An idealistic art teacher befriends a troubled teenage boy in her class, but when she is accused of an instance of inappropriate behavior, it becomes unclear who the actual victim really is.

Interview with Writer/Producer/Creator Teria Birlon

Congratulations! Why did you make your film?

Thank you! I created Birlon Films in 2015 because of a desire I have to do Film and T.V. work that’s exploratory, edgy and most of all, multi-dimensional. INSTANCE is the first production under Birlon Films. It’s also the first script I wrote back in 2008. I was taking screenwriting courses, soaking in every screenwriting book I could get my hands on and writing everyday with a lot of coffee as my screenwriting partner lol! I decided to make the film in 2016 because I wanted to take “ACTION” in my own career, stretch myself creatively and generate my own opportunities.

Imagine I’m a member of the audience. Why should I watch this film?

I love to watch Film and T.V. that takes me on a journey and absolutely makes me forget everything while I’m watching. We actually had an audience member at our last festival (Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival) tell us that she “Got lost watching the film and she was…just…. right in there with us on that journey” So, if you are a viewer that loves to take a voyage, INSTANCE is a film you should definitely see….and, expect the unexpected.

How do personal and universal themes work in your film?

The overall theme of the film is TRUTH. No matter what situations may arise in life, no matter what happens to you, no one can take that away from you.

How have the script and film evolved over the course of their development?

Wow! Lol! The script changed many times when I was writing it, from a different title, to different endings. I explored a lot of different options and took feedback when we went into pre-production from the other creatives involved in the film. So it evolved quite a bit. Ultimately, I ended up with an amazing script that I’m very proud of.

What type of feedback have you received so far?

INSTANCE has definitely started a conversation which is what my goal was as a filmmaker. I wanted the film to stir up feelings in people and it’s done just that. We have received great feedback. There have also been controversial, in depth talk-back sessions with our audiences. It’s been really amazing to see how excited, involved and passionate the audience members have been about the film.

Has the feedback surprised or challenged your point of view?

The feedback has not surprised me. I knew going in that this film would be controversial. Without giving away to much, I’ve received challenging questions on WHY certain things happened and WHY some of the characters made specific decisions…. My answer ultimately goes back to the main goal of Birlon Films, which is to create three dimensional characters. Characters that are flawed but perfect within their imperfections. Perfection on screen….as in life….to me, is kind of…. well, boring lol!

What are you looking to achieve by having your film more visible on www.wearemovingstories.com?

We feel so honored to have been chosen to be a part of We Are Moving Stories! I would love for more people to see this Award Winning Film, find out more info about Birlon Films and donate to our upcoming projects.

Who do you need to come on board (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists) to amplify this film’s message?

Getting the film more visibility is the goal! I am looking for distributors for the film, continued opportunities on the film festival circuit as well as funding for a possible feature version of the film.

What type of impact and/or reception would you like this film to have?

I would like the film to spark conversation and debate about teacher and student relationships within the African-American community as well as in the academic community as a whole.

What’s a key question that will help spark a debate or begin a conversation about this film?

I think a KEY question about the film is “How far is too far?” pertaining to student teacher relationships.

Would you like to add anything else?

As an African-American female filmmaker, I am dedicated to creating work that shows all people of color as they truly are…. multi-dimensional, multi-faceted and complex individuals.

What other projects are the key creatives developing or working on now?

Teria Birlon is currently in pre-production for a feature film under Birlon Films, which will be the second project for the film company.

Nick Casucci is in post-production for a short film called Grey Streets

Tekquiree Chanel is currently working on a podcast about healing which will launch during Breast Cancer Awareness month (October 2017).

Interview: September 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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INSTANCE

An idealistic art teacher befriends a troubled teenage boy in her class, but when she is accused of an instance of inappropriate behavior, it becomes unclear who the actual victim really is.

Length: 29 min 58 sec

Creator: Teria Birlon

Director: Nick Casucci

Producer: Teria Birlon

Writer: Teria Birlon

Co-Producer: Tekquiree Chanel