“The Gloomy Veracity of Separation” was the winner of BEST STUDENT FILM at the March 2022 STUDENT Film Festival.
1. What motivated you to make this film?
This film was inspired from my own personal experiences with love. Love is one of the most complex, ambiguous and discussed feelings of today. I was in a relationship with someone that I truly cared about and loved, we loved each other so much that it turned into a hardcore obsession. As much as we loved each other, he dealt with a lot of emotional baggage, making love a difficult thing for him to handle. I as well dealt some emotional baggage, which led to me relying on only him for happiness. Love is one of the most indescribably beautiful feelings that can turn toxic so quickly. It’s been a year now that we’ve parted ways, and I know I’m young, but I can say that, that connection, as complicated as it was, will always hold a deep place in my heart. My experiences with this at such a young age have given me such wisdom and perspective.
2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
Ever since that relationship, I’ve dealt with a great deal of pain that inspired me to transform that into art. I guess technically it took me 3 years to really understand and see the different points of view on love. When you look at basically any film involving love, it’s always optimistic.
Our media, for decades now has romanticized love (as they should), giving viewers a world of fairytales but also conformity on the addiction and unhealthy obsession. When making the film though, I had a few friends over, unprepared when I suddenly sprung the idea onto them. They had actually come over because I was feeling quite down, I no longer wanted to sit and replay my past memories but instead create something out of it, I’m lucky to have had my two friends on board with idea.
3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
Somber, lost
4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
The biggest obstacle was actually having to visualize my idea for those involved. Having to explain heartbreak and love to two people that have never experienced it, is one of the hardest things one can do.
5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
I was actually really shocked at the compliments and admiration for it. As much as I was proud of that film, I had felt like I could’ve done better. Hearing the admiration for it and critiques definitely motivated me to continue.
Watch the Audience Feedback Video:
6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
I can’t even remember a time in my life where I DIDN’T want to make films. I’ve always been so intrigued and drawn to the idea of turning emotions into a physical aspect, able to show to an audience, leading them to the inside of your brain and the core of your thoughts. Creating a film means being comfortable with vulnerability.
7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
That’s such a difficult question because I’ve rewatched so many films. Films like; Come and See, The Graduate, When Harry Met Sally, After Hours, Cape Fear, Lost in Translation, Harold and Maude and Black Swan.
8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
I think that it’s all already satisfactory
9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
Great
10. What is your favorite meal?
I’m such a French Jew, I would have to say boeuf bourguignon or just an everything bagel with lox and schmear!
11. What is next for you? A new film?
I’ve already written another short but I’m working on a feature right now!
Matthew Toffolo's Summary 