BLOCK 5 - STUDENT SHORTS

HUMANS!

Directed by Ramon Paradoa (The Project, The Bookcase, Low Light, Off Day)

When a mysterious, human-turning virus infects the world of the living dead, an outcast zombie must decide between succumbing to his world’s new threat or becoming it’s hero by embracing his inner flesh-eater.

Pukka

Directed by Oliver Lin

Mr. Mathew, a highschool math teacher and an authoritarian keeper ofhis classroom, manages the behavior of his students with the help ofa hidden camera. That is, until the arrival of a “new student,” Steven.After first impressions, Steven regards his new teacher as a bit of anoddity and believes he lacks integrity. With one confrontation afterthe other, Mr. Mathew’s rule over his classroom slips towards a powerstruggle.

Director Statement

Definition of the word pukka: genuine, authentic (the title of the film was intended to be ironic).

The idea behind the story of Pukka was derived from a sense of paranoia I felt towards a professor, who I believed, held a personal vendetta against me. Why? I have no definite answer, only speculation. Maybe the professor overheard me make a negative remark about him/her?

This led me to think, could an individual benefit from overhearing the negative and positive things said about them behind their backs? More specifically, how could one use this information to one’s advantage and what effects would it have on one’s mental well being.

Limited interactions with family, friends, coworkers, and peers, can only provide a glimpse of who an individual really is. In addition, we tend not to shy away from creating facades so you never know what really goes on behind closed doors; my intention for this film, simply put, was to open the doors.

What Other People Are Watching

Directed by Kevin Doan

In 2042, a young writer faces the dilemma of finding real human connections all the while meeting a young woman named Rainy who is trying to overcome her addiction to virtual reality.

In Memory of Us

Directed by Kristi League

Two sisters navigate the complex bonds of family on the night of their father's funeral.