Sensation

The plot

Directed by  Ashley Brooke Nelson

A widower tries to find closure by taking a journey through the past and his senses.

Director Statement

Sensation was inspired by the senses. My co-writer and I wanted to build a story around these five elements, which lead us to a protagonist with a disability. This idea to build around a person with a disability was presented as a filmmaking challenge. As writers, we wanted to have a theme given to us and then, we create something from that theme. In other words, my co-writer and I were exploring the aspect of filmmaking limitations, and how those limitations can spark creativity. Thus, a journey told through the senses was born.

From the beginning, I knew the importance of showcasing the five senses both subtly and forthright were key in telling this story. The visual images are backed with the audio in an attempt to repeatedly remind the audience of the sensory journey. Though it is not necessary to enjoy the film, the journey through the senses can be appreciated, nonetheless.

This short film was shot in one garden location with a semi-professional crew geared with our own personal equipment. The cast consists of fellow filmmaking students and a local theater group actor. The overall production lasted around eight hours. As a group, we did not have much time, but we wanted this story to be told. Therefore, the goal was to start filming around noon and be done by eight that particular night.

The experience provided from Sensation has given me insight into developing characters that are unfamiliar to me. Personally, I am not blind, nor do I know anyone who is either. Thus, it took research to learn about braille, specific body movements, and the personal impacts of being without one of the five senses. From this film, I have learned not to shy away from challenges of the unfamiliar including stepping up a director for this is my directing debut.

• Age Rating General (12 and under)
• Running time 00:02:28 mins



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