WILDsound: The Film Podcast

TEA TIME, 9min., USA Directed by B.T. Goldman A detective interrogates a strange elderly Englishman about a missing person in his neighborhood. https://www.instagram.com/cybereggproductions/ https://www.instagram.com/b.t.goldman/ Get to know the filmmaker: What motivated you to make this film? I hadn't directed a project of my own in over a year, and I was at a wrap party for a short film that I was an extra in (SPRINKLES, directed by the Andrew Korzenik, written by Riley Stockard, and produced by Sky Mattioli, all great talents). I tend to be off in my own world a bit at parties, and the image of a wild, tuxedo-laden man forcing tea on a guest at a table in an empty room came into my head. It was kind of out of nowhere, and seemed like a really simple, filmable idea for an unsettling story. It was an eerie, but also amusing to me since I grew up with an English father (who naturally was cast as the Englishman in this film). From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film? I initially had the idea around September 2023, we filmed in February 2024, and I had the final edit in December 2024, so it was a total of about 15 months from conception to completion. How would you describe your film in two words!? Uncomfortably funny. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film? It was probably the audio editing. It really felt like everything came together fairly easily, everyone who worked on the film is a close friend or relative. Eric Alcaraz, our incredible cinematographer, is well educated in audio engineering and really saved me with that when I was editing. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Watch the screenplay reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CyAJad2rPlg Based on Concepts from the novel Considering SomeplacElse By Barry B.L. Lindstrom Get to know the writer: What is your screenplay about? The Galactic Council has seen enough and has voted 8 to 1 to eliminate all humanoid Earthlings. Padrin, the lone dissenter, an expert extra-terrestrial world saver, must now save humanity using only the positive actions and interactions of individual humans as evidence. In this, the pilot episode, Padrin's android, Facto, unexpectedly connects with the plight of suddenly, violently, orphaned 18 year old Charlene and her 12 year old sister, Jennifer who, apparently, are being forced into a polygamist cult run by their only next of kin. Padrin, sensing that Facto's discovery is something far beyond coincidence contemplates invoking Galactic Assertion 5: There MUST be something that moves a system from its current state to one that is better for the planet and its population, in defiance of all probabilities, patterns and past behaviors. We Earthlings call it Fate, Destiny, Faith, Luck and Random Chance, but the rest of the galaxy calls it: NaturalAwe. What genres does your screenplay fall under? Consider, if you will, “the twilight zone” as genre. Half hour serialized Character driven episodes centered around the idea that: The Galactic Council has been monitoring the behavior of planet populations for eons.Whenever a planet's ecosystem is threatened or a planet's population threatens other planets, the council, after following due process can directly intervene without warning, Unless, of course, there is significant evidence of NaturalAwe. Why should this screenplay be made into a TV show? Sometimes it seems like things have never been worse, That we are incapable of fixing that which is broken, That those who blame everything on those not-like-us are in control, That the doom and gloom dystopian vision of our entertainment depicts our destiny. As one who was raised on lessons gathered from Good-triumphs-over-Evil 50s and 60s Broadcast Television, (Occasionally impacted by exemplary public education), built a highly successful Information Systems career based on Richard Feynman's “Perspective is worth 80 IQ points”, and has extensive experiential evidence that there is no such thing as coincidence, I feel we need to deliver SOMETHING that might just move us to ways that are better for the planet and its population, in defiance of all probabilities, patterns and past behaviors. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Watch the best of SHORT FILMS from around the world today. A library of over 500 award-winning films: www.wildsound.ca (Plus, watch a new and original festival every single day.) Submit your film or screenplay to the WILDsound Festival today: https://filmfreeway.com/WILDsoundFilmandWritingFestival What is a Red Herring in storytelling? A red herring is a device that is used to mislead or distract the viewer from the real answer or conclusion. Simply said - it's a false clue. And it takes people's attention away from the central point being considered......

Hammerstone Meets Woofstock, 20min., Canada Directed by Josh Holliday A film that straddles the line between narrative and documentary, landing squarely on comedy. Steve Hammerstone is a small town radio host and big time buffoon, who's sent to explore Woofstock: North America's largest festival for dogs. Get to know the filmmaker: What motivated you to make this film? My friend and Lisa and I had done these small town radio host characters “Steve and Tawny” on CBC radio and through podcast for many years. Just before the pandemic, we were judges for Woofstock, and had so much fun doing it. Afterwards I had great regret that we had no record of that live event, so I set my sights on the next Woofstock. Unfortunately, COVID-19 came along and threw a wrench in the plan until 2024. I had stayed in touch with one of the founders and organizers over the years, and as soon as I knew a new version was coming, I made sure I was a part of it. I've always loved buffoon comedy. After many years working in radio and audio, I finally got around to fulfilling my high school mantra: “I want to write, act and direct for television and film.” From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film? Well, outside of the ideation and desire to do this project, pre-pandemic, the time started ticking as soon as I knew there was going to be a new Woodstock event. So that was probably in February or March of 2024. That set a very specific deadline for the actual shoot day. Woofstock generally happens over 2 days of a weekend. The day I was selected to judge was the Sunday. After the shoot, I worked with an editor to chop it down to under 20. Once that was done did some titles, post audio, and some audio cleanup. Had a friends and family screening on August 28th, so about 7 months in total from pre-production to final cut. How would you describe your film in two words!? Buffoon comedy. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film? Ha! This is a tough one, there are a few. The old wig I'd been using for this character for years had gotten really unruly, so I ordered a new one from this company in BC and what they sent was nothing like what was pictured on their website. They did not answer any emails, or calls, and eventually I had to initiate a chargeback process with my credit card company. I had to make do with the old wig, and put a baseball hat on. I have really bad eyesight, and the glasses I'd used in the past for the character were a pair of my dad's from the 80s with no lenses. When I did the Woofstock years ago I remember spending most of the day in character in a literal blur. I hunted online for a pair of glasses that were similar that I could get real lenses put in. I did that – and because of my prescription it took awhile. Well, the joke was on me, because the optometrist screwed up, and the lenses were essentially reading glass lenses – super-blurry except reading. It also detracted from the character, because so much of comedy is in the eyes, and the lenses had a real distorting effect. It was too late to get them changed before the event. The new glasses also just didn't have the same look as my Dad's old pair. (I've since put real lenses in my Dad's vintage frames.)This was all before the shoot!Shoot day was a whole new challenge. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

