MARCYLINE - THE CLEARING MUSIC VIDEO, 4min., USA, Music
Directed by Margot Piorkowski
In this experimental music video for Marcyline's debut single, moody visuals contrast the dark lyricism, portraying the fear of a dark presence following him.

https://www.margotpiorkowski.com/work/films

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
- I've always loved the fun process of making music videos, and the wonderful worlds you can create through music. Therefore when Chris Paraggio (aka Marcyline) came up with his new song The Clearing, I thought it'd be a very interesting film to create through his dark and experimental lyricism.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
- We started brainstorming ideas a few months before shooting. The entire production took us 6 months to arrive at a finished product we were proud of.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
- Eerie & Experiential

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
- One of the biggest obstacles was during the editing process. We wanted to create a dark atmosphere while keeping the viewers engaged throughout. Thus, it was all a question of pacing in the end. We had to play with the long, experiential shots, while adding rhythm to the story and film. Overall I think the desired pace was achieved, and playing around in the editing room definitely helped to come up with the final video.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
I thought it was super interesting that a lot of people mentioned the lighting. It was definitely a very important part of creating the eeriness in the film, and I'm glad that it came through so well. I was really pleased with the overall feedback, and I think that people really understood the message & feel of the film.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
I was lucky to be brought up in a family where we traveled a lot, and I remember always asking my dad for any camera he had during these trips. I always wanted to document everything. I really loved filming my different travel experiences, and that's when I realized I could come up with stories as well, to convey my artistic visions. That's where it started, and from then on I started writing short films, slowly discovering myself as an artist.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
500 days of summer. I love the experimental nature of this film while still being a narrative piece, and that's what I strive for in my own work.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
Possibly adding a Q&A type feedback, in order for the directors to ask questions to the audience. I think that would be super useful to get additional thoughts and feedback with the audience.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
It's been really great, it's super easy and straightforward!

10. What is your favorite meal?
It's a french meal in my region, called Tartiflette (it's a super fatty meal with potatoes, bacon and melted cheese!)

11. What is next for you? A new film?
I'm currently in the process of writing a new short film. It's an experimental short dance film. Can't say too much, but it's coming soon!