UNCOMPLICATED, 18min., USA, Romance/Relationship
Directed by Juliet A Romeo
Uncomplicated is a short film about self-discovery and self-love when living with a disability. The protagonist, Claire, has sickle cell disease and is nervous about disclosing this information to her date Paul. Rather than be completely honest with him, she hides her oxygen machine - a source of embarrassment for her - in an attempt to have a "normal" date.

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

What inspired me to create this film was a profound desire to shed light on the often-overlooked aspects of our daily lives that we tend to take for granted. In particular, I wanted to delve into the intricacies of something as seemingly mundane as preparing for a date and explore the stark contrasts in the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. By delving into this subject matter, my aim was to evoke empathy and understanding while raising awareness about the unique struggles and triumphs experienced by those with disabilities in their pursuit of love and connection.

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

This film was a passion project that I worked on for a few years. I attempted to produce it back in 2017 and made so many mistakes in pre-production and post-production. What I learned from that experience was never to compromise my vision.

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

Captivating metamorphosis.

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

The biggest obstacle was the projection montage scene. We had a hard time finding a location for the scene. We needed a large space with a blank wall big enough to project the pre-shot images onto the actors. We also needed to time those images just right to go along with the dialogue. This was my first time attempting this technique; despite the difficulties, we managed to overcome the challenges and achieve a visually compelling sequence that added depth and richness to the film.

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

My initial reaction was a profound sense of relief. I had been filled with nervous anticipation; witnessing the diverse range of people expressing their resonance with the film was incredibly gratifying. It affirmed that I had succeeded in creating a connection with the audience and that my intentions had translated effectively onto the screen. It was a moment of validation, reassuring me that my creative choices and storytelling had resonated with others and that I had indeed achieved the desired impact with this project.

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

The realization that I wanted to make films came to me when I recognized the importance of sharing stories that featured positive representation. It was a significant turning point for me when I realized the power of film as a medium to raise awareness, foster understanding, and challenge misconceptions. Understanding the impact that storytelling through film can have on shaping perspectives and promoting empathy, I felt a deep calling to utilize this art form to shed light on the experiences of individuals living with sickle cell disease. This realization fueled my passion and ignited a strong desire within me to embark on a filmmaking journey dedicated to creating meaningful narratives that highlight underrepresented communities and advocate for greater inclusivity in our society.

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

"Boomerang"! This film holds a special place in my heart. Its captivating blend of romance, comedy, and sharp social commentary makes it a timeless classic.

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 it's important for all festivals to implement accessibility and amplify voices from underserved and underrepresented communities.

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

FilmFreeway has been an invaluable platform for me to manage my submissions and discover festivals that align with my projects. The user-friendly interface and intuitive submission process make it convenient and efficient to navigate through the platform. The ability to create a profile, upload project details, and submit to multiple festivals simultaneously saves time and streamlines the submission process.

10. What is your favorite meal?

I'm a foodie, and I love to try new kinds of food, but I will never pass up my Trinidadian cuisine. Roti and Doubles are so good.

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

I'm thrilled to share that I'm currently immersed in the exciting phase of development. This season is brimming with possibilities as I passionately work on a television pilot that explores relationships and crime narratives. Simultaneously, I'm producing my very first feature documentary film, which marks a significant milestone in my filmmaking journey. The anticipation and creative energy surrounding these projects are palpable, and I am dedicated to pouring my heart and soul into bringing them to fruition. With each endeavor, I aim to ignite the imagination of audiences and deliver meaningful storytelling experiences that resonate long after the final credits roll. As I embark on this next chapter, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities ahead and the chance to continue pursuing my passion for filmmaking.