STOP BEFORE THE SYSTEM FAILS, 4min., Russia
Directed by Pavel Greenkevich
The video contains a message about the devastating consequences of neglecting rest. The main character, while dancing, shows different aspects of work life and the constant need to impress. As the video progresses, her dancing becomes more intense, chaotic, which symbolizes the enormous amount of tasks that the main character faces. The author draws the viewer's attention to the fact that a lack of balance between work and rest can lead to detrimental consequences for mental health.

Get to know writer/producer Xenia Ba:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
I think my inner perfectionist motivated me to make the film. Dancing is my hobby. I try different dance styles and make short videos. One day I wanted something more and better than only recording learned movements to music. So, I came up with the idea of combining several different styles in one performance. And, in order for this performance to look harmonious, it was necessary to combine these dance styles with one common theme that would be understandable to any viewer of working age (wide audience). The bustle of city life and its impact on people seemed quite relevant to me. The classic problem here is that in trying to get more out of life, we must not forget to simply live in the here and now.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
I spent about seven months developing the idea for the finished product. It was necessary to work out the script in detail to make the idea work, record suitable music that would go well with completely different styles, select choreography and learn a new one, some time was spent searching for a video director and coordinating working moments with him, and much more. Pavel immediately liked my idea and my vision, so we began working on creating this film. It was also important for me to make a video recording so that the picture in my head matched to the picture on the screen, so working with the video material also took a long time. I only worked on the film in my free time, so it took more time than it could have. But I liked the whole process.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
If only in two words, then "A dance of life".

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
The biggest obstacle we faced was the music score. I spent a very long time looking for a suitable sound in different stores. At first, I did not want to contact recording studios, because I did not understand what exactly I wanted, but in the end Pavel, the video director of the film, suggested that his friend try to write a track to my requirements. Not immediately, but it turned out to be what I needed. I was incredibly happy after the next demo to hear what I wanted to hear.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
I had a smile from ear to ear and a feeling of happiness. This is my first work. I have already participated in festivals with this film a couple of times, but this is the first detailed feedback I have received. It was especially nice to hear those moments that Pavel and I discussed when creating the film, that is, the audience read the main points of the film. And in general, the audience spoke very warmly about the work. I really enjoyed it. Although I am one of those persons who calmly accepts criticism and then works on the gaps.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
A few years ago, I learned screenwriting courses. Then I thought that it would be great to make a film based on my own script. Now in my free time I continue to write. The dance film "Stop before the system fails" is my first released work. But at the moment I work on two more of my projects, my desire gradually turns into reality. It is amazing.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
Back to the Future or Home Alone. When I was a child, I watched these films one after another, over and over again, hundreds of times. I think Interstellar is in the lead in my adult life. I watched this film three or four times.

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 think streaming the film on your platforms is a great promotion opportunity. I also like the idea of reviews.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
This platform is quite easy to use and is filled with various features. I like it. But in my opinion, the only thing missing is a mobile app.

10. What is your favorite meal?
Greek salad I guess

11. What is next for you? A new film?
Yes, I am currently working on two projects, one of them is a dance film again.