BREAKING OUT, 6min,. USA
Directed by David Glass
“Breaking Out” is centered around a tumultuous piano improvisation David Glass recorded several years ago. The short film is a psychological rollercoaster containing a variety of footage that express a wide range of intense emotions and strong forces of nature, and yet there is a beauty to the chaos. As in a ballet, the music is in synchronicity with the dramatic scenes.

http://davidglasspiano.net/

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

Purely a catharsis project. Most of my past videos have been creative slideshows using my romantic piano music (can be found on Youtube). "Breaking Out" was a one off project where I decided to make a video that expressed a darker side of myself. I was going through some personal life transitions and just needed to purge some of the frustration out of myself. I didn't make it for the public or film festivals but strictly for myself. When I shared my video with my close friend Ron White (designer of my poster) he mentioned I should submit it to film festivals. I was reluctant at first but he eventually persuaded me and so I entered "Breaking Out" into a dozen of festivals. To my surprise the film was being well received. In the past few months I have entered dozens of other festivals and to my surprise the film has won 18 awards to date!

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

I'd say between 1-2 months.

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

Intense release!

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

Finding the right images to match my original piano music. Truth be known, if I were to make it again, I'd probably find different images.

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

I was feeling excited, nervous and honored. I've never experienced anything like this. I was so thrilled that all three commentators were complimentary of my music! I only wished they could hear some of my other romantic piano music so that they don't think I'm Frankenstein at the piano! Emoji

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

It was a gradual process. It began during the Covid lockdown when I decided to make some music videos using professional photos. I also created during that time a movie called BOOTLEG THE MOVIE (a film that features myself and pianist Justin Levitt where it showcases live performances of us doing 4 hand piano improvisations that occurred over the past 10 years).

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

Lord of the Rings-2001 Space Odyessey-Amadeaus

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'd say your doing an amazing service and can't think of anything else that needs improving.

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

So far it's been amazing! 18 Award winners, 2 finalist, 17 Semi-Finalist (many still inconclusive), 3 Honorable mentions. Did not expect this at all!

10. What is your favorite meal?

I have many, but I do love Italian and Indian food! Emoji

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

I'd love to make a music video using some of my more conventional piano pieces. Would need funding to do this.