Two former best friends reunite in a changed world, finally confronting the demons that ripped them apart.

Interview with Writer/Producer/Actor Sal Neslusan

Congratulations! Why did you make your film?

Thanks! The director, Chelsea Gonzalez, and I have been friends since our freshman year at Syracuse University, and we've wanted to make a film together for a long time. We knew filming a short during the pandemic would provide challenges, so in the interest of everyone's safety, we wanted to create a story that would take place mostly outside.

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

We hope you'll be intrigued by a look into a complicated relationship, and chilled to the bone by where that relationship goes.

How do personal and universal themes work in your film?

One of the things that inspired our film was the devastating statistic that during the 2020 lockdown, domestic violence cases rose by about 1/3 worldwide. We wanted to explore the horrors of quarantining with an abuser, as well as the complicated position that leaves friends who know the truth.

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

One thing we always looked for was grey areas. How can we make these people more complicated? How can we obfuscate right and wrong?

What type of feedback have you received so far?

Our favorite feedback is hearing the audience scream!

Has the feedback surprised or challenged your point of view?

Absolutely. Because of its themes, we've always expected the film to resonate with women. But, we've been pleasantly surprised to find it hits home for men, too. Especially fathers.

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

Buyers and distributors.

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

We hope to inspire some introspection but also keep the audience having fun with a few scares.

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

What would you do to keep your loved ones safe?

Interview: July 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

Make The Call

Two former best friends reunite in a changed world, finally confronting the demons that ripped them apart.

Length: 15:00

Director: Chelsea Gonzalez

Producer: Amanda Markowitz

Writer: Sal Neslusan

About the writer, director and producer:

CHELSEA GONZALEZ strives to tell stories that explore the darkest parts of ourselves and our society while still cultivating light, laughter, and suspense. She was named ‘Most Powerful Voice’ by Blackbird Film Festival for her first short film, Susanne and The Man and last year won Best Pilot at Dances with Films for her series, Legit Married. She is currently one of 8 fellows chosen for the inaugural Blumhouse and K Period Media screenwriting fellowship, formally supported by Sundance.

SAL NESLUSAN is a writer and actress originally from Webster, Massachusetts with a passion for stories about unique relationships. Most recently, her modern adaptation of Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility won the Austin Film Festival Best Comedy Screenplay award.

AMANDA MARKOWITZ is an award-winning producer committed to bringing important and unique stories to life. A Los Angeles native, Amanda graduated from USC’s Marshall School of Business and is the owner of Three Tales Productions. She is a proud member of the Producers Guild of America and has multiple projects in development and production.

Key cast: Camille Chen (Annie), Sal Neslusan (Caro), Hazel Aubrey (Kaia), Gunnar Anderson (Bryan)

Looking for: journalists, distributors, buyers

Other: IMDb

Where can I watch it next and in the coming month?

Dances With Films/TLC Chinese Theatre - June 28, 2023 5PM
Etheria Film Festival/ Screenland Armour Theater Kansas City Missouri - July 1, 2023