CROSSING, 3min., Italy
Directed by Alessia Ambrosini
Late evening in Tokyo. A man is on his way home on the subway after a day's work, lost in his daily routine. Suddenly there is an explosion. The man is catapulted into another dimension.

https://filmitalia.org/en/film/324/207005/

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

This short film came about almost by chance. I was in Japan to promote a feature documentary about the connections between Japan and Abruzzo (an Italian region) when I was struck by the country's colors and beauty—where everything is in harmony. Crossing was born from the spontaneous organization of images I captured with my smartphone during my journey, which later shaped a story. A story that prompts reflection and offers multiple interpretations.

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

It was a very fast process—less than a month from concept to completion.

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

Psychedelic, spiritual. It's a short film that invites reflection on the afterlife and on God—metaphorically represented by the old man in the film who flies and then retrieves the kites, symbolizing souls.

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

None, fortunately.

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

I was fascinated by the different interpretations and nuances that each person perceived in the film.

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

I've always loved storytelling, ever since I was a child. Cinema became my means of doing so. In 2017, following a corporate restructuring, the company I was consulting for did not renew my contract. I took that as an opportunity to pursue my passions and train professionally in filmmaking.

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

Dangerous Liaisons by Stephen Frears.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?

This festival is already perfect as it is!

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?

A very positive experience! FilmFreeway is extremely user-friendly.

10. What is your favorite meal?

Pizza!

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

I am currently working on a short film that is almost entirely created using digital technologies, both in scene creation and soundtrack composition.