NAVIGATING THE NIGHT, 10min., USA
Directed by Erin M. Aler
A young Soldier participates in a routine training mission, where her failures lead to a predicament for her morals to come to question

https://www.instagram.com/navigating_the_night

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

The major motivation was wanting the experience of directing. I really enjoy the creative process of developing an idea into a full fledged concept. As I dedicated more time and energy to the project, the more I was determined to see it finished. At one point I found myself saying "if I can't do this live action, I'll just animate it myself."

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

Three years over all, bordering on four years. There were many drafts throughout the years, and the fund raising took some time as well. Luckily when we filmed everyone was available due to the writers strike.

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

Real-world Horror

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

Funds. Funds were a major obstacle. We had to overcome a lot. It delayed our original shoot dates. Everyone was out of work because of the strikes. I ended up having to turn to starting a Kickstarter campaign. A lot of work went into just promoting, creating content, and raising awareness for the Kickstarter. Luckily we were able to reach our campaign goals and were able to pay for the equipment, cast, crew, and provide food and lodging for them.

There are always obstacles when it comes to filming itself. We found a few ourselves during and post shoot. I think our team worked so well together that when there was an issue we worked through it and found a solution.

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

Building up to watching the audience feedback I was really nervous. It's really vulnerable putting yourself out there like this. I wasn't sure if the message I wanted to get across would be picked up or received well. When watching the audience feedback, I was pleasantly surprised, almost over joyed, to hear how they really resonated with the film and its message. It made me feel confident in the product we produced.

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

Around middle school. Growing up, because my family is so big, going to the movies together was a treat. For Christmas my family would go see a movie. It really bonded us. I realized that film is something that brings people together, and later on that it is one of the best art platforms for collaborating. As I got older and older, I've found a passion for telling stories and expanding my imagination.

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

The Lord of the Rings Trilogy, specifically the extended edition. When I go home for the holidays it is now tradition that we watch the whole thing. We even debate if we should add The Hobbit into the mix.

I feel like it's that or A Christmas Carol from 1984 with George C. Scott. Just because that's our Christmas tradition to watch since as long as I can remember.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?

I really enjoyed the audience feedback portion of this festival. It was really enlightening hearing what they thought about the film, and their critique. If there were to be any other elements added, possibly the judges critique about why they chose the films. Overall I had a wonderful experience with Horror Film & Screenplay Fest.

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

FilmFreeway has made it so easy to submit to all different types of festivals. Which has been so helpful. Especially with this being the first film festival run I've ever done. I highly recommend anyone trying to get their film out there to use the platform.

10. What is your favorite meal?

As of right now, yellow Thai curry with mango sticky rice for dessert.

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

As of right now I do have a few projects in the queue that I want to develop and produce. I have another completed short film script that'll soon be in the works, and I am currently working on my first full length feature script. If you're interested to see how they develop, stay tuned because more to come.