Frameline 42 - Morning After
After a long time abroad, a young man returns home and reunites with friends. A sensual game amongst them forces him to confront deep conflicts within himself that lead to a powerful awakening.
Interview with Director/Producer Patricia Chica
Watch Morning After here:
Congratulations! Why did you make your film?
I wanted to speak about human connection, energy and sexual enlightenment from a fresh perspective other than the LGBTQ or heterosexual’s points of view. I wanted to make a film about desire and arousal that would go beyond the conventional physical realm... a deeper and perhaps more spiritual approach to sexuality, self-expression and self-acceptance.
I strongly believe that human connection can not only be defined by physical attraction, but also by the emotional, intellectual and spiritual experience that connects us with other human beings. My purpose as a storyteller and my mission statement as a filmmaker is based on "Energy". Queer Energy, specifically, for this story.
We tend to believe that things that we can not name or define do not exist. Until recent years, there were no words or acknowledgment for sexual fluidity so people thought that the way they were (fluid, that is) could not be part of the rainbow of the sexual spectrum. There is a little shade of color for everyone in that rainbow. It is okay to not to identify with any of the preconceived sexual labels.
Some people are happy living in heterosexual relationships all their lives. However, on a deeper level of intellect and spirituality, they consider themselves Queer, not because they define themselves as such or because they are questioning themselves, but because the conventional labels simply do not define who they truly are.
Imagine I’m a member of the audience. Why should I watch this film?
Morning After is intended to leave you feeling expanded. If you want to be entertained, to recognize your true self and feel good after the credits roll, you should definitely watch this film!
How do personal and universal themes work in your film?
As human beings, we are all looking for connection, self-acceptance and self-expression. This film allows that. Also, whether you believe the lead character is straight or gay in the beginning of the film, it doesn't matter. Both options work. The movie was designed to be fluid, so that every audience member could see a reflection of themselves in the character. It works for everyone and every time!
How have the script and film evolved over the course of their development?
I use a method involving Energy in my creative process, especially when I direct actors, production design and cinematography. However, it is only during the editing phase of the film that I realized that this method could only be expanded to the next level during post-production. I can say that this method transcends the screen. The film has 7 main beats and I used the 7 energies, vibrations and colors of the Chakra system to tell this story and elevate it to the highest level. Even the score by Vivien Villani and the musical choices reflected this method!
What type of feedback have you received so far?
So far, the film has been presented at over 60 festivals and screenings worldwide. The ones I have attended in person were very insightful. I've seen people teary at the end. Young crowds wait for me to come out of the theater to give me a hug because they were so moved that someone made a film that speaks to them, about them and their sexual identity. It is very rewarding as a filmmaker to be able to tell stories that touch people's hearts.
Has the feedback surprised or challenged your point of view?
The process of making the film definitely helped me shape and sharpen my thinking about sexual identity and to express another side of the LGBTQ+ experience.
What are you looking to achieve by having your film more visible on www.wearemovingstories.com?
I love www.wearemovingstories.com and I'm very honored to be showcased on this site that supports great independent filmmakers! Thank you so much Carmela for your great platform!
Who do you need to come on board (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists) to amplify this film’s message?
I'm looking for financiers to join forces with me for finishing funds on my feature MONTREAL GIRLS! It is my best project in career. A prestige production to say the least!
What type of impact and/or reception would you like this film to have?
I want this film to open the dialogue about sexual identity and make people feel good about who they truly are.
What’s a key question that will help spark a debate or begin a conversation about this film?
What is Queer Energy? What is sexual fluidity?
Would you like to add anything else?
I am very active on social media. I invite everyone to join me on my social networks to continue the conversation, make new connections and friendships!
What other projects are the key creatives developing or working on now?
"Montreal Girls", my next film, is a coming-of-age drama. It will be huge and better than "Morning After". I am looking for a dream team to collaborate with. My kind of collaborators are powerful go-getters, progressive thinkers, outside of the box visionaries and innovators. If you are one of them, please contact me! We should talk!
Interview: June 2018
We Are Moving Stories embraces new voices in drama, documentary, animation, TV, web series, music video, women's films, LGBTQIA+, POC, First Nations, scifi, supernatural, horror, world cinema. 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
Morning After
After a long time abroad, a young man returns home and reunites with friends. A sensual game amongst them forces him to confront deep conflicts within himself that lead to a powerful awakening.
Length: 14:59 minutes
Director: Patricia Chica
Producer: Patricia Chica
Byron A. Martin
Key cast: Thomas Vallières (Michael), Kristian Hodko (Edward), Zoé de Grand Maison (Teegan), Joey Scarpellino (Alex) and Jordana Lajoie (Dana).
Looking for: producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MorningAfterMovie
Twitter: @PatriciaChica AND @ByronAMartin
Instagram: @Chicatronica
Other: www.PatriciaChica.com
Funders: PRIM Centre, Marc Carle, Flirt Films, Greatness Within, Labology LLC, The Two Gay Geeks, FFAD, Byron A. Martin Productions, Indiegogo Donors
Made in association with: Byron A. Martin Productions and so many generous donors
Where can I watch it next and in the coming month? There will be an online release soon! Stay tuned!