Director Mikey Riva’s contribution to this year’s HollyShorts Film Festival is a wonderful, silly and hilarious six minute short that focuses on three friends, looking to reconnect as they spend time on a remote island. After a night of awkward conversation, a bit of weed and a strange book, their time together changes drastically, as it turns out they might not be one only ones in the isolated location. With some impeccable comedic timing, a few jump scares and its fair share of wild antics, it’s sure to be a film that leaves audiences wanting more. Starring Jack Gibson, Ariana Ron Pedrique and Adam Riva, it’s a film with great chemistry and a bit of a comedic horror bent that anyone who gets a chance to see it will surely love. The film will be screening in the Action block on Tuesday, August 15th, which starts at 10 PM. For those who can be in Los Angeles to see it, tickets can be found here. Anyone unable to attend, it’ll also be available on BitPix. Mikey also took the time out for an interview, and we’re very grateful that he did so. Check out our talk below!
What inspired you to start making films?
I grew up under my father’s desk, a production designer. So, from a very young age, I understood two major things: One, Crafty is where free donuts are. Two, after watching the art department construct actual worlds, from temples to cookie-cutter houses, I realized adults can play make-believe, too.
What were the challenges in making this project?
DOOMSCROLL was a case study exercise with ROE visuals on a Virtual Production stage—the same panels and technology high-budget productions like The Mandalorian use. For our short film, almost all of our production design was created using Unreal engine. However, to make the depth look realistic, we added practical props to help create a normal-looking depth of field to “fool” the audience. The biggest challenge for me was understanding how these virtual surroundings would play.
Is there any type of message or emotion that you hope the viewer takes away from watching this film?
My favorite films usually blend and bend genres, giving me an authentic take on how life usually is. Not just a drama or a comedy, but a multitude of different emotions that build a steady narrative. Since we are a horror/comedy, I hope you feel spooked at times but can release that tension with a laugh, leaving you on the edge of your seat.
How does it feel to be able to screen the film at HollyShorts?
I am grateful for the opportunity to return to Hollyshorts for my second year in a row. It was a highlight of my festival run last year for my previous short PTERRY. With all of the informative panels and networking events where you can meet other filmmakers like yourself while being smack in the middle of Hollywood, you feel a specific type of buzz that’s hard to match.
What’s on the horizon for you?
I’m excited to announce that I am smack in the middle of our fundraising campaign for my debut feature, based on our short, DOOMSCROLL. Since our short is just 6 minutes long, it has become a massive help when pitching it as a proof of concept when accompanied by our feature script/deck
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