Innuendo International Film Festival: A Showcase of Diverse and Provocative Cinema — Feb 28 | Mar 1, 2024
The Innuendo Film Fest curated by Sara Ferro and Chris Weil presents a captivating array of films that pushes boundaries, sparked conversations, and left lasting impressions on audiences. From thought-provoking documentaries to gripping dramas and experimental narratives, the festival showcases a rich diversity and artistic innovation present in contemporary cinema.
The film “All Alone Together,” directed by Maximus Jenkins, revolves around a tormented filmmaker who experiences a surge in success, only to find that the horrors depicted in his film begin to infiltrate his own reality. The key cast includes Alex Nimrod, Jordan Rice, Brandon Whipple, and others. Written by Alex Nimrod and produced by Jordan Rice, Alex Nimrod, and Maximus Jenkins, the project also involves various other credits such as director of photography, executive producers, associate producers, and more. It falls under the genres of psychological thriller and horror, originating from the United States with a duration of 01:45:46. The completion date for the feature, categorized as a student project, is September 25, 2023.
“Anche il riccio respira” (The Breath of a Sea Urchin) is a short film directed by Domenico Pietropaolo. The story revolves around an 18-year-old boy who begins to feel disconnected from his friends and the people around him, ultimately leading him to make a significant decision about his future. The key cast includes Andrea Pannofino, Beatrice Lotti, Damiano Lepri, Pietro Michelini, and Pietro Moser. Written by Domenico Pietropaolo and produced by Pietro Michelini, the film also credits various other contributors such as the 1st assistant director, script supervisor, set designer, sound engineer, editor, costume designer, and more. Originating from Italy, the short film has a duration of 00:17:40 and is in the Italian language. It was completed on February 22, 2023.
“Carousel” is a feature film directed by Jason Nancarrow. The storyline follows Jake Keller, a reporter from Dallas, as he delves into a surveillance conspiracy within a “Smart City” framework. Jake’s investigation leads him through various dangerous situations, from the offices of an oil CEO to drug dens armed with guns. Along the way, he uncovers a web of corruption involving politicians, lobbyists, assassins from the Deep State, and even gray aliens, though the latter may be a figment of his imagination. With few allies and a rising body count from suspicious accidents, the film explores the race against time to unravel the conspiracy before Jake’s sanity unravels. The key cast includes Jason Nancarrow, George Welder, Evan Mason, Brian Hathorn, and Michael Guinn. Written by Jason Nancarrow and produced by Michael J. Mills, the film boasts a range of other contributors such as executive producers, co-producers, directors of photography, editors, and more. Originating from the United States, “Carousel” has a duration of 01:38:53 and is in the English language. It was completed on March 9, 2023.
“Cose Di Famiglia / Family Matters” is a short film directed by Martinus Tocchi. The story revolves around the death of a family member, prompting a family reunion. The reunion involves two twin brothers, Fabio and Sveva, along with their younger brother Stefano. The gathering takes place at a country villa where Sveva awaits their arrival. The key cast includes Fosca Banchelli, Laura Sellari, and Martinus Tocchi. Written and produced by Martinus Tocchi, the film is in the Italian language and has a duration of 00:15:00. It was completed on October 13, 2022.
“Dino’s Dark Room” is a documentary film directed by Corrado Rizza. It chronicles the life of Dino Pedriali, a Roman photographer renowned for his iconic nude photographs of Pier Paolo Pasolini. Throughout his remarkable life, Pedriali forged relationships with prominent artists such as Man Ray and Andy Warhol. The key cast includes Pietro De Silva, Achille Bonito Oliva, Raffaele Curi, and Dino Pedriali himself. Written and produced by Corrado Rizza, the documentary explores the fascinating journey of Pedriali’s career and his connections within the art world. The film, in the Italian language, has a duration of 01:20:00 and was completed on June 1, 2023.
“Fuliggine” (Foulness) is a short drama film directed by Domenico Pisani. The story revolves around Antonio, a forty-five-year-old charcoal burner from Calabria, who still resides with his father, a harsh and aggressive presence. The film delves into themes of job insecurity and the pervasive sense of absence as a universal condition. The key cast includes Anna Maria De Luca, Carmelo Giordano, Domenico Maiolo, and Giuseppe Vellone. Written by Domenico Pisani and Vasco Meddi, the film is produced by Reboto Production. The cinematography is by Davide Manca, with editing by Simone Nazzareno Valente, and set design by Simone Setzi. Domenico Pisani also serves as the costume designer, with Silvia Vavalà handling makeup and Massimiliano Bruno responsible for hairstyles. Cinzia Sanna acts as the line producer, while Andrea Di Martino oversees sound engineering and Yehezkel Raz provides the music. Originating from Italy, the short film has a duration of 00:16:00 and is in the Italian language. It was completed on July 1, 2023.
