Do Sperm Get Killed by Coffee?
A parasite called "rumour" enters the mind of a man-eating breakfast. The world he sees changes in a way that is both ridiculous and terrifying.
Interview with Writer/Director/Animator Mojiao Zhou
Congratulations! Why did you make your film?
The theme of this project is misinformation and rumours. In the context of the Covid pandemic, a large number of rumours have been created, and they are all widely circulated. Some of them are harmless or even ridiculous, while others are so serious that they can lead to death or injury. But all in all, rumours, big or small, are affecting people's lives. So I decided to create a story about rumours. I wanted to use black humour to tell an educational story that was not necessarily dogmatic, but something that people could spontaneously reflect on and be wary of after watching.
Imagine I’m a member of the audience. Why should I watch this film?
It is a satirical tale of curiosity, herd mentality and imagination. To believe or not to believe? Spend just two minutes and you can get your own thoughts.
How do personal and universal themes work in your film?
This theme is based on what I have experienced myself, but also what everyone is experiencing. Everyone has times when they are confused by the "scientific research proves ......" on their phone, and the main character of the film could be me or anyone.
How have the script and film evolved over the course of their development?
The script was smoothly written and most of the plot elements in it were inspired by conversations my grandmother had with me (she was an old lady who was prone to believing internet rumours). I put more effort into the finale, trying to focus on the fact that rumours can't be prevented and are pervasive.
What type of feedback have you received so far?
Most people resonated with the story and some would be amused by some of the points. Some viewers will start to reflect on it after watching it, which makes me really happy.
Has the feedback surprised or challenged your point of view?
Some of the audience members gave me stories of ridiculous rumours they had believed after watching it, which I found very interesting and gained a lot of inspiration from.
What are you looking to achieve by having your film more visible on www.wearemovingstories.com?
I am very hopeful and happy that my film will be seen by more people.
I hope that this little animated short film will also be as widely circulated as the rumours themselves, making people stop and think seriously before they are ready to believe.
Who do you need to come on board (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists) to amplify this film’s message?
As a complete novice to the film world, I needed it all. I have produced the whole film independently and am proud of myself. This is just the beginning and I hope to be given the opportunity to continue creating more meaningful works of art.
What type of impact and/or reception would you like this film to have?
I hope the film will entertain audiences and be remembered. I would love to help people be more aware of rumours through my film.
What’s a key question that will help spark a debate or begin a conversation about this film?
When you see a piece of "news", do you check the authenticity of it before hitting "retweet"?
Would you like to add anything else?
Many thanks to my tutors for their valuable suggestions while I was making this film.
Interview: February 2023
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
Do Sperm Get Killed by Coffee?
A parasite called "rumour" enters the mind of a man-eating breakfast. The world he sees changes in a way that is both ridiculous and terrifying.
Length: 2:28
Director: Mojiao Zhou
Producer: Mojiao Zhou
Writer: Mojiao Zhou
About the writer, director and producer:
MOJIAO ZHOU is an award-winning freelance animator and illustrator. She was born in China and completed her MA in Illustration at the University of the Arts London. She is currently living in London with her two hamsters.
Looking for: film festival directors and producers
Instagram: @jooooy.z
Website: momojo-art.com
Where can I watch it next and in the coming month?
DC Independent Film Festival/ Washington, DC/ Mar 3-5