STAY HOME STAY SAFE, 20min,. Czech Republic
Directed by Martin Bystriansky
The story is centered in the intimate space of the shelter, where artificial intelligence creates inspiring virtual simulations for the writer. In the virtual world, the writer meets his muse, but she is not real enough. He therefore decides to leave the shelter. However, the artificial intelligence has a duty to keep the writer safe from reality and, above all, from himself.
https://instagram.com/stayhomestaysafe.film
Get to know the filmmaker:
1. What motivated you to make this film?
What we experienced years ago it was huge. To be honest, in my opinion one of the most crazy apocalyptic scenarios became reality. We were living it. The depth of emotions out bursted into various outlooks for life and future possibilities how to survive. So my main motivation was to reflect on the pandemic period along with the progress of technology development: such as virtual reality and artificial intelligence. I think these
days it is essential to talk about experiences with these topics and also to look for possible predictions for the future.
2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
It was less than two years. It’s a student film and finding the right people for the crew as well as motivating them into a low-budget project was most challenging. Starting with the script continuing with the revisualizations until the actual filming, it took a year and a half. Filming took 5 days. Post-production of the film took another 5 months.
3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
The subconscious thriller
4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
Definitely working with the visual effects. We used Artificial Intelligence – Stable Diffusion to edit the scenes of the Simulations. Nowadays, this effect has gradually started to be used . But six months ago it was an innovative procedure in post-production. This effect was to accurately visually express the main character’s dream fantasy and how he remembers Sarah. The fact that we used artificial intelligence in postproduction is quite meta. And right in the storyline these images are also created by artificial intelligence.
5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
So very exciting, happy and encouraging. I’m thankful for the impact the film had on the audience and I’m sincerely glad for the feedback that confirmed to me that the film works as it should.
6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
When I was about 10 years old. I originally wanted to be a costume designer. Later I studied animation, and then I found out that directing live action film is what fulfills me.
7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
The Signs by M. Night Shyamalan starring Mel Gibson. Great script, excellent directing and unforgettable music.
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’m happy with everything you’ve offered.
9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
Very easy, clever and effective.
10. What is your favorite meal?
I don’t exactly have a favorite meal but I prefer Italian cuisine.
11. What is next for you? A new film?
There’s more but I’d like to move into more audio-visual spheres such ae advertising, music videos, TV series but definitely feature film.
Matthew Toffolo's Summary 