sustain, 5min., Austria Directed by Peter Schakl sustAIn is the Idea to combine sustainibility and artificial intelligence. Openess is to show generally ideas of sustainibility. https://www.instagram.com/peter.shackl.horn www.instagram.com/clementineclmtn Get to know the filmmaker: What motivated you to make this film? First in 1994 I was awarded with this multifunctional furniture at a competition of 500 Architecture students named „Openess“ – called by the famous Architect and Designer Mark Mack from Los Angeles, USA!In 2024 I was awarded by the jury of the Vienna Design Week and the furniture was presented at the exhibition! There occured the idea to show the multifunctionality and the idea of „Openess“ also as open minded, cradle to cradle, upcycling, so sustainability in general… with a short movie! And then all together to show a senseful usage of AI! From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film? It took from the first Design in 1994, the exhibition at the VIENNA DESIGN WEEK in 2024 finally to the realized Short Film, the finished product, in 2025. How would you describe your film in two words!? Sustainability & AI What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film? There haven`t been any obstacles at all! What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video? Completely overwhelming and really touching! Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Immersed – A Cinematic Immersive Album by Justin Gray, 60min,. Canada Directed by Justin Gray, Michael Fisher Justin Gray's Immersed is a groundbreaking cinematic album that transforms how audiences experience music. Composed, recorded, and produced as an immersive audio experience, the album features 38 artists from Toronto and around the globe, placing listeners at the center of a three-dimensional global orchestra. https://www.instagram.com/justingraysound/ Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Watch the best scene reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QDHl6jdZ3M4 Blue (formerly Logan) is a gifted transgender surgical nurse whose life spirals after a violent romance exposes her truth. Surviving a suicide attempt, she's sent to an off-grid trauma retreat, where healing begins amid a web of broken souls, betrayal, and revelation. Returning home to confront family and memory, Logan reclaims his identity—detransitioning not in retreat, but in power. Blue Idaho is a raw, redemptive journey of self-forgiveness, queer identity, and the quiet strength it takes to choose yourself. What is your screenplay about? This screenplay is a bold, soul-stirring exploration of identity, redemption, and the courage to love one's true self. At its heart is Blue (also known as Logan) — a precise, compassionate, and quietly suffering OR nurse who identifies as a trans woman. Behind her composed exterior lies a turbulent past: a childhood marred by neglect, abuse, and rejection. She inflicts harm on herself not for attention, but as a tragic ritual — a conversation with the inner child who was never allowed to speak. Based on real memories, true events, and lived characters, this story is an emotional autopsy of shame, survival, and transformation. When Blue opens her heart to Connor, a young doctor who genuinely sees her, it shatters the rule she swore to live by: never mix vulnerability with proximity. When Connor uncovers her truth, the rejection that follows is brutal — familiar — and almost final. Blue's near-death suicide attempt leads her to an unconventional retreat, where healing unfolds in messy, unexpected ways. There, she finds not only herself, but also her voice — as Logan. This story is not about being trans. It's about being human in the aftermath of trauma. It's about reclaiming dignity when the world has tried to erase it. It's about survival — and the raw, beautiful work of learning to live again. What genres does your screenplay fall under? Drama and Coming-of-Age, with powerful psychological and emotional undercurrents that resonate universally. Why should this screenplay be made into a movie? Because it tells a story that has rarely — if ever — been told with such honesty, depth, and compassion. Blue/Logan is a protagonist we haven't seen before: a trans woman, a detransitioner, a medical caregiver, a wounded survivor, a human being whose experiences speak across lines of gender, politics, or identity. This is not a culture-war film. It's a human story, and that is its power. The screenplay holds a mirror up to all of us who have felt unworthy of love, who carry an injured inner child, who have learned to survive by shrinking. It dares to say: you are still here — and that matters. It is intimate yet universal, deeply personal yet painfully relatable. This is not just an LGBTQIA+ story. It's a redemptive character journey that speaks the emotional language of anyone who's felt voiceless, invisible, or broken — and longs to heal. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

A Princess's Plea, 8min., USA Directed by Brooke Thornton, Madison Hubler Princess Circe awaits in her tower when Vince Davenport, crown prince of a rich kingdom, comes to claim her as his wife. But with the beast left unslain and the princess left unimpressed, Vince's quest takes a dark and unexpected turn. https://www.instagram.com/aprincesssplea Get to know filmmaker Madison Hubler: What motivated you to make this film? I have always loved dragons since I was a little girl. That is what originally drew me to the realm of fantasy, and when I discovered Daenerys Targaryen from Game of Thrones, my world shifted. It was the equivalent of a comic book kid seeing his favorite superhero come to life on screen. I had an epiphany: That is the kind of character I want to play. Being a ‘dragon queen' became a self-proclaimed part of my identity, and it shifted the way I moved through the world. It gave me confidence and strength- to put myself out there and claim my place. I felt this creative fire inside me, pushing me to write a story that would bring that dream to life. When the idea came to flip a well-known trope on its head, nothing could stop me. All this to say, the story came from deep within my soul. I created it for myself, and everything that comes after is just the cherry on top to one of the best things I've done in my life. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film? The film took about one year to make. The writing and filming process went by pretty quickly. I had a very clear vision going in and knew exactly what story I wanted to tell. The bulk of the time was spent with the editor, watching over his shoulder, nit-picking each second, and then working up the courage to actually show it to people when it was finished. How would you describe your film in two words!? Fun and unexpected! Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundp

Watch the best scene reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GncsGI4_L3o Get to know the screenwriter: What is your screenplay about? Bitter is a belated coming of age story for anyone that feels like the paradigm of success has shifted. It takes the traditional geek vs bully high school sub-genre and basically turns it on its ass, focusing on WILLOW, a once-hopeful two-time valedictorian, slated for success. Now, 10 years later, she's a bitter waitress, struggling with resentment and unmet potential, all while PARKER, her high school bully, lives the good life as a prominent influencer. What genres does your screenplay fall under? Bitter is definitely a comedy. When developing this story, it felt necessary to look through a humorous lens. The plot tackles a lot of socially-relevant themes and issues we all deal with on a daily basis: comparison culture, scam-influencers, toxic personalities—things that can absolutely consume a person. So, I thought it was important to craft the story and its characters from a place of comedy. I wanted to avoid the perception of whining or lecturing, and write a story that has something to say, but also has audience wanting to listen because they're getting to laugh along the way. Why should this screenplay be made into a movie? Movies have changed drastically over the last decade—some changes good, some bad, but I think a gap has been created for some of the sillier, more light-hearted comedies that can still pack a punch—that have something to say, but do it in a way to invites, not divides. I think Bitter recaptures this approach, in line with early-2000's movies like Mean Girls, Bruce Almighty, Miss Congeniality. The themes are there. The lessons are there. But so is the fun. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundp

