STRUGGLE, 5min., Armenia
Directed by David Babasiev
In the remote mountains a family facing intense challenges as the mother and their prized cow approach childbirth simultaneously.

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
I've always wanted to showcase the reality of the struggle that many face. This film is a reflection of that desire, aiming to shed light on the raw, often unseen challenges people endure. How people are capable of facing two challenges at the same time and going through that.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
From the initial idea to the final cut, 'Struggle' came together in just over a month. We dedicated a month to planning every detail, spent a day shooting, and then invested a week in post-production to bring our vision to life.

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

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
The biggest obstacle we encountered during the making of 'Struggle' was capturing a specific scene involving a cow giving birth. It was crucial for the narrative, but finding the right moment proved challenging. Eventually, we located the perfect cow in the midst of labor. However, on the day of shooting, we faced another hurdle when our car got stuck in the snow. Thankfully, the locals came to our aid, allowing us to reach the location just in time. With only an hour to spare, we managed to film the scene, overcoming both logistical and natural obstacles to bring this pivotal moment to life in the final version of the film.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
Watching the audience feedback video was incredibly rewarding for me. I was particularly pleased to hear viewers noticing and appreciating the specific details and themes that I aimed to highlight in the film. It was fascinating to see the diverse interpretations of my ideas and how they resonated with different people. Additionally, receiving positive feedback about the shots and cinematography was especially gratifying, as it validated the creative choices and efforts of the entire team involved in bringing the vision to life. Overall, it was a fulfilling experience to witness the impact of the film on the audience and to hear their insights and reactions.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
My passion for filmmaking was sparked during my childhood when my uncle gifted me a camera. From that moment on, I found myself viewing the world through the lens, captivated by the idea of capturing moments and crafting narratives. The ability to create my own world within the frame ignited a deep-seated desire to pursue filmmaking as a form of self-expression and storytelling. Since then, I've been driven by the profound impact that film can have on both creators and audiences alike.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
The films I've watched the most in my life are "La La Land" and "Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri." They both hold a special place in my heart for different reasons, from the mesmerizing musical sequences and heartfelt performances in "La La Land" to the gripping storytelling and powerful characters in "Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri." Both films have left a lasting impression on me, drawing me back to rewatch and rediscover their magic time and time again.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
Networking events where filmmakers can connect and share ideas would be incredibly helpful. Having designated spaces or online platforms for networking, along with panels or workshops where we can learn from industry experts and meet fellow filmmakers, would be fantastic additions to the festival experience.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
Working with FilmFreeway has been a breeze. The platform is user-friendly, making the submission process smooth and hassle-free. I've found it to be a great tool for managing festival submissions, and I've even taken the time to leave a review sharing my positive experience with the platform.

10. What is your favorite meal?
Armenian "brduj"!
Just cheese with estragon wrapped in lavash bread!

11. What is next for you? A new film?
I'm currently in the pre-production phase of my next film, which is set to begin shooting in August this year. It delves into the dynamics of relationships, focusing on the arc from initial warmth and perfection to eventual heartbreak. I'm eager to bring this narrative to life and explore the complexities of human connections on screen.