A WORLD OF MIRRORS, 8min., USA
Directed by Giuseppe Masi
Lorenzo struggles with the aftermath of coming out to his parents causing a downward spiral into the depth of self acceptance.

https://www.worldofmirrorsmovie.com/

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

It's based on a short story written by Lorenzo Donvito, also the actor in the film.
I was inspired by the "visual" quality of the story and we worked together to find the elements we could translate into a short.
But the main motivation was the challenge of approaching it in a more experimental way, making the character talk through visual and sound elements with minimal narration. I wanted it to feel like a visceral experience.

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

One week prep mainly revolving around finding the right locations between NYC and upstate NY.
3 days production. And overall 3 months post with VFX and Sound Design taking the most out of the schedule.

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

That's tough. This is more of a hopeful description: sensorial journey.

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

Sound Design. We didn't really have much of a budget for post so I ended up working on the design while I was editing.
The Mirror is a character throughout and I wanted to create an expressive "voice" for it. Something that could be recognized on and off screen.
And that was a lengthy process of testing different sounds in combination with reverb effects.

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

Being a short experimental piece, you never know what to expect.
I was happy to hear that it was overall received as an intriguing execution and that cinematography and sound made a positive impact.

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

Since I was 7 (thanks to Jurassic Park) with various degrees of interest.
I started with wanting to work in VFX, then editing and landed in production.

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

Once Upon a Time in America by Sergio Leone.

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'm already impressed by the options you are currently offering to filmmakers to increase visibility.

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

It makes festival submissions so easy and straightforward. So it's always a great experience.

10. What is your favorite meal?

Brunch

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

I work mainly as DP so I'm in prep for a few narrative projects shooting next year.
At the same time, I'm always on the lookout for directing opportunities. So reading scripts and challenging myself to writing more often.