VANAh – The Firm: A Sci-Fi Short Film Exploring Privacy, Personality, and Potatoes in a Dystopian Future
A short sci-fi fiction film that delves into the near future where privacy and personality are devalued, and the only currency is one’s mind, body, and data.
In this world, society grapples with advanced technology, genetic engineering, and the commodification of consciousness. The film is a blend of art, science fiction, and dark comedy, following two individuals navigating these profound changes.
A strong liberal philosophy was born, benefiting all, provided your finances and goals align with the conglomerate’s vision. Under the premise “Your safety is our highest priority.”
- Client: Personal Project
- Services Provided: Writing, Concept Development, Directing and Production
Awards and Exhibition at
Challenges:
Creating “VANAh – The Firm” presented several significant challenges:
- Concept Development: Crafting a futuristic world that is both believable and thought-provoking, with a narrative that intertwines complex themes such as privacy, technology, and societal evolution.
- Guerilla Filmmaking: Filming on location in North Zealand, Denmark, with limited resources required creativity and ingenuity to overcome logistical and technical hurdles.
- Post-Production: Editing a complex narrative with multiple layers and creating an immersive soundscape that enhances the film’s themes and mood.
Approach:
Creating “VANAh – The Firm” presented several significant challenges:
- Writing and Directing: I wrote a script that explored the implications of advanced technology on society, crafting characters and scenarios that reflect our potential future. Directing the film involved bringing this vision to life, guiding actors Thor Wang (Rolf) and Oliver Valbo Franck (Valdemar) through their performances.
- Production: We embarked on a guerilla filmmaking journey, shooting difficult scenes in the Danish countryside. This involved building sets, creating props, and managing a small, dedicated crew. Despite the constraints, we maintained high production values and captured visually compelling footage.
- Post-Production: The editing process was extensive, requiring meticulous attention to detail to ensure the narrative flowed seamlessly. I collaborated with sound designer Niklas Brandt Katborg to develop a rich, atmospheric soundscape that complemented the film’s visual elements.
Achievements:
The result of our efforts was a film that not only met but exceeded our expectations. “VANAh – The Firm” received critical acclaim and won first prize awards at prestigious film festivals in Paris, Milan, London, and Florence. It was also showcased at numerous film festivals in Berlin, Amsterdam, Stockholm, London, and Newport, Rhode Island, USA.
Conclusion:
“VANAh – The Firm” is a testament to the power of creativity and determination in overcoming the challenges of independent filmmaking. Through innovative storytelling, strategic direction, and collaborative production, we created a film that resonates with audiences and provokes thoughtful discussion about our future. This project has opened countless opportunities and demonstrated the impact of visionary filmmaking.
A heartfelt thanks to all who participated: Rolf: Thor Wang, Valdemar: Oliver Valbo Franck, Speaker: Jonathan Otskov, Dancer: Kiva Brynaa, Birgit: Janne SV Johannessen, Sound design and Music: Niklas Brandt Katborg.
