Asra
A religious and traditionalist man, defeated by an incurable degenerative disease, decides to end with his own suffering. He entrusts his son Omar, with whom he has a difficult relationship, with the task of finding someone to end his pain.
Interview with Writer/Director/Producer/Actor/Editor Caio Cortonesi
Congratulations! Why did you make your film?
It was made partly inspired by a magazine article, and partly by not being able to shoot a feature film I was working on. Out of frustration for not securing funds, I brought together some of the feature's cast and crew to shoot a short instead, exploring the backstory of one of the feature's characters.
Imagine I’m a member of the audience. Why should I watch this film?
This is a story I felt really had to be told. It touches upon many thorny subjects, so if you're not afraid of challenging issues it can be an engrossing experience. At least I hope so.
How do personal and universal themes work in your film?
I think that cinema, as with all great art, is largely about bridging the universal and the personal. Telling a story that took place in another place and time, while making it feel immediate and personal. Despite wrangling so many heavy themes, Asra is also a profoundly intimate film. I believe many viewers feel that way.
How have the script and film evolved over the course of their development?
The script came to life very quickly because my mind was already populated by the "world" of the feature. It was a very quick and fun experience.
What type of feedback have you received so far?
Incredibly positive, even from unexpected sources.
Has the feedback surprised or challenged your point of view?
Yes, by how positive it was. The film touches upon many aspects that some groups may find offensive - namely religious groups and certain parts of the political spectrum. But some of the most heart-warming responses I've got, came from very religious countries, from people who struggle with the themes of the film, or who disagree with my point of view. It's the power of art, I guess.
What are you looking to achieve by having your film more visible on www.wearemovingstories.com?
Carmela contacted me after featuring an old film of mine years ago, it's good to be back. I expect nothing other than the pleasure of sharing my work with people interested in engaging with it.
Who do you need to come on board (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists) to amplify this film’s message?
Just anyone interested in spending a few minutes watching a lovingly made film. It is out there, ready to be seen. If you like it, pass it on.
What type of impact and/or reception would you like this film to have?
I can say I'm very thankful for the impact it already had. I had no expectations of winning major awards, getting tons of work out of it or anything like that. The greatest reward is seeing someone connect to it in a beautiful way.
What’s a key question that will help spark a debate or begin a conversation about this film?
The are so many. I hope that upon watching you'll be full of questions, and will be eager to share them with me.
What other projects are the key creatives developing or working on now?
Currently, other than publishing my first English novel, I have a small stack of stage plays and feature scripts waiting to come to life. I'll be busy probably for the rest of my life.
Interview: March 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
Asra
A religious and traditionalist man, defeated by an incurable degenerative disease, decides to end with his own suffering. He entrusts his son Omar, with whom he has a difficult relationship, with the task of finding someone to end his pain.
Length: 15:40
Director: Caio Cortonesi
Producer: Caio Cortonesi and Raphael Cardoso
Writer: Caio Cortonesi
About the writer, director and producer:
CAIO CORTONESI is a UK-based Brazilian film director, author, and composer. He first became known as a prominent music producer, working with dozens of rock acts from all over the planet. In parallel to his music career, he worked for several years as an editor, colourist, and CGI artist until he began directing in 2009. Since then he directed, photographed, produced and edited countless music videos, as well as several short films in two languages.
Key cast: Humberto Pedrancini (Ayman), Débora Aquino (The Doctor), Caio Cortonesi (Omar), Juliana Drummond (Thaís), Pietro Barbosa (Young Omar)
Facebook: Procyon Films
Twitter: @caiocortonesi
Instagram: @caiocortonesi
Hashtags used: #euthanasia #religion #transgender
Website: www.procyonfilms.com
Other: IMDb