After being embedded with the U.S. military in Afghanistan, which ends in tragedy, a journalist heads to rural Maine to fully recover and finds herself on the frontlines of another battle, between a family of wolves and the ruthless land developer who wants them hunted down. After a comrade dies in a horrific incident on the frontlines in Afghanistan, a war correspondent, forced to take time off, travels to Maine, only to stumble upon a exotic-animal hunting resort that threatens the local wolf population. When two wolf pups come under her care, she risks everything to stop the corruption and return the wolves to their pack. Get to know the writer: What is your screenplay about? This script is about a war reporter experiences the death of a close friend, she thinks she never known a tougher battle until she inherits his dog and they witnesses the murder of a wolf, then a brutal land developer set his sights on them when she informs his his landbelongs to the Penobscot Tribe, now with the two wolf pups they've rescued as she wages the biggest battle of her life to save them and absolve herself of her friends death. What genres does your screenplay fall under? My screenplay is an action/ adventure/thriller with a kick-ass female lead. Why should this screenplay be made into a movie? This screenplay is about a woman stepping outside of herself to do something for the greater good in a world she knows nothing about. We have become so detached from nature and what the true meaning of what balance is and how important it is, I know this- you won't find any true meaning to life buried in your phone. This movie will remind everyone who sees it what it feels like to be connected to something bigger than yourlittle world when you experience nature through the eyes and hearts of animals. How would you describe this script in two words? Redemption. Love. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Watch the script reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z8dO89qOZRk An adventure seeking young girl comes of age, joins the Peace Corps, gets posted in the Congo and takes a wild ride through culture clashes and love affairs. Get to know the writer: What is your screenplay about? My screenplay is about an adventure seeking young woman who joins the Peace Corps to advance her career, gets posted in the Congo, and ends up falling in love with two fellow volunteers. What genres does your screenplay fall under? The genre is Romantic Drama. Why should this screenplay be made into a movie? This movie needs to be made because there has never been a Peace Corps movie made before, and the Congo is the 4th world that Americans need to see. How would you describe this script in two words? In two words: compelling and original. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundp

Watch the best scene reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XnOurfvF21E Sci-Fi/Political/Action – A popular President's re-election campaign is beset by a relentless, brutal Assassin with whom he shares a dark, shocking history. Get to know the writer: What is your screenplay about? The fundamental story of Justice and the Machine is about one of the most popular presidents in US History, William B. Justice, becoming the target of a brutal assassin during his run for re-election. Calling himself “the Machine”, the assassin unpredictably succeeds in killing the President's innermost cabinet. His loyal wife gets kidnapped by the Machine, and he soon reveals that he has a secret history with her husband that goes beyond anything she understood to be reality. Much to her disbelief, she comes to accept the truth that her husband, the President of the United States, is an alien from another planet with murderous intentions to conquer the planet. The Machine is, in fact, his sworn enemy, and whenever they meet, they are obligated to duel to the death. So, on its surface, there's a lot of fun action and sci-fi sort of genre bending elements, but at its core is a story of deception and betrayal and the discovery that completely changes one woman's world view. What genres does your screenplay fall under? I used to enjoy calling it: My Sci-Fi/Political/Action/Thriller – so, depending on which page you turn, it's one or more of those. Why should this screenplay be made into a movie? Are you freaking kidding me!? This is a franchise starter baby, come on! I've got the sequel and a follow up if they wanna go for three – I know how to meet a deadline, let's write up that deal! How would you describe this script in two words? Crazy Politics Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Watch the best scene reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DLrcCUBi10A Facing death due to different illnesses, three patients find themselves playing a made up game called The Mortality Game to experience life one last time risking it all. www.instagram.com/thevelamonster Get to know the writer: What is your screenplay about? It's about 116 pages! Sorry, I just had to get one “Dad Joke” in, even though I'm NOT a Dad (that I know of). “The Mortality Game' is in essence a story of life as seen through the lens of impending death. It's about how we as humans face the “final act” of the stage play of our lives. In the case of my three headed lead: Schubert, Halada and Tugger face it in their own differing, yet quirky ways. Ultimately deciding to take a final road trip across the country while playing a game where they do dangerous things to challenge and defy death, since they have nothing to lose. What genres does your screenplay fall under? Character Driven Dramedy for the most part, as it has elements of Comedy and Drama, with a bit of Coming of Age mixed in for good measure. Why should this screenplay be made into a movie? Because the characters are as diverse in age and attitude as they are strong in development and memorability. Because the story, about how we face death is an important one to tell, since that is a situation that none of us can avoid. Because it explores letting go as well as fighting back, finding the joy in the dreaded, and allowing yourself to feel what you feel facing the end, whether it's understandable or not, expected or not, appropriate or not. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundp

The Abiding, 11min., USA Directed by Ally May A lonely woman reminieces about the three great loves of her life while she decides if trying again is a risk worth taking. https://writerdirectorallymay.com/ https://www.instagram.com/allymay/?hl=en Get to know the filmmaker: 1. What motivated you to make this film? Honestly, my motivation was/is to take every opportunity to develop as a director. I was at a festival, I had a room, a crew and actors, so I put it together really fast and shot it. 2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film? I wrote the script several years ago and had it sitting in my computer. Then I got the bright idea to shoot in about a month before we did. So, realistically, about a month. 3. How would you describe your film in two words!? Intimate, mature. 4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film? The biggest obstacle was blocking the scenes. We did not have access to the hotel room until the day we shot, so had no time to plan out blocking. 5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video? The first woman was very sterile, it seemed like she hadn't watched it and was just reading text. The other two that gave feedback seemed very genuine and thoughtful. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundp

Watch best scene reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1057hMo7JU Get to know the writer: What is your screenplay about? High Ground is a dramatic, near-future story set in climate-ravaged Miami. Gloria Tejeda, a brilliant, physically disabled architect, becomes an unexpected hero. As rising seas and political polarization threaten lives and values, her fight against societal judgment, and radical extremists transforms her from a misunderstood figure into a national symbol of strength, vulnerability, and moral courage. What genres does your screenplay fall under? Drama, with elements of Science Fiction, Social Commentary, and Thriller. It delves into abstruse disability issues and touches on Romance and Political Satire. Why should this screenplay be made into a movie? High Ground is a blend of personal and planetary crisis, addressing timely issues of climate change, misinformation, overcoming disabilities, and extremism. Gloria is emotionally insecure and physically limited, yet her internal and external challenges bring out inner strength. Her journey is inspiring, cinematic, and relevant. The story delivers suspense, emotional weight, visual spectacle, and a message of hope in a divided world. It is a story that needs to be told. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundp

