BROOMSTICKS ON BROADWAY, 5min., UK
Directed by Gordon Howie
In this whimsical short animated musical, Fellinda Cauldron is inspired by the moon to make a magical dancing potion. Can she over come her doubts and complete her bubbling brew? Broomsticks on Broadway celebrates the joyful aspects of the creative process; paying homage to MGM musicals and old Hollywood glamour with a spooky twist.

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
I was inspired by the short film program at the character festival, Pictoplasma. Myself and fellow animator, Qais Sarhan, decided to make our first short films together and hold each other accountable throughout our respective productions. My goal was to create a gift for my inner child, whilst also showcasing my technical skillset and creative style.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
The film took 8 months to make; 4.5 in development. Then 3.5 months of animation.

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

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
Endurance was the biggest challenge. Staying engaged and motivated on a solo production of this scale for 8 months became really draining. Having Qais as an accountability partner helped me stay focussed to the end - and I don't think it would've got finished if it wasn't for his motivation!

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
It's so lovely and a bit surreal. I'm still coming to terms with the fact I have actually finished the film and to see other people are watching and enjoying it is really nice.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
Around the age of 8-9, the after-school club at my school ran a short filmmaking class and I immediate fell in love with the medium. By the age of 10, I was making short films with my friends every other weekend and this carried on into my secondary school years and late teens. Filmmaking and stories have been a huge part of my life and I knew I wanted to pursue it as a career.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
Probably Wallace and Gromit and the Wrong Trousers or Emperor's New Groove. Those films were/are hugely influential to me!

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
Broomsticks is my film festival debut, so I don't really have the info or experience yet to answer this one.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
It's been good so far - a little overwhelming trying to find and research each festival. But overall I really like the ease of use, and having everything available in one place makes it easier to manage.

10. What is your favorite meal?
This is a tough question. I'm a big fan of Asian fusion food - Thai or Malayasian base is so rich and tasty. Maybe a beef rendang or spicy peanut curry - with garlic and chilli brocolli on the side!

11. What is next for you? A new film?
Next, I'd love to showcase my narrative skills and also explore something darker in both tone and style. Something gothic and fantastical...