While Mortals Sleep
When a cold case novelist's career implodes, she seeks refuge in her friend's remote vacation home. Upon arrival, she encounters a strange couple who claim to be the caretakers. As tensions build, a dark secret begins to emerge.
Interview with Writer/Director Alex Fofonoff
Congratulations! Why did you make your film?
I made this film because I've been slowly falling in love with horror over the past decade, but had yet to make something that really leaned hard into the genre.
Imagine I’m a member of the audience. Why should I watch this film?
Watching Atmospheric Horror is such a special cinematic experience. The uncomfortable but engrossing feeling of watching something unknown and eerie circle a character is so much fun, and it allows the viewer to really lose themself into the movie.
How do personal and universal themes work in your film?
I wanted to explore themes of accountability and action, and people can twist reality in order for the means to justify the end. Personally, I always love stories that explore family or community, and all the different shapes and sizes it can take.
How have the script and film evolved over the course of their development?
It's changed so many times through rewrites as I tried to ignore the urge to write a bigger story. I had to commit to this truly being a short film, and it was good practice to have to check myself and show restraint.
What type of feedback have you received so far?
The reception so far has been great! People really respond to the dread-filled tone of the film, and the baby puppet (we call him Baby Gary) really surprises people! And they can't get enough of him!
Has the feedback surprised or challenged your point of view?
It's always funny to read reviews of something you've made where it feels like the person just didn't understand where you were coming from or the point you were trying to make. But it's also good because it can allow you to question yourself in a healthy. Did what I was trying to do really work? Where did I fall short? How can I improve on creating the narrative experience I want to convey?
What are you looking to achieve by having your film more visible on www.wearemovingstories.com?
I'm just so thankful for the opportunity to tell more people about this movie and get out the names of everyone that worked so hard on it.
Who do you need to come on board (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists) to amplify this film’s message?
I am currently working on finding financing for the feature version while trying to make sure the short has as strong a festival run as possible. So anyone interested in helping bring the feature to life or any other festival directors that would like to program this beautiful wacky weird short, don't hesitate to contact me!
What type of impact and/or reception would you like this film to have?
I hope to help continue and build on this arthouse horror renaissance we're experiencing. Filmmakers like Jordan Peele, Ari Aster and Julia Ducournau, we're seeing a growing desire for movies like this, that rely on atmosphere and character to create a feeling of terror.
What’s a key question that will help spark a debate or begin a conversation about this film?
What is the cost of avoiding accountability and embracing an echo chamber?
Is the cost reality itself?
Would you like to add anything else?
I just want to say again that so many talented and amazing people were a part of this movie's success. And I am so thankful to all of them. Collaboration and teamwork always make a movie better. As a filmmaker, never be afraid to say, "I don't know. What do you think?"
What other projects are the key creatives developing or working on now?
Like I said, I am working on getting the feature film on its legs. I also have another short film in the works I hope to have ready for the 2023 festival season!
Interview: May 2022
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
While Mortals Sleep
Length:
14:10
Director
ALEX FOFONOFF is a L.A.-based filmmaker who’s always been captivated by the feeling of dread. Despite the risk of nightmares, as a kid he’d watch monster movies late into the night. His voice in filmmaking, inspired by the New Hollywood movement, subverts genres and twists reality.
Producer
MATTHEW JAMES REILLY Yearning to see more unique visions come to life in filmmaking, Matthew James Reilly founded his production company Video Horse Films, after his debut film, Abigail, premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. With an eye and a passion for blending hyperrealistic filmmaking with surreal undertones, he aims to surround himself with innovative creators and artists who inspire him.
Key cast:
Carie Kawa, Will Brill, Grace Morrison, Ron Binion
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/la_foaf/
Hashtags used:
#whilemortalssleep
More info:
Screens:
Atlanta Film Festival