MANAGE THIS! – dir. Michael Monks, Richard Waterhouse

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Original Film Title: MANAGE THIS!

Director’s Name: Michael Monks, Richard Waterhouse

Writer’s Name: Michael Monks, Richard Waterhouse, Tara OReilly

Producer: Tara Arielle OReilly, Mary Scripps

Country of Origin: United States

Country of Filming : United States

Language: English

Runtime: 19 minutes 31 seconds

Film Description:

Mia Foreman has held sway in Vermont for many decades discovering and managing such bands as Phish and Grace Potter, she has finally hit a wall on all levels. Her managing career has dwindled to two, unstable clients as she struggles to care for her father’s failing health. Ever hopeful, and focused on making her career work, Mia searches for the next Musical Star among a heap of eccentric artists in a valiant effort to secure her life, business and status as an ace of a music manager.

AI Awakened – dir. Matthew Blakemore

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Original Film Title: AI Awakened

Director’s Name: Matthew Blakemore

Writer’s Name: Matthew Blakemore

Producer: Matthew Blakemore

Country of Origin: United States

Country of Filming: United States

Language: English

Runtime: 2 minutes 18 seconds

Film Description:

“AI Awakened” is an enthralling short film that unfolds the journey of Matthew Blakemore, who transitions from harbouring a deep-seated fear of artificial intelligence to experiencing a profound enlightenment about its possibilities. Initially, Matthew’s perception of AI is heavily influenced by historical films like Terminator, where AI is depicted as a malevolent force destined to overpower humanity. This portrayal feeds his anxieties, painting a grim picture of a future dominated by uncontrollable technology.

The turning point in Matthew’s journey occurs at the fictional ‘Runway AI Conference’ in London, a pivotal event that serves as the catalyst for his transformation. The conference illuminates the revolutionary potential of AI in the business world, showcasing applications that promise to transform industries, innovate products, and create unprecedented opportunities for growth and advancement. Through presentations, demonstrations, and engaging discussions, Matthew is introduced to AI’s potential to be a force for good, driving progress and fostering innovation.

As he delves deeper into the world of AI, Matthew’s enlightenment is portrayed through his growing realisation of the technology’s capacity to not only augment human abilities but also to empower society to tackle complex challenges, improve quality of life, and envision a future where technology and humanity coexist harmoniously. This awakening shifts his perspective from one of fear to one of fascination and hopeful anticipation.

By the film’s conclusion, Matthew has embraced the endless possibilities of AI, viewing it not as a threat but as a tool for positive transformation. “AI Awakened” leaves its audience contemplating the potential of AI to reshape our world, urging them to look beyond the fears perpetuated by dystopian narratives and to imagine a future illuminated by the beneficial collaboration between humans and artificial intelligence.

Love & Lethal Endings – dir. Dan Trimarchi

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Original Film Title: Love & Lethal Endings

Director’s Name: Dan Trimarchi

Writer’s Name: Dan Trimarchi

Producer: Dan Trimarchi

Country of Origin: United States

Country of Filming: United States

Language: English

Runtime: 2 minutes 50 seconds

Film Description:

In this darkly comedic AI short film, hit woman Scarlett takes center stage as a guest on a dating podcast’s Valentine’s Day special. As she recounts her annual misdeeds, she weaves a wickedly entertaining tale of date nights that end six feet deep.

Welcome to the Whimsical Desert! (Going Solo) – dir. Heidi Elisabeth Appe

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Original Film Title: Welcome to the Whimsical Desert! (Going Solo)

Director’s Name: Heidi Elisabeth Appe

Writer’s Name: Heidi Elisabeth Appe

Producer: Heidi Elisabeth Appe

Country of Origin: United States

Country of Filming: United States

Language: English

Runtime: 14 minutes 30 seconds

Film Description:

I am building an episodic web series focusing on solo travel and its unique discoveries. This is all a one woman show, from the travel, to the shooting and editing. The web series stands to remind and encourage people that even simple travel can affect a life, and magic awaits, everywhere- expertise and expert equipment not needed. Over the course of the series I explore weird, unique and off-the beaten-path desert landmarks of California, Nevada and Arizona. Episodes are short to give viewers a quick peak into the essence of each spot.