Bill W Conscious Contact, 58min, USA Directed by Kevin Hanlon Conscious Contact explores the personal spiritual quest of Bill W and his thirst for transcendence. www.instagram.com/billwconsciouscontent http://www.billwconsciouscontact.com/ Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Dancing With Waves, 29min., USA Directed by Emmitt Thrower Tammi Judge, the founder of a transformative dance program, leads young dancers on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, using the power of movement to heal, inspire, and change their lives forever. Watch Emmitt's other short film, DISABLED ARTIST SHOWCASE: https://www.wildsound.ca/videos/watch-disabled-artist-showcase https://www.instagram.com/truth_thrower Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Routine, 5min., Canada Directed by Abo Fall Meet Benedicte, a happy young woman living in a beautiful, heavenly garden where she doesn't have a single worry in the world. She loves to wander around, lay on the grass and simply live in the moment. What motivated you to make this film?   In an ironic way, I think I was trying to get out of a routine myself. It had been a minute since I made any short film or even attempted to finish old scripts. I started feeling trapped in the 9 to 5 life and saw that, unless I made the effort to pursue my passion despite the obvious obstacles, the current life I'm living would be it forever. It pushed me to get out of my comfort zone and make things happen. We filmed this short film with an iphone and a very restricted budget.   From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?   I'll say about 4 months. The main issue was that I work in Nunavik but wanted to shoot the short film in Montreal. So, there was a moment where I had everything ready from the script to finding the right team but had to wait for the occasion to fly back to Montreal and finally get to shooting. But once I was on site, things went fast. We shot the entire script in 3 weeks, mainly because we had to work around everyone's availability. And then I spent about 2 months with Vincent Loiselle-Latour, who worked on the sound engineering and Julien Ferland who worked on the score, to create an atmosphere for the film that we would all be satisfied with.   How would you describe your film in two words!?   ''Literally me''   What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?   Time! There was never enough time and, as I said, I work in Nunavik. I had to shoot everything before it was time for me to go back and I had exactly 3 weeks !   What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?   I was thrilled the entire time! I really loved one of the critic's comment, when he said the movie inspired him to want to go make movies himself, that's what's up ! That's what it's all about at the end of the day. Hopefully the story pushes more people to want to try something new and get out of their own ''Routine''!   Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

FIELD REPORT | FLACK FAMILY FARM, 15min., USA Directed by Travis Limoge Nestled in the hills of Enosburg Falls, Vermont Flack Family Farm has been contributing to the vibrance of their community through their symbiotic work in the soil for nearly a half a century. https://www.instagram.com/underblkflag/ https://www.wildsound.ca/videos/audience-feedback-field-report What motivated you to make this film? As a Chef I have spent the last decade of my career dedicated to researching and implementing community based solutions to the industrial food complex. I have made many impactful relationships with farmers who are working hard to revitalize their local food sheds and felt inspired to share their stories as the majority of the documentaries currently available on food and food production are either glossy or focused on a specific problem rather than demonstrating the collaboration between farmer, soil, and community, the struggles they face and the actions of resilience they take on a daily basis. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film? We had a good idea of the message we were trying to relay in the film and when we set out on the farm to shoot the story unfolded chronologically as we were working hand in hand from harvest to production of the fermented products, when we got to post it was quick work as we were smitten with the story we had captured, all told the whole film from start to finish took a month. How would you describe your film in two words!? Thought Provoking What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film? The organic nature of the production didn't really come with obstacles, just lessons, Flack Family Farm welcomed us in and took the reins, we just followed along. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video? It was wonderful to receive feedback from the audience, it was touching that they were able to really connect with the message and the feedback let us know that we had captured the story we were trying to tell. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Sweet Dreams, 34min., USA Directed by Gary Alvarez Set in the near future when most people can no longer dream, "Sweet Dreams" follows the story of Esperanza, a young woman who's excited to be a mom for the first time. Weeks before the baby is due, her partner Kiké goes missing. As she searches for him and her savings dwindle, she comes across an opportunity to make some quick money: surrogate dreaming, a new technological advancement which allows her to sell the dreams of her unborn child through a dreamcatcher clinic. After a trial run, Esperanza begins to suspect that the clinic is somehow connected to Kiké's disappearance. https://www.instagram.com/sweetdreams_film/ What motivated you to make this film? A conversation I had with my wife when she was about 6 months pregnant with our son, Sol. We discovered that he was dreaming in the womb and that idea blew my mind! I thought it would make a good story and I started writing the script later that night. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film? 3 years and 5 months. How would you describe your film in two words!? Must watch! What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film? Post-production: from false starts on VFX to losing an AE to scheduling sound design and raising funds to pay for all of it!  Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

THE MERMAID, 105min., USA Directed by Soudabeh Moradian A mysterious girl is saved from drowning by a fragmented family living in a desolate beach house. Her strange relationship with them becomes intimate and complex until everything reaches to a point of no return. https://www.instagram.com/themermaidmovie/ Get to know the filmmaker: What motivated you to make this film? The Mermaid was born out of a personal urgency to explore the psychological aftermath of trauma—particularly when it's silenced or dismissed. I wanted to create a space for a character who's constantly gaslit, both by her inner world and the people around her, and to blur the line between dream and reality. It's a reflection on emotional abuse, xenophobia, and isolation, wrapped in the aesthetics of psychological horror. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film? It took more than three years from the initial concept to the final cut. Development and writing were fairly quick, but production and especially post-production were long and complicated—partly due to budget constraints and doing so much of the work myself. How would you describe your film in two words!? Hauntingly intimate. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film? Financing and post-production. I wore multiple hats—writer, director, producer, editor —and managing everything independently while teaching full-time at Syracuse University was incredibly draining. There were moments I truly thought it wouldn't get finished. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video? It was surreal and deeply moving. Hearing people connect to the emotional undercurrents, even if they interpreted things differently, made me feel like the risks I took paid off. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Law's World: Lipstick Bandit, 13min., USA Directed by Law Artis “A sassy pansexual sex blogger prepares for a high-profile house tour, but his plans are derailed by his narcissistic bestie, determined to retrieve something she claims is irreplaceable.” http://lawartis.com/ https://instagram.com/laws_world Get to know the filmmaker: What motivated you to make this film? I grew up watching so many tv shows and as a performer I wanted to create something I've never seen. I wanted to mix my love of reality tv, web series, and film into my own version of a proof of concept film for my web film series I wrote. It;s time for a plus size, poc, to lead a comedy film series and why not me! From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film? This was a one year process. I am a graduate of School of Visual Arts as a Film Directing Grad Program. I wrote the script in the summer of 2024, and started preproduction winter of 2024, and was in post production by early spring 2025. How would you describe your film in two words!? Fabulously Iconic. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film? Biggest obstacle for any indie filmmaker/creative; where is the money coming from? Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