“Hum” is a short film directed by Ryan Kilbourne, depicting the story of a recently retired woman who begins to hear a peculiar noise that her husband cannot perceive. The film explores whether the sound is a figment of her imagination or if there is indeed something ominous lurking in the surroundings. The key cast includes Dawnie Finn, Mark Starratt, and Shawn Vincent. Written by Ryan Kilbourne, the project also involves Lianne Graham as producer and 1st AD, with Ryan Kilbourne also serving as the director of photography and editor. Additional credits include Ash Hardman as the camera operator, Maria Glover as 1st AC, and Sam Burns as the drone operator. Brenda Andrade and Luka Reshmi handle hair and makeup, while Chanelle Berlingeri takes care of costumes and set dressing. The grip and electric swing are managed by Aaron Kothiringer, Andrew Osawe, and Luka Reshmi, while Aaron Kothiringer and Andrew Osawe are also the boom operators. Originating from Canada, the short film falls under the genres of drama and thriller, with a duration of 00:15:11 in the English language. It was completed on April 14, 2023.
“I’m not a racist, but…” is a music video shot in Brussels, based on the song of the same name. It features the children of the “Center Communautaire Maritime (CCM)” of Molenbeek-Saint-Jean. The video depicts two characters confronting each other in various settings such as a pub, a car in a parking lot, and while walking in the city. The main character expresses prejudice and clichés in a strong and cynical manner, while the other character opposes them. The irony of the text is highlighted by the exaggerated behavior of the main character and the reactions of the interlocutor. Children’s games, laughter, and spontaneous attitudes underscore the absurdity of prejudice and clichés in an evolving world. Midway through the video, the main character is shown in his home kitchen, preparing a dish using a tagine and wearing a djellaba. This scene reflects the protagonist’s inconsistency, torn between prejudice and an attraction to other cultures. The video aims to convey the message that despite cultural differences, we are all made of the same substance, and what sets us apart should be considered an asset rather than a divisive element. The choreography involving the children and the two characters encourages viewers to engage and confront each other to foster understanding and coexistence in an increasingly multicultural and multi-ethnic world. Directed by Marco Locurcio, the key cast includes Stefano Cinti and Guido Castellano. It was written by Stefano Cinti and Marco Locurcio, with Stefano Cinti also serving as the producer. Originating from Belgium, the music video has a duration of 00:04:14 and is in the Italian language. It was completed on April 1, 2022.
“Knife, Chocolate” is an experimental short film directed by Hooshmand Varaei, portraying the facade of a seemingly happy family. However, within this family, the son exhibits antisocial, psychotic, skeptic, and sexist behavior, evaluating women based on the scent of their cosmetics and categorizing them accordingly. He goes to extreme lengths, mentally and emotionally torturing his sisters who merely desire to express themselves through makeup, marriage, and personal choices. The daughters, akin to the unjustly persecuted “Mahsa Amini,” are depicted as victims of societal norms and expectations, facing condemnation solely for their gender. The film sheds light on the struggles of women who aspire for autonomy and freedom, echoing the cries of those oppressed by societal constraints. Directed by Hooshmand Varaei and starring Hamid Pishghadam, the film delves into themes of gender inequality, oppression, and societal pressure. Produced by Latifeh Eine Jafari, Dr. Houshang Varaei, and MOJENO Film School, “Knife, Chocolate” falls under the genres of black comedy, psychological drama, and women’s issues. Originating from Iran, the film is in Persian and has a duration of 00:15:00. It was completed on July 6, 2022, offering a poignant reflection on the struggles faced by women seeking liberation in a patriarchal society.
“Le gemelle Eternalismo” (The Twins Eternalism) is a short film directed by Francesco Therese, portraying the story of two twins in the 1960s. One twin resides on Earth, while the other serves as an astronaut floating in space. The narrative unfolds as the astronaut twin returns to Earth after an extended period in space, finding her twin sister fifty years older than her, despite them being the same age when she departed. Directed by Francesco Therese and featuring Giorgia Darell in the key cast, the film explores themes of time dilation, the passage of time, and the bond between siblings. Produced by Laura Catalano, “Le gemelle Eternalismo” delves into the concept of eternalism and the interconnectedness of past, present, and future. Originating from Italy, the short film has a duration of 00:03:00 and was completed on June 12, 2023. It offers a contemplative exploration of time and familial relationships within the context of science fiction.
“Letters from the Blue” is a documentary feature exploring the unique relationships formed between inmates on Death Row and their penpals outside. Directed by Nick Calori and Nico Sersale, the film delves into the profound connections forged through correspondence, where the dramatic life stories of inmates intersect with the everyday struggles of their penpals. Through the heartfelt words exchanged in letters, viewers are immersed in the intimate dynamics of these relationships, where tales of tragedy and redemption intertwine with mundane domestic matters. Produced by Nico Sersale and Nick Calori, the documentary sheds light on the human experience behind bars and the impact of compassion and connection on both sides of the prison walls. The film features music by Mimis Nikolopoulos, with Christopher Hird serving as executive producer and Henning Knoepfel as sound designer. Graphics and titles are provided by Garry Waller, with Elettra Pizzi as associate producer and Alex Grigoras as color grader. Originating from the United Kingdom and presented in English, “Letters from the Blue” has a duration of 00:55:23 and was completed on January 1, 2023. It offers a poignant exploration of empathy, resilience, and the power of human connection in the face of adversity.
