NOVA, 7min., USA
Directed by Noah Guardado
In the year 2468, Jackson, a seasoned bounty hunter, finds himself in dire straits when his partner mysteriously vanishes. Struggling with financial difficulties, Jackson reluctantly accepts a risky job offer to track down an elusive criminal. Set in a futuristic world with elements of sci-fi and cyberpunk, NOVA explores themes of identity and betrayal amidst a backdrop of advanced technology and quirky characters.

https://www.instagram.com/nova_themovie/

Get to know the filmmaker:

1.) What motivated you to make this film?

I would say my love for the 90's Anime "Cowboy Bebop". I knew I wanted to make something that resonated with people who also appreciate that sort of Jazzy Sci Fi noir style of storytelling. Making films that I love with the people I love is always the goal!

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

NOVA took around 10 months to create total - we spent around 3 months on pre-production and finalizing the story, 3 solid days to film, and around 7 months on post production. A labor of love forsure!

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

Surprisingly charming!

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

Ooo fun fact: Our two leads (Jackson & Vex) had very conflicting schedules, so they were never actually on set at the same time. This was a bit of a wrench in the system for the conclusion of the story that demands these two characters meet face to face. With that being said, I'm still really happy with how it turned out!

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

Oh geez, at first extremely nervous, but after hearing what everyone had to say, I was pleasantly surprised! It is a surreal feeling to hear people talk about how they experienced something you made, and even more surreal to hear how it connected with them. Truly loved their input!

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

I've always had a passion for filmmaking for as long as I can remember. I still reminisce about the silly videos me and my friends made on FLIP cameras back in the day! But I will say that after I first watched "Scott Pilgrim vs. The World", that was when I truly realized the infinite possibilities of what a film can be.

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

Definitely Back to the Future, my all time favorite!

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 this festival especially has been fantastic, and has been very generous in its offerings to those accepted. I think personally it would be great to have more in person events to meet other filmmakers and enjoyers if possible in the future.

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

Film freeway is great. Very clear, concise, and offers all of the tools necessary for filmmakers to fully celebrate the piece of work they've created.

10.) What is your favorite meal?

Tough one...let's say a huge pile of steak quesadillas!

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

I am very happy to announce that we will be producing a new horror short film this year, to be released in 2025. Super excited for that. A lot of people have also asked if there is more in store when it comes to the world of NOVA, and to that I say, yup, the next one is already written! I'm also usually working on silly animations for my YouTube channel in the meantime.