THREEDOM, 7min,. USA
Directed by Garrett Hopkins
A young couple finds themselves lost in their own relationship. Brought to frustration and confusion one of them shares the idea of an open relationship. Reluctantly the partner agrees and actually travels a new road learning about themself. Perhaps they just needed to find each other, in someone new.

https://www.youtube.com/@GarrettHopkinsMedia
https://www.instagram.com/garretthopkinsmedia/

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

This film was produced for the 2024 CFC (Collaboration Filmmakers Challenge). A two week filmmaking competition with a quote from Hunter S. Thompson as the only prompt "Freedom is something that dies if it isn't used" With every project I do, I want there to be something new for me. I've never written a RomCom before, so I decided I'd take that quote and see how I might be able to find its relevance in the complex world of interpersonal relationships.

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

Two weeks. That's the joy of time trial filmmaking competitions. You finish a film and you finish it fast. I'd love for more time, like how so many of my colleagues' personal passion projects go. But a lot of times those projects never see the finish line. They get left unattended as "great ideas" or take years to just never get finished because it's on their back burner while they're busy with work, family, life etc...

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

"That's real"

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

Having to finish it in two weeks. The birth of the idea, the writing, the casting, all of production and post production.

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

I think you know when you've written a very believable and relatable script when someone reviewing your film eventually stops reviewing it and more so stumbles down the rabbit hole of the story. And opens up about their own understanding and experience with the film's plot.

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

In grade school late (2000's) I was filming and posting skateboarding and parkour videos to YouTube. In college I started a vlog channel. Halfway through college I was more properly introduced to filmmaking. And joined several film clubs. Therefore, I've always been a director/editor. And junior year of college (2019) is when I wrote/directed my first film.

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

Finding Nemo.

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

The only experience I missed out on was actually attending. It's called the LGBTQ+ Toronto & Los Angeles Film Festival. I could not attend a screening in Canada, and am unsure if they will screen at LA as well. But I would attend if they do!

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

It's currently the only way I've ever submitted to festivals. I could be wrong, but I believe that it's the main, easiest, and straightforward way to fest your films.

10. What is your favorite meal?

Grilled brats/veggies, potato salad, ice cold beer in the sun.

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

I directed 4 films this year, and several small client video projects. In 2025, I might try my hand at making a documentary. I have a great idea lined up, everyone I've pitched it to has instantly understood and liked the idea. The 4 films I made this year were all made in 2-14 days. Very rushed, time trialed, pieces of art. And I feel like I can never 100% showcase my best abilities in that environment. I think I might take 2025, to slowly and carefully make my first documentary.