REZAR, 28min., USA
Directed by Walter Carlos Garcia
Bad things happen when four friends come across a cellar door in the woods.

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
The survival horror game genre was the main inspiration to the atmosphere of REZAR. Body cam footage and liminal space games have a whole subculture of fans that live to be immersed in that style of story. The aim was to hit a similar aesthetics and mood, but by still holding the holy grail of making films by the way of the camera.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
One month to write it, 6 weeks of prep, 2 rehearsal days, 5 shooting days, and one month of post production.

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

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
Making sure the aesthetic and performances didn't become too campy.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
It was a treat to see the reactions. I am deeply grateful to those who invested their time to watch and provide such insightful feedback. The aim is to entertain, and I'm pleased that REZAR has managed to resonate with some.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
I stumbled into filming during my high school years, and it immediately became clear to me that the world of film is where I wanted to be.

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

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
The experience has been great so far. I appreciate a festival with such consistency that really helps push the filmmakers forward.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
FilmFreeway has been stellar. Very efficient and easy to organize.

10. What is your favorite meal?
PIZZA

11. What is next for you? A new film?
Starting to write a horror feature that has to do with firefighters.