Cannes Short Film Corner - Motel
This is a short story set on one night in a Motel in a small town or any other forgotten part of the world. One can't move, the other can't stop.
Interview with Writer/Director/Producer Lauren Porteous
Congratulations! Why did you make your film?
I recently grew a pair of balls and after writing for 5 years thought I could do it.
I love this story because it’s simple. It’s about people whose lives are stuck but maybe for one night it could be different.
Imagine I’m a member of the audience. Why should I watch this film?
If you like to feel connected to the quieter things in life – like if the biggest risk you could take in life is share a drink with a stranger – then you’ll like this film.
How do personal and universal themes work in your film?
One theme in the film is loneliness. Personally I think we are all lonely. This film is an extreme version but hopefully it resonates on a universal level.
How have the script and film evolved over the course of their development?
Massively. This is my debut film and I learnt extensively how important it is to illustrate the story. The road with constant traffic became a character also in the film not foreseen in the script.
What type of feedback have you received so far?
People cheer at times. But mostly wanting to view more. They all talk about the road and how much you feel the environment the characters exist in. And how beautiful the film looks.
Has the feedback surprised or challenged your point of view?
Yes and No. It’s always a challenge but people’s responses are what I look forward to and often help me shape the stories more so.
What are you looking to achieve by having your film more visible on www.wearemovingstories.com?
Audience. I would love an audience for this film and the people involved in making it.
Who do you need to come on board (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists) to amplify this film’s message?
I want this film to get into festivals and I would love this film to be viewed by top festival directors.
If anyone liked the film and wanted to promote it – that would be amazing!
What type of impact and/or reception would you like this film to have?
I’d love the film community to think this film showcased some of the best upcoming talent in Writing/Directing, Cinemaphotography, Original Music Composition, Performance, etc.
Any appreciation now would only help us to have the courage to make more pictures and capitalise on its success.
What’s a key question that will help spark a debate or begin a conversation about this film?
Has your life ever felt like it was decided for you but sometimes one day can be different?
Would you like to add anything else?
Thank you for your interest.
What are the key creatives developing or working on now?
Writer/Director Lauren Porteous’ next short film is a psychological thriller titled Heart to Heart shooting later this year in the winter.
Cinematographer Jason Antoni Crane is currently shooting commercial campaigns.
Greg Smith (Actor) is also a Producer at Cool Story Bro Films.
Detour Picture House is currently collaborating with Q Theatre to promote their upcoming season online.
Interview: May 2017
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We Are Moving Stories embraces new voices in drama, documentary, animation, TV, web series and music video. If you have just made a film - we'd love to hear from you. Or if you know a filmmaker - can you recommend us? More info: Carmela
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MOTEL
One can’t move, the other can’t stop.
Length: 15 min
Director: Lauren Porteous
Producer: Lauren Porteous
Writer: Lauren Porteous
About the writer, director and producer:
Lauren decided to make her first short film MOTEL last year. She followed this with two more short films in competitions and won Best Female Director in 48 Hour Film Festival NZ 2016.
Key cast: Sheena Irving, Greg Smith
Looking for (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists): Film Festival Directors
Social media handles:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lauren.m.porteous
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurenmporteous/?hl=en
Where can I see it in the next month?
No release is scheduled yet. Hoping to premiere at a festival.