A HARMONY OF TOUCH: THE HIGH-FIVE, HANDSHAKE, AND HUG, 3min., USA, Experimental
Directed by Kristyna Archer
Human connection thru physical touch are as critical to our survival as a species as is the air that we breathe. Standing the test of time, these visceral, bodily, mortal connections remind us we are still alive. Synchronicity being the master. Firmness being the gauge. Vulnerability being the superpower. Without them, we are powerless. I leave you with, the undeniable forces of nature found in the hive five, handshake, and hug.

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
a deep desire inside that was wrestling with losing touch with touch for so long during the pandemic.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
the music took the longest, overall because I didn't have the budget to rush it through post, it took about 7 months to nail down the edit and music composition to a perfect harmony.

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

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
The music was the biggest challenge, I had something in my head, yet it really needed a complex music composition that could not be sourced and needed to be composed which I didn't originally budget for. Because originally I wanted a playfulness, and awkwardness really to come through all the way like 2 beings from another universe learning and experimenting with these forms of communication, yet upon watching the hug sequence after we shot, I realized it was not possible to take the emotion & intimacy out of those moments, so I need a track that transformed from playful lighthearted to deeply intimate. The visuals were more complex and truly has a turning point I wanted recognized in the track, that I wasn't expecting before.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
So excited that you captured these for me to review, its one of the most valuable things to hear what people take away from your film. Everyone focused on something specific that spoke to them, and I love how many different views I heard from the audience, and how it impacted them in unique ways.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
I have wanted to make it since mid 2021, it was itching in my psyche. Then finally I made it happen in Jan 2022.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
Honestly probably Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, and the complexities and jarring juxtaposition of the magic and darkness always intrigued me.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
IRL experience, but I am very impressed with all the press and additional support like interviews you provide for the filmmakers which makes a huge different

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
Easy, its always been very easy and a fluid way for my to get my film out there in the world.

10. What is your favorite meal?
I'm a big breakfast person, and when I'm feeling like a treat I love waffles with bananas and berries.

11. What is next for you? A new film?
I am working through a few ideas, 1 mainly is about a friend seeking advice. That is likely what's immediately next.