A psychotropic short film, pushing the boundaries of reality and fantasy. I explore the theme of escapism through drugs and digital technology. Scroll to watch the film and learn about the production.
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Watch Don't Test Me HERE
All production was completed by Nat Ocello and assisted by Clare Miller
About The Film
This experimental film is special to me as it was the first project I had full creative freedom from start to finish.
In addition to directing my first project, this was my first time shooting on 16mm film with a Bolex camera. Having an experimental theme was fitting as I learned the ropes of making a short film and developed my style.
I completed all the production elements, but could not have done it without the help of my friends and co-workers to bring this vision to life.
I made this film at a time when I felt like the universe was testing my patience. I used my passion for film, make-up, prop design, and editing as an outlet to escape the reality I was living in.
Through repetition, I emphasize the constant reminder of the world I am trying to escape with the usage of different substances. Even though I have seemingly "escaped" the real world, I always have to come back to reality.
This film was accepted in the DC Student Film Festival in 2021.
Production
Synopsis
In a magical realism and escapism experimental film, our main character drudgingly wakes up, yet again. They get up to start their typical day, just like any other. Except this time, the exit door does not lead to the reality we all know and live in right now. Entering a beautiful, whimsical, and carefree universe the main character is the happiest they've ever been. That is until reality finds its way back to you...
Below are images from the film and the film-making process!
