ATLS, 11min., Canada
Directed by Mishka Balilty
In a dystopian future where a powerful elite class prolongs their lives by exploiting young women for their babies' organs, two women, find themselves on the run from their oppressors. Desperate to escape a fate of forced impregnation and organ extraction, they flee to a remote cabin. Their refuge becomes a sanctuary where they share their dreams and fears, finding solace in each other’s company. However, their fleeting happiness is overshadowed by the ever-looming threat of capture. Their love story, which began in desperation and hope, culminates in a tragic and devastating finale. ATLS is a powerful exploration of love, freedom, and the inescapable shadows of a world that seeks to tear them apart.

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Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
I was inspired by Romeo and Juliet one day while listening to the soundtrack from the movie, I started to see this film come to life in my mind. I always loved the reading the play when I was younger... and so I began writing a tragic love story and soon I had a script.

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

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

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
I don't think there was anything super big. But the person who was going to play Arielle's role dropped out. However, it was very early in the process. And I cannot imagine the film without Arielle.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
I was very nervous how it would be received. But I was overjoyed to see that people understood our creative vision and enjoyed the film.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films? When I was ten maybe even younger. I love movies and I have always loved the art of storytelling. When I hear music, I see visuals in my head. It's what I am meant to do.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life? That's a hard question but there are three ( Beetlejuice, Drop dead Fred, Girls just want to have fun).

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 having a meet and greet even if its via zoom or almost zoom speed dating, but for filmmakers. Would be helpful to meet others in the industry.

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

10. What is your favorite meal? Fresh rolls ( I dream of them)

11. What is next for you? A new film?
I hope so. I have written a lot. I would like to create a new project. I also want to direct a music video.