The Line We Crossed, 110min., USA Directed by Liz Smith A British story of dissent, drawn from the frontlines of climate resistance. Through the experiences of those who stood in defiance, it traces the quiet unraveling of our protest rights. The film challenges audiences to question what makes dissent effective and where the line of acceptability is. http://www.thelinewecrossed.com/ https://www.instagram.com/p75investigates/ Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

FLÜGGE, 25min., Germany Directed by Leopold Schraudolph, Dani Rose Cortés In an Austrian mountain village in 1914, the determined Amelie (20) must defy her father's wishes of running the family sewing business to pursue her own dreams of flight and seize her only chance at finding true freedom. Hannah Ehman chats with actress Elena Franke about her award-winning performance in the short film FLÜGGE. Elena Franke Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elena_frnke/ —— Follow Interviewer Hannah Ehman on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ehmanhannah/ Watch Hannah's commercial spots: https://www.ispot.tv/topic/actor-actress/bP8/hannah-ehman Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

KHENTOPIA, 72min., USA Directed by Job Michiel van Zuijlen Khentopia is a peaceful society on the planet Zeeray, where ethereal energy generated through chanting at Harmony Center is used to feed a protective shield that envelops the planet. All is well, until one June morning in 2502, the crew of raider ship Space Wolf is intent on breaking through the shield to carry out a pillage mission. They succeed in obliterating the ethereal power generation and so the protective shield. On top of that, a parallel universe emerges with an alternate Khentopia that is harsh and hostile. http://khentopia.com/ Get to know the filmmaker: What motivated you to make this film? The idea for Khentopia already existed for another story, but the inauguration of Trump 1 in 2017 made me think that we had entered a parallel world. I developed a new story with that in mind. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film? It took about seven years. To get the story itself right was a challenge. I knew the beginning and the end, but I struggled with the middle. How would you describe your film in two words!? Khentopia regained. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film? Because it took such a long time, the biggest challenge was to stay interested. It is also a lot of work, and some scenes are necessary but kind of tedious to do. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video? I was pleasantly surprised by the insightful comments, especially from the second woman. She was able to distill various elements that I had put into the story and expressed them clearly. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

STAYCATION, 93min,. USA Directed by Russell Emanuel How is the world affected by a catastrophic event? Everyday people live through a government mandated quarantine during a global pandemic while desperate scientists race to find a cure before it's too late. https://russem.com/ https://www.instagram.com/russem31/ Hannah Ehman chats with the lead actor of the award winning feature film STATCATION Tanya Hobson-Williams Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaybutta823/ —— Follow Interviewer Hannah Ehman on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ehmanhannah/ Watch Hannah's commercial spots: https://www.ispot.tv/topic/actor-actress/bP8/hannah-ehman Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Watch the best scene reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-QDNj491w8Q James Stuart Donovan Hastings, Earl of Billingswood, has had one headache after another. First his home is in disrepair, his nephew is too young for his own good, his best friend thinks he's gone round the bend and now someone just tried to kill him. If it wasn't for the angel with strawberry blonde hair and amethyst eyes, he might well be dead. Blasted horse, thinks he knows more than the master! What is your screenplay about? James Stuart Donovan Hastings, Earl of Billingswood, has a potentially deadly encounter on his way to Sandringham. He is rescued by a beautiful angel. His horse decides it is his right to make choices for the master. Can there be a happy ending? Why should this screenplay be made into a movie? With the success of other Historical Fiction/Romances such as Bridgerton allowing for viewers the chance to escape their day to day experiences, allowing them to immerse themselves in an era that has been romanticized. How would you describe this script in two words? Captivating drama What movie have you seen the most times in your life? Princess Bride How long have you been working on this screenplay? Couple of months How many stories have you written? Seven novellas Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Shame, 5min., USA Directed by Kelly Lynn Warren When a woman is sexually assaulted by a mutual friend the night before, her confrontation with her best friend leads to tragic consequences. https://www.instagram.com/shametheshortfilm/ Get to know actor/writer/produer Ashna Sharan: What motivated you to make this film? I was a peer counselor in college and know of people in my life who have been sexually assaulted. I wanted to raise awareness of the issue and show it from the perspective of two friends instead of focusing on the assailant. The ultimate goal of Shame was to take it to universities and spark dialogue among students. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film? 9 months How would you describe your film in two words!? must-see, impactful What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film? One of our actors had an emergency and had to back out of filming on Day 1, so I had to recast the same night because we were shooting the next day. Our actor, Sophia Cofino, stepped in and nailed the part. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

The Interrogation, 5min., USA Directed by Kyle Riggs, Dylan Lighthall A Russian mob interrogation goes awry when an over-eager enforcer tries to pitch in, but can't get his mind out of the gutter. www.instagram.com/riggseyyy www.instagram.com/dylanlighthall Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Watch the best scene reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJWMb6F1GVY What is your screenplay about? A dark comedy feature inspired by a true story and based on the book of the same name. After a man moves to a small town to care for his dying father, he embraces the community and his new life as a stepfather and husband, until he finds himself in the crosshairs of an unhinged townswoman who challenges him in a school board election and makes him look like the crazy one. What genres does your screenplay fall under? Thriller/Dark Comedy Why should this screenplay be made into a movie? The story is inspired by real life and will be relatable to the viewer. Everyone has a crazy aunt like the antagonist! Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Tendon, 13min,. USA Directed by Jannik Ehret Recovering addict Rene sees a creature poison the city's water supply and has to convince his skeptical sister and her no-nonsense boyfriend to stay away from the tap water. Get to know the filmmaker: What motivated you to make this film? I grew up in Germany from where Los Angeles always felt like a mythical place in another world. Through a street racing video game I was first introduced to the LA river; a concrete channel that splits Los Angeles in such a crude and inorganic way. At the time I thought it was an invention of the game designers. Why else would there be a perfect drag racing track going right through the city. Ten years later, when I first saw the LA river in person, I became enchanted by its otherworldly existence. My parents are spiritual teachers. Witnessing their clashes with “the regular world” has forced me to contemplate the role of “the real” in our emotional lives. To an extent, the “real” is irrelevant if its effect is tangible. The fear we feel from the monster under the bed is happening regardless of the presence of the monster. With that in mind, people should treat the fears of others, no matter how otherworldly, with empathy. Tendon is the merging of my love of sci-fi, the LA river, the homelessness epidemic and my take on the deep seeded fear of not being believed. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film? I played around with the script for about five years. Once I landed on something I liked it only took about a month to get the project to the editing stage. Sound designing and composing was tricky since the film lives between genres but after another 4 months the project was done. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

