WILDFIRE, 2min., USA, Animation
Directed by Peter Hriso

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

Music has been a great motivator for me, especially when I experiment with combining it with animation. Additionally, I find myself driven by concerns about the state of our planet's climate and the pollution that seems to be affecting the world as a whole.

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

This animated film was created after several months of studying and experimenting. Multiple small studies were conducted until the final direction was chosen and I felt comfortable with it.

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

Firey Motion

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

As an artist, I face two main challenges in creating my work. Firstly, I need the necessary hardware for creating and especially rendering, which can be quite expensive. Secondly, I struggle to find consistent time every day to work on my art. Creating work requires a lot of investigation, study, and nurturing, so I need to make sure that I consistently work and be in the right mindset to work.

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

It was fascinating to listen to other people's perspectives on the piece. Their preferences and excitement for the work piqued my interest. It seems like more exploration into different creative methods is needed in this direction, and I hope that my next work receives recognition from others as well.

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

I have always had a great admiration for film as it brings together different art forms to create something truly unique. Even though I had an interest in art and film from an early age, it wasn't until much later in my career that I began to explore the world of animated films, particularly those created using 3D technology. It was a time when 3D was still in its infancy, even before the release of Toy Story. During my graduate studies at ACCAD, I was fortunate enough to be exposed to this groundbreaking technology, which was still very much in its pioneering stage. This proved to be an incredibly enriching and inspiring period of my life, and I learned so much from the experience. I was also fortunate enough to work alongside great artists such as Chuck Cusri, who is considered a pioneering grandfather of the 3D art world.

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

Although it may seem surprising, I often find myself re-watching Casablanca and Blade Runner, both of which are live-action movies. I enjoy watching both animated and non-animated movies.

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 am grateful that you are willing to showcase non-narrative, abstract experimental films. Please continue to remain open to displaying these films so that we can have a platform to reach out to audiences. Not all film festivals will accommodate non-narrative work, which is a crucial aspect to consider and certainly makes this festival special.

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

Overall, my experience has been positive. However, my only real concern is understanding the festival's size and the community it aims to benefit. Sometimes, the written call for a festival does not clearly specify which community it is targeting.

10. What is your favorite meal?

Lefse - a potato flatbread.

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

      Yes, a new film. I consistently explore concepts and produce visuals to articulate them.