ME & ME played to rave reviews at the June 2022 CHICAGO Feedback Film Festival.
1. What motivated you to make this film?
Concept-wise, I made Me & Me to poke fun at Time Travel – which admittedly is a trope I have a love/hate relationship for… except it’s more hate/hate. The premise of the film was actually based off characters and world created from a Pilot episode I wrote five years ago.
Also, I love animation, and I wanted to create a short form animated comedy that made me chuckle. I think this kinda did (a little).
2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
I’m a bit ashamed to say, it took about two years to make – which is sad since it’s only a two minute film. It should have taken me a lot less, but there were a lot of stops and starts.
3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
Whimsical Absurdity
4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
I did everything myself so the biggest obstacle was time. Animation is my passion, but it is very time intensive. Also, I had to deal with my future-self coming to my timeline and hitting me up for money… dude’s a loser.
5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
Joy – for people not taking it too seriously and just enjoying the ride. It’s not meant to make you think too hard (but maybe a little). Ultimately, its intention is to be entertaining and not overanalyzed – and it was great to see the film received that way.
Watch the Audience Feedback Video:
6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
After college, I really got into animation (and anime). The prospect of making animated films – particularly of the comedic variety – was just something I loved.
7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
The Matrix
8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
This festival was very transparent and creator friendly. Those qualities are encouraging and nurturing for filmmakers, no matter where they are in their career.
9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
It was great. They seem to really care about the creator’s experiences, and I definitely appreciate that.
10. What is your favorite meal?
Ramen… love it.
11. What is next for you? A new film?
I’m working on writing a new animated pilot. I’m also putting some touch-ups on a separate animated pilot. Rest assured, Time travel is not involved with either. Where they go from there, I’m still figuring out.
Matthew Toffolo's Summary 