As Long As You Want, 22min., Canada Directed by Matt Santos For as Long as You Want is a tender, conversation-driven short film about two actors, Liz and Brad, running lines in a quiet basement one afternoon. What starts as a simple rehearsal slowly turns into something deeper as they begin to open up about their relationships, their dreams, and the things they're afraid to admit out loud. Liz is in a relationship that no longer feels right, with someone who doesn't really see her. Brad's charming, grounded, and unexpectedly honest. As they talk, laugh, and share food, the connection between them grows easy, real, and a little bit electric. With Liz's train out of the city approaching, she has to decide whether to go back to the life she's been trying to make work, or stay in this moment just a little longer. Quiet, raw, and full of heart, For as Long as You Want is about timing, chemistry, and the things we don't plan for. www.instagram.com/check_please_productions/ Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

She Loves Her John, 7min., USA Directed by Ivan Alejandro Rivero “She Loves Her John” is a story about redemption, the feelings that arise after betrayal, and the thoughts of moving forward. https://facebook.com/shelovesherjohn Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Triggered 2.0, 22min,. USA Directed by Mario Ricardo Rodriguez, Marcus Nel-Jamal Hamm A diabolical madman known as The Director 2.0, with a vendetta against Wolverine, plots a way to take his powers and use him as a distraction as he enacts his ultimate means of destroying all superpowered beings, by pitting him against his one ally, Blade, in a fight to the death. Lucas Bishop must find a way to break free of his control so he can save his friends and the rest of humanity. https://instagram.com/triggeredfanfilm Conversation with writer/co-director/actor Marcus Nel-Jamal Hamm. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Rock Island Prison 1864, 7min,. USA Directed by Joy Shannon Guarding Confederate POWS in a Civil War prison, a runaway slave now Union soldier, desperately fights for power, or faces returning to slavery. https://www.rockislandprison.com/ Hannah Ehman chats with the lead actor of the award winning short film ROCK ISLAND PRISON 1864) Danney Paul instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danneypaul/ —— Follow Interviewer Hannah Ehman on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ehmanhannah/ Watch Hannah's commercial spots: https://www.ispot.tv/topic/actor-actress/bP8/hannah-ehman Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Watch the best scene reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EPh-ZxTT4GE LOGLINE: In the 1940s, prisoners — including infamous mob boss Joe Blunda — were released to defend America from Nazi spy attacks. What happened to them remains a chilling mystery: none were ever seen alive again. Get to know the writer: What is your screenplay about? My screenplay tells a story that was circulating at the time — it captures society during the World War era and highlights an undeniable truth: Power is often manipulated by ruthless agendas. What genres does your screenplay fall under? The genre is historical thriller. How would you describe this script in two words? Dire Straits How long have you been working on this screenplay? So many, but especially Superman (1978). When I was a kid, I watched it over and over again. Same with the Lord of the Rings. I would go through phases where I'd obsessively rewatch certain films — the ones that gave me a sense of hope deep inside. How many stories have you written? I worked on this script casually in my spare time over the past three years. Yes — I believe a draft needs to sit and “mature” a bit before you lock in the final version. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Watch best scene reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8M-6es5qNVc Get to know the writer: What is your screenplay about? A former Army lawyer, Gemma Lightwater battles troubled family and calculating investors to reopen her Missouri Ozarks ranch that pairs broken veterans with broken horses GEMMA LIGHTWATER a mid-30s Army veteran struggles to reopen the Red Rock Ranch that serves female veterans wellness. That is until she receives a five million dollar offer from her former captain, ASTRID MITCHELL, but the money comes with a ticking clock and giving up decision-making control to her former JAG leader. As the new veteran arrivals, tensions run high as NORMA JONES, Gemma's right hand at the ranch tries to help Gemma and Astrid understand what a deal means for them. After a few rounds of will they or will won't they sign, Gemma and Astrid find common ground to finalize the deal. Then tragedy strikes leaving Gemma conflicted and suspicious at the exact time she is supposed to be opening a new chapter for the only real mission she has left, saving others to save herself. What genres does your screenplay fall under? Thriller, Drama, Suspense Why should this screenplay be made into a movie? As a female veteran, I look into the eyes of women in uniform and remind them that our service matters. They remind me to tell their stories. The doubts of if female veterans deserve a seat at the table of service will be removed. And in this show, we ARE the table. This pilot should do for women veterans what Orange is the New Black did for incarcerated women. And do for Missouri what Yellowstone did for Montana. What Band of Brothers did for male veterans. We have a long historic legacy that quickly being erased. Women have put their lives on the line since the beginning of time, when do we see them as the main characters. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Submit your film or screenplay to the WILDsound Festival today: https://filmfreeway.com/WILDsoundFilmandWritingFestival What is a Screwball Comedy? A comedy that is characterized by fast-paced, witty dialogue, farcical situations, and romantic storylines that often involve a battle of the sexes. They emerged in the 1930s and became popular in the 1940s. How is it different than a straight up romantic comedy? Screwball is a genre that focuses less the romantic courtship between two people, and more on the battle of the sexes. It always has a strong female protagonist, and usually a male protagonist trying to keep up with her. It puts the emphasis on the spoofing of love, rather than the "will they get together" plot. Where did the term "screwball" come from? It gets its name from the baseball pitch "the screwball". For those unfamiliar with baseball, it's a pitch a pitcher throws to a batter that moves in the opposite direction than a typical baseball pitch like a fastball, curveball, or slider. A screwball is an oddball pitch, like the female leads in the 1930s comedy films where they played the "opposite" of your typical female stereotype that were back in the day. Instead of wanting to find a husband, birth a few babies and be a homemaker - the female leads in the "screwball comedy" are strong, independent from men, and want to focus their life on their passions. They are attracted to men, but will only begin a courtship of any kind if it was on their terms - not the mans. Famous screwball comedy films? It Happened One Night (1934) Directed by Frank Capra. Starred Clark Gable & Claudette Colbert Bringing Up Baby (1938) Directed by Howard Hawks. Starred Katharine Hepburn & Cary Grant The Philadelphia Story (1940). Directed by George Cukor. Also Starred Katharine Hepburn, Cary Grant. With James Stewart added to the mix. The brand declined in popularity through the years, but it still shows up in its style. The Coen Brothers have made a few with "Intolerable Cruelty", "The Hudsucker Proxy", and "Hail Caeser" Bridesmaids (2011), written and starring Kristen Wiig is considered a screwball comedy. Is any one a fan of Amy Sherman-Palladino TV shows?: Gilmore Girls. The Marvelous Mr. Maisel. Étoile. Those television shows are more definitely classic Screwball Comedies. From the characters. plot points. fast paced dialogue. Even the way the shows are directed - are classic screwball! Enjoy the past, present, and future of the Screwball Comedy!

