Filmmaker Statement

Completed over 7 months in 2023, "AWAKE" is my fourth personal short film. The story comes from a very relatable question "What is my purpose?" - and the existential themes begin to build from there. Set against an epic desert backdrop, our protagonist deals with queries of identity, routine, and consciousness as their purpose is ultimately revealed. The inward is manifested outward and all bodies are in alignment. Although the story was simple (yet cerebral), I wanted the execution to feel like a sweeping western epic with a touch of science fiction. Yeah sure - these are all attainable things for a personal short film haha. Once production began it took on its own driving force and was such a fun world to build. Using personal projects as a vehicle for artistic growth, I wanted "Awake" to fully stretch my abilities as a designer/animator. However, beyond fostering a technical skill set, I was really interested in how I could become a stronger Breakdown - https://vimeo.com/852230590