RIOTS VS. TSUNAMIS, 6min., USA
Directed by Robyn Killian
When faced with the wreckage in which several local business owner’s life’s work, their shops, were set ablaze and reduced to rubble after protests had devolved into riots in the Los Angeles' Melrose District, occasioned by the death of George Floyd, a black man, at the hands of a white police officer in late May 2020, I used the artistic mediums of experimental filmmaking and sound collage to document and express my grief by comparing the effects of two types of disasters, riots and tsunamis.

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Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

I made this film to work through my feelings after witnessing the destruction of my neighborhood, The Melrose District of Los Angeles after the George Floyd Riots of 2020. Everything changed. My safety and security was shattered. I felt like this one other time; In 1994 when the Northridge earthquake demolished my home. Since a riot is man-made the destruction feels more insidious than that of a natural disaster.

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

Because I made this film as coursework while studying at USC film school It is a bit difficult to answer how long it took to make it.

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

I would describe my film in the following two words: "Emotional Catharsis."

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

The most formidable challenge I encountered during the completion of this film was the emotional journey of revisiting the profound pain that engulfed my community in the aftermath of the George Floyd riots. Witnessing the devastation inflicted upon local businesses and the shattered morale of my neighbors was not only heartbreaking but also deeply personal. Navigating through these raw emotions while striving to capture the essence of our shared experiences was a profound test of resilience and empathy.

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

Upon witnessing the audience's reactions in the feedback video, I was deeply moved by the genuine appreciation expressed for various aspects of the film. One reviewer astutely recognized the meticulous craftsmanship behind the video editing, acknowledging it as the shining star of the piece. Another viewer's admiration for the seamless intertwining of themes resonated deeply, affirming the depth of thought put into the narrative structure. The vibrant colors and masterful sound editing were lauded for their immersive quality, with the music design hailed as a pivotal element in elevating the film to a higher realm of artistic expression.

Furthermore, the acknowledgment of the film's uniqueness and its ability to captivate the senses was humbling. To hear that the carefully constructed structure was perceived as dynamic and compelling was immensely gratifying, affirming the countless hours dedicated to crafting a seamless viewing experience. Moreover, to have the film described as clever, thought-provoking, and heartrending underscored its power to evoke a range of emotions and spark meaningful dialogue.

Most importantly, the recognition that the film offered a fresh perspective and shed light on a different set of victims was deeply meaningful. Knowing that it succeeded in raising awareness and fostering empathy from a unique vantage point filled me with a profound sense of purpose and gratitude. To receive such valuable feedback from the audience was truly an honor, reaffirming the impact and significance of the work.

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

Upon choosing film as the medium for a final project in a course I was taking, I had a revelation: filmmaking was the natural evolution of my artistic expression.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life? The film I have seen most in my life is, "It's a Wonderful Life" 1946, closely followed by "Cinema Paradiso" 1988. Both serve as poignant reminders of the profound love I hold for movies.

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 appreciate the Feedback videos. They provide an opportunity for filmmakers to learn how their films are received by audiences . Additionally, festivals could help filmmakers to find interesting opportunities for distribution to gain exposure for their films.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site? My experience with working on the FilmFreeway site has been advantageous. It allows me to have a central place for my projects and easy access to search festivals that are a good fit for my movies.

10. What is your favorite meal? I'm a foodie and enjoy most cuisines, therefore, I dont have one favorite.

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

What's next for me? I've been working on another very personal project that I am not quite ready to share.