path for the next generation. The name ‘Tendu’ coming from the French word “tense”, is a core ballet movement which “serves as a foundation for many others”. For this project, we decided to play on this analogy by seeking out a selection of talented New York dancers/ teachers who, empowered by their craft, encourage young children of color to get involved in ballet. Thereby creating a warm and welcoming base from which Black talent can grow. Micah’s portrait is the first part of this series.
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FLY AWAY, FROGGY BOY, 8min., Canada
Directed by Mia Lobo
Fly Detective Francis McFly loses his partner to the infamous ‘Croaks’, a frog gang at the centre of his most recent investigation. Stricken by grief, he decides to get revenge, and go head to head with their ravenous leader, The Frogfather.
https://mialobo.com/home
Get to know the filmmaker:
What motivated you to make this film?
Fly Away, Froggy Boy was my final year thesis film. Everyone in their final year at my animation program was required to pitch a film idea, present it to our final year classmates, and the film ideas were chosen based on popular vote. The idea came from a joke between me and my partner (the co-creator, foley artist and voice of McFly), quite literally “Imagine if you pitched a film about a fly getting revenge on frogs”. I decided to pitch it to my class to see if anyone would be drawn to the idea as much as we were. We ended up one of the four films chosen to be made that year! People really love the idea.
What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
It was a great feedback video!I found it really interesting to see what aspects of the film jump out at people. The whole project is a lot less surprising and fresh for me because I worked on it for so long. Being able to hear people talk about the specific elements of the film that they found really unique, fresh and fun, reminds me of how great the project is, and how I felt the exact same way during the process.
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DARK ROOM, 11min., USA
Directed by Rogelio Robles
After losing everything, a man slowly and painfully loses his mind right before your eyes. Becoming the serial killer he was destined to be.
https://www.instagram.com/roy_horror_director/
Get to know the filmmaker:
What motivated you to make this film?
It was something that I felt I needed to make. Everyone deals with loss and depression differently. I wanted to get this out there and show my perspective on what it would look like for someone to slowly lose their mind.
What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
It’s awesome to get multiple viewpoints and interpretations of the film. Sometimes I hear something I didn’t quite think about before and I’m like wow that was actually awesome!
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GIN RUMMY, 17min., USA
Directed by Suzanne Baird
I’m excited to share our project made from love and friendship..
Three best friends have been playing Gin Rummy every week for over 50 years. On this Gin Rummy night they have made other plans as a final bonding of the trio.
Get to know the filmmaker Suzanne Baird:
What motivated you to make this film?
There were several motivators. The biggest was that my mother was dying from Dementia. It was an illness that she had for about 10 years and was in the final phases. At the same time, Roe V. Wade was repealed, and this required an examination of the question of choice on many levels. Do we have dominion over our bodies, male or female, to make choices about our health and existence.
What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
I was really gratified! They were so positive and thoughtful. It was a great
feature of your festival. So appreciated!!
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CHRISTMAS CREW, 7min., Canada
Directed by Moumita Das
“Christmas Crew – A Story About Collective Kindness” is a heartwarming documentary that follows the inspiring journey of John and Junie White, affectionately known as the Christmas Crew. What began as a simple act of generosity in their living room has blossomed into a remarkable community tradition, transforming the lives of many in Cape Breton’s Sydney and Glace Bay areas.
https://www.facebook.com/dasmoumita
Get to know the filmmaker:
What motivated you to make this film?
I am always drawn to human interest stories. They captivate me because of their realness, and I find immense joy in discovering and sharing the stories of real-life heroes. By pure coincidence, I came across the Christmas Crew, a group of kind-hearted people who spread joy during the holiday season by providing turkey dinners to those in need. Their generosity and compassion inspired me to create a film that would tell their story and share it with the world.
What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talk about your film in the feedback video?
The audience feedback was invaluable. I am incredibly grateful to everyone who took the time to watch and review my film. I was overjoyed that they appreciated my work, and winning the Best Human Interest Film award, as chosen by the audience, was a truly humbling experience.
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STUCK, 13min., USA
Directed by Emma Grace Lukens
A couple’s ambiguous relationship becomes slightly more clear as they lie on their living room floor, discussing their dating lives.
https://www.instagram.com/stuck.short.film/
Get to know the filmmaker:
What motivated you to make this film?
It started with the desire to direct Mary Frances Noser and Maximilien Blanc. Writing for the dynamic between such talented actors was a pleasure. As soon as I had a draft of the script I sent it to our cinematographer and editor, Raina Virginia. I am so lucky to have made this film with dear friends, including all those who would come on board to elevate our project.
What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
I was so proud to hear the audience’s feedback. What an honor to hear encouragement from those who have spent time with my art. To see and be seen by an audience for my work is so thrilling. Thank you for this entire experience. It means a great deal.
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QUITTING DRUGS, 20min., USA
Directed by Ali Imran Ch, Fatima Mughal
Bumb Shah is a Pakistani rapper whose traumatic life experiences heavily influence his music. Like many artists, he began using drugs early in his career, hoping that they would fuel his creativity. Before long, he fell into a rabbit hole of addiction-centered depravity, something that was reflected in his music.