Watch the best scene script reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LtieadtYQNM Summary: Researching transfusion therapy on different blood groups, something goes completely wrong when the test subjects start mutating and transforming into Zombie like creatures. Get to know the writer: What is your screenplay about? A day in the life of a biotech firm takes center stage in Blood Red as we travel from floor to floor, department to department, meeting the teams that comprise Edgewater Laboratories and their sometimes adversarial motivations. Edgewater's Chief Science Officer, Dr. Ruby Beck, is the inventor of a synthetic blood she's named Ichor for the mythical golden fluid that ran in the veins of the gods. Ruby explains to an audience of investors gathered at the company's headquarters that every two seconds, someone needs blood due to injury or disease. Imagine a limitless supply of healthy blood in every hospital, school, military unit, and remote location. No more relying on donations. No more chance of contamination. No more delays in supply or delivery. Three floors below, eight patients are halfway through the final trials of Ichor in the aftermath of a violent protest against the ethics of artificial blood that has put the entire company on edge. But today, something is different. Sabotage of the Ichor infusion is affecting each patient differently with horrifying results. The day begins with routine patient observation and nerves around hosting the company's first investor conference before spiraling out of control as we root for Ruby, fighting for her life from floor to floor while trying to unwind the conspiracy threatening her creation. Ruby must reconcile if her creation is the pinnacle of healthcare or a threat to humanity. What genres does your screenplay fall under? Horror / Thriller Why should this screenplay be made into a movie? Horror remains one of the few genres that's arguably still best experienced in the theater with a crowd to share in the frights, jump scares, and wild reactions to what's on the screen. Safety in numbers! Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

New York Times Co. v Sullivan, 10min,. Canada Directed by Yanjia Yang In the heat of the Civil Rights Movement, a full-page ad in The New York Times sparked a legal battle that would redefine freedom of the press in America. Through archival footage, this short film explores how the case reinforced First Amendment protections and shaped journalism as we know it today. A must-watch for anyone interested in media, law, and the enduring power of free speech. Get to know the filmmaker: What motivated you to make this film? I was driven by a desire to revisit the New York Times Co. v. Sullivan case not just as a historical legal milestone, but as a powerful reminder of how fragile our freedoms truly are. In an era where misinformation, polarization, and censorship continue to challenge democratic ideals, I felt a strong responsibility to explore the balance between rights and responsibilities. I wanted my generation to understand that free speech is not abstract; it is something we must actively reflect upon. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film? This was my very first documentary, and as an 11th-grade student, it was a steep learning curve. From research to editing, the process took about three months. There were moments of doubt, technical setbacks, and challenges in simplifying complex legal ideas. Though it required a lot of effort and time commitment, I pushed through and was able to find the true meaning of creating this film. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Watch the best scene reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Di-SUrGZcgI https://www.instagram.com/joaomacongo_/ https://www.joaomacongo.com/about Get to know the writer: What is your novel about? The Origin of Humanity: A Real Dream is a deeply spiritual and philosophical novel inspired by a vivid dream I had. It explores the mysterious beginnings of humanity through a cosmic journey of creation, identity, mortality, and divine purpose. The story is both mystical and grounded, merging poetic storytelling with existential questions that challenge the reader to reflect on the meaning of life and the courage to awaken. What genres would you say this story is in? Spiritual Fiction, Metaphysical Fantasy, Philosophical Sci-Fi, Visionary Fiction. How would you describe this story in two words? Divine Awakening What movie have you seen the most in your life? The Matrix — for its blend of philosophy, reality-bending concepts, and spiritual undertones. What is your favorite song? (Or, what song have you listened to the most times in your life?) “Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac — it's timeless, haunting, and resonates with the journey of vision and destiny. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Watch the best scene reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b0mBY_JoZVo When a young, broke librarian buys an abandoned house on the outskirts of a British Columbian town, he starts to uncover the house's secrets as unexplained incidents occur. Get to know the writer: What is your screenplay about? The script follows a young programmer who moves into a haunted house in the Interior of British Columbia due to (widespread) financial difficulties. What genres does your screenplay fall under? It is a horror picture. Why should this screenplay be made into a movie? The story derives it's chills n' thrills from mood more so than sudden frights, which an audience will resonate with. The origin of the evil spectre which haunts the house and surrounding area is also relevant to issues of concern today. How would you describe this script in two words? ‘Definite Appeal'. What movie have you seen the most times in your life? By my recollection, either ‘Jaws' or ‘The Maltese Falcon'. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Watch the best scene reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YuCjP6YZsKU A writer tasked with writing a true event is taken by the CIA to cover their tracks. However, his smart mind out smarts them when his characters learn their role in his book and save him Get to know the writer: What is your screenplay about? “John Burgess is all about writing for the high technology industry, until his life takes an interesting turn. He wakes early one morning with a new story in his head that he just has to write. Compelled to write each morning, the lines between fact and fiction are blurred, as John becomes a pivotal character in his own novel. Explosions, false identities, terrorists, international intrigue, high tech surveillance techniques, the U.S. government and kidnapping, all conspire to put John's life in serious danger until the main characters in his book rescues him.” What genres does your screenplay fall under? Action/Adventure/Mystery/Spy Thriller Why should this screenplay be made into a movie? ENTANGLED explores the relationship between consciousness, time as perceived by humans, and our quantum reality. The film will keep the audience guessing. What is real? What is fantasy? The audience will be guessing throughout especially when the last scene plays out. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