Project Links
Conversation with:
Executive Producer Albert Crane
Co-Director Ali Imran Ch
Doc Subject/Musician Bumb Shah
Get to know Producer Albert Crane:
What motivated you to make this film?
Living in California at the time, there is a huge community of recovery institutions. I had learned about them and one of our Stories in Season 3 will be a Recovery doctor, so this story along with that one was an easy choice to make.
What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
Listening to people enjoy our work is amazing. I love the candid approach this festival takes on the feedback. I liked how they commented on the use of the filters to showcase time.
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MIHI: At the center of our gaze, 15min., France
Directed by Cyril Durand-Gasselin
Introspection is a mental activity which can be described metaphorically as the act of “looking inside” oneself, through a form of attention paid to one’s own sensations, states or thoughts. In psychology, this is the inner knowledge we have of our perceptions, actions, emotions and knowledge, which is different from that which an outside observer might have.
https://facebook.com/Compagnienos
https://instagram.com/compagnie_nos
Get to know the filmmaker:
What motivated you to make this film?
I wanted to show how important introspection has been for me in my life, and still is. It helped me grow so much. By giving this work to the world, I hope it will reminds everyone how important it is to take time to listen to yourself and to learn as much as you can from everything you can find inside.
What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
Honestly, I’ve got really touched and smiled all the way through the video. The comments were so nice and good but mostly really interesting. And it is really satisfying to hear comments from people that you don’t know that are coming from another country.
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THE BRIDES OF DRACULA, 5min,. UK
Directed by Alexander Miguel
Introducing a new breed of vampires – More alternative, more sensual, more dangerous. Loosely based on the legends of Draculas wives, the good, bad and the evil bride inhabit an old misty graveyard set in the high mountains, waiting for their beloved master to be resurrected once more. Inspired by original costumes and props by Derby-based designer Liam Brandon Murray, this is a unique film showcasing the finest in Wearable Art for the designer’s cinematic debut.
https://www.instagram.com/alezmigz/
Get to know the filmmaker:
What motivated you to make this film?
I had long wanted to do a fashion film based around vampires. I had initially envisioned a very dark classic victorian look, but when I found designer Liam Brandon Murray, a whole new world opened up to me. This was the most unconventional and bizarre kind of fashion I had ever seen the likes of. So intricate, so luxurious, yet so macabre and puzzling in it’s grandness. I knew that I had found something entirely unique and had access to a kind of innovative fashion that nobody else did. I thought to myself, I’ll be a real fool if I don’t jump on this opportunity! Liam and I clicked from the get-go, and it was clear that this would just be the start of many creative collaborations to come. I was able to pick and choose all my favourite pieces from his collection of work. We needed to piece together 4 complete looks and additionally threw in a few more items to showcase as much of Liam’s work as possible. His outfits carry heavy influences of otherworldly flair, his inspiration drawn from mythology, aliens and religious figures into a seamless blend.
What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
It is such an unreal feeling to have strangers speak about my work, they don’t know me or my team, so their perceptions and notions of the work are completely unbiased, raw and organic. People loved the surprising elements of lavish colour, which I think is rather unusual in the gothic genre. The fashion of course, gains a lot of wow-factor, and the fact it is put together like a music video, driven by sound and music rather than dialogue.
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KIDS OCEAN DAY / A LOVE PROJECT, 9min., USA
Directed by David Creech
A behind the scenes look at the the educational philosophy of Kids Ocean Day founder, Michael Klubock.
https://www.kidsoceanday.org/
https://www.facebook.com/kidsoceanday
https://twitter.com/kidsoceanday
https://www.instagram.com/kidsoceanday/
Get to know filmmaker David Kreech & Featured Cast Michael Klubock
What motivated you to make this film?
David: I participated in several KOD events and I felt compelled to tell the story of Michael and the volunteers and kids
What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
David: I felt the comments were accurate
Michael: I appreciated the time and effort to review the film and the kind words of support,
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RED, 5min., Canada
Directed by Marlea van Grinsven
Red depicts the story of a romance gone wrong, where paint is used to show the side revenge and how it slowly passes through everyone until revenge has taken over. It follows our couple as they work through their budding romance slowly getting more and more torn on the outcome as they go, until at the end, revenge wins and takes over.
http://www.movementwithmarlea.com/
https://instagram.com/_movementwithmarlea
Get to know the filmmaker:
What motivated you to make this film?
They always say that the best art comes from the worst trauma, and I was hoping it was right. I went through a very traumatic breakup and I wanted to turn a dark time in my life into something beautiful. Dance has always been how I’ve expressed myself and creating this film allowed me to process my trauma in a beautiful and creative way.
What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
I was overjoyed with emotion. It was an amazing experience to hear people talking about my film and loving it. I always fear that the audience won’t get my story but to hear that they understood the story behind it and appreciated the difficulty of execution to create this film was delightful.
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WHEN I’M WITH YOU, 4min., Canada
Directed by Kanja Chen
An emotional tale of how the enduring love between a young boy and his grandfather bridges the gap between generations.
https://www.instagram.com/kanjachen/
Kanja has directed several award-winning short films that have been showcased at numerous film festivals. This animated short marks his directorial debut in the genre, allowing him to focus on a deeply personal story.
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