THE COMMUTER, 11min., USA Directed by Joseph Sauchelli A protagonist struggles to cope with a rough commute in the only way she knows how. Get to know the filmmaker: What motivated you to make this film? Really the urge to make something, particularly for cheap. When you know you are going to go down that route, you begin looking around at what you can use for free. Hoboken has this old fashioned train station I always admired and found cinematic, so I began to build a story around it. With college and my job I have commuted for quite some time, so I tried to bring that experience to this film – which immediately turned into a stressful thriller. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film? The idea for “The Commuter” is several years old, however it took some time to feel ready and finally take the step towards making the movie myself. As I reflect on the finished product a lesson I have taken away is that no one is ever really ready to make a film, and it is a risky mindset to subscribe to. On one hand you want to make sure your script and pre-production planning is to the best it could be, however you must be careful not to lean on the excuse that “it's not ready” like a crutch. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Watch the best scene reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UJaOxm5dyWk Mark Tyler gets out of prison after twelve years for a robbery gone awry. The loot is still out there. A corrupt cop, a local grifter, a femme fatale and the partner he left for dead all come marching out of his past to come for it. Get to know the writers: What is your screenplay about? Jeremy Hogan: To me it's about time. Lost time, how we spend our time, the futility of trying to catch up or outrun it. Aaron Krygier… Lost people looking for something to fulfill that emptiness. Whether it's something tangible or not. Love, revenge, greed. What genres does your screenplay fall under? JH: Neo-noir or crime thriller AK the same Why should this screenplay be made into a movie? JH: I'm biased, but I think it's well written. Meaty characters that actors might relish playing, and it's true to its genre, while subverting conventions and expectations in interesting or surprising ways. AK it wears its influences on its sleeve and its simplicity offers a ton of options for outlandish Ness. How would you describe this script in two words? JH: uncertain redemptionAK… Evoking humanity. What movie have you seen the most times in your life? JH: Probably a tie between “The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly” or “Miller's Crossing,” though “Adaptation” is catching up. AK… Heat, Blade Runner, Alien, Se7en are all contenders. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

COOP, 19min., USA Directed by Moriah Doepken After sustaining a bad injury, a stubborn retired sheriff must learn to talk with his estranged son as they build a fence together, or risk losing the relationship. Hannah Ehman chats with the lead actor of the award winning short film COOP —— Follow Interviewer Hannah Ehman on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ehmanhannah/ Watch Hannah's commercial spots: https://www.ispot.tv/topic/actor-actress/bP8/hannah-ehman Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Watch the best scene reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFCutMoedMI www.rightpurdy.com Harry loves Sandy and has planned “the big date” to propose, but between his twin, her twin, the guys from the Bobcat rugby team, Roxie, Linda, and One Eye'd Jacks, the world seems against it. Comedy. Get to know the writer: What is your screenplay about? Physical therapist Harry Goodman meticulously plans a romantic evening to propose to his intelligent and vivacious girlfriend Sandy. But what should be a seamless night of fine dining and heartfelt commitment rapidly unravels into chaos as meddling rugby teammates, flirtatious coworkers, a jealous bouncer, and an unexpected armed robbery sidetrack every effort. With the engagement ring left behind and a police chase unfolding, Harry and Sandy must navigate misunderstandings, mistaken identities, and family dysfunction—all while questioning how well they truly know each other. A raucous romantic comedy that careens through slapstick, screwball, and sincere emotional beats, The Big Date asks whether true love can survive a night gone completely off the rails. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Rock Island Prison 1864, 7min,. USA Directed by Joy Shannon Guarding Confederate POWS in a Civil War prison, a runaway slave now Union soldier, desperately fights for power, or faces returning to slavery. https://www.rockislandprison.com/ Hannah Ehman chats with the lead actor of the award winning short film ROCK ISLAND PRISON 1864) Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/omiette/ —— Follow Interviewer Hannah Ehman on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ehmanhannah/ Watch Hannah's commercial spots: https://www.ispot.tv/topic/actor-actress/bP8/hannah-ehman Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

JIWA KORUP. 15min., Malaysia Directed by MOHD HISHAM SALEH A low-ranking officer's corrupt leadership is scrutinised, compelling him to confront the repercussions of his unethical behaviour. This raw AI short film delves into themes of power and loyalty, illustrating how even the most reliable individuals can become lost to corruption. Get to know the filmmaker: What motivated you to make this film? I wrote the screenplay in 2020 amidst Malaysia's COVID lockdown, motivated by daily news of sacrifices made by frontline police and the 1MDB scandal revealing pervasive corruption. My aim was to explore what truly compels someone to betray their oath—whether it's power, love, or lust. By incorporating an LGBT relationship, I wanted to illustrate that love can remain untainted even amid profound corruption, and that true affection transcends legal and social boundaries. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take to make this film? Remarkably, the whole film was created in only 20 days, driven by nearly 20,000 AI prompts. I had written the entire screenplay years beforehand but commenced AI production in early 2025. A close friend assisted with color grading—harmonising rain-drenched blues, earthy browns, and refreshing highlights—and another collaborator crafted the sound design, incorporating industrial percussion, menacing drones, and eerie water-drip effects. Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

HOMEPLANET, 26min., USA Directed by Andrew Pritzker Barefoot on a country highway, a Disoriented Man is picked up by Two Local Cops who suspect he may be a space alien. http://qikfingerfilms.com/ https://www.instagram.com/qikfingerfilmsllc/ Hannah Ehman chats with the lead actor of the award winning short film HOMEPLANET Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/danielrdaly/ —— Follow Interviewer Hannah Ehman on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ehmanhannah/ Watch Hannah's commercial spots: https://www.ispot.tv/topic/actor-actress/bP8/hannah-ehman Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod

Seconds in Eternity, 42min., Estonia/Germany Directed by Christian Schu An elegant woman in her later years feels the relentless march of time as she mourns her lost youth and missed chances. Alone in a dimly lit room, her life seems to fade with each cigarette she smokes. She observes a vibrant young woman, envying her youth and vitality. Through her introspections, we explore her deep desires and regrets. The narrative, rich with poetry and flashbacks, takes a dramatic turn with a potential murder, leading to a surprising twist. Despite its dark beginnings as a Film Noir, the film transforms into a celebration of life, ending on a hopeful, life-affirming note. Hannah Ehman chats with the lead actress of the award winning film “Seconds in Eternity”. Marina Welsch Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iammarinawelsch/ https://secondsineternity.com/ https://instagram.com/christian_schu_film ——- Follow Interviewer Hannah Ehman on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ehmanhannah/ Watch Hannah's commercial spots: https://www.ispot.tv/topic/actor-actress/bP8/hannah-ehman Subscribe to the podcast: https://twitter.com/wildsoundpod https://www.instagram.com/wildsoundpod/ https://www.facebook.com/wildsoundpod