“Little Yellow Flower” is an experimental short film directed by Chien-Ping Lin, delving into the complex dynamics of family relationships and the weight of past traumas. The story follows photo retoucher A-nan as he returns to his childhood home, which holds painful memories for him. The sight of eerily beautiful yellow flowers on the loofah trellis triggers memories of a childhood incident where A-nan accidentally killed these flowers while trying to eradicate ants with insecticide, leading to a severe beating from his father. Now, as an elderly and paralyzed man covered in ants, A-nan’s father serves as a haunting reminder of their troubled past. A-nan’s conflicted emotions resurface as he grapples with the tangled relationship with his father and seeks to reconcile with the memories of his youth. He repeats the cycle of spraying and killing ants, but ultimately, he must confront the deeper roots of his familial discord. Starring Huai-Zhong Wang, Ming-Siou Tsai, and Bozhi Yang, the film explores themes of regret, forgiveness, and the quest for redemption. Directed and produced by Chien-Ping Lin, with cinematography also by Lin, “Little Yellow Flower” is an introspective exploration of the human condition. Originating from Taiwan and presented in Chinese and Chinese — Min Nan languages, the film has a duration of 00:29:55 and was completed on October 15, 2021. It offers a poignant reflection on the enduring impact of childhood trauma and the possibility of healing through confronting the past.
“Lori and the Six Six Sixties” is an experimental feature film directed by Grant McPhee, presenting “The Other Side of the Forest,” a fantasy Pop-Art fairytale starring Lori Stott and Ashley Sutherland. The story revolves around Lori, a shy young woman seeking fame in the 1960s folk-music underground. Her journey to stardom takes an unexpected turn, leading her beyond the familiar music scene into a forgotten realm of rural landscapes, magic, myth, and mysterious fallen angels. The film boldly mixes influences from 1960s British youth culture, including references to films like “Smashing Time” and Carnaby Street newsreels, as well as counter-culture texts such as “The White Goddess,” “The House on the Borderland,” and “The Golden Bough.” It explores themes of identity, fame, and the allure of the unknown while challenging traditional narrative structures and genre tropes. Filmed with analogue sound and film equipment, including various 16mm and Super8 processing techniques, the production incorporates hand developing, vintage cameras, sellotaped film editing, scratching, and film looping. The editing was handled by Andy Morrison, known for his work on notable productions like “Lord of the Rings,” “Outlander,” and “The Man Who Fell to Earth.” The film’s soundtrack is exclusively composed by Post-Punk legend Jowe Head, formerly of Swell Maps and Television Personalities, adding to the immersive experience of the narrative. Originating from the United Kingdom and presented in English, “Lori and the Six Six Sixties” has a duration of 01:10:22 and was completed on March 30, 2023. It offers viewers an enchanting journey through a vibrant and surreal world, blending elements of fantasy, experimental filmmaking, and musical performances.
“Rival” is a documentary short film directed by Frank Oly, which explores the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the field of photography. Through candid interviews with photographers from around the world, the film delves into the profound shifts occurring in the creative landscape. As AI blurs the boundaries between human-generated and machine-generated images, “Rival” prompts viewers to reflect on the implications of this technological advancement in the realm of visual art. Originating from Australia and presented in English and Japanese, the documentary has a duration of 00:30:00 and was completed on December 8, 2023.
“Shtander, shtander, Katya!” is a short film directed by Alexandra Shadrina, portraying the story of two teenagers whose relationship evolves from friendship to love. However, when one confesses their feelings, the other is unable to reciprocate but fears losing their friendship. A series of events, including a silly game, leads to the unraveling of their relationship. Starring Stella Frišman and David Babayan, the film explores themes of teenage drama and the complexities of adolescent emotions. Produced by Anna Miller, “Shtander, shtander, Katya!” originates from Estonia and is presented in Russian. It has a duration of 00:13:31 and was completed on June 29, 2023.
“Soluzione Fisiologica” is a short film directed by Luca Maria Piccolo. The story revolves around an ostensibly ordinary phone call between a man and a sex worker, but beneath the surface lies a much deeper and complex intent. It portrays a gesture of profound understanding and an act of unconditional love. Starring Stefano Accorsi, Paola Minaccioni, Edoardo Purgatori, Sandro Stefanini, Riccardo Catenacci, and Andrea Rossi, the film explores themes of human connection, empathy, and intimacy. The film was written by Luca Maria Piccolo and produced by Jacopo Pica, Elena Pedrazzini, Tomaso Pessina, and Luca Maria Piccolo. Cristiano Di Nicola served as the Director of Photography (DOP), with editing by Marcello Saurino and music by Jean Michel Snider and Umberto Gaudino. Sound was handled by Jacopo Lattanzio, costumes by Sara Fanelli, and production design by Alessandro Iacopelli. Originating from Italy and presented in the Italian language, “Soluzione Fisiologica / Pleasure” has a duration of 00:15:00 and was completed on May 1, 2023. It delves into the complexities of human relationships and emotions, offering a nuanced exploration of love and understanding.
“The Concierge” follows Akino, a trainee concierge at the Hokkyoku Department Store, a unique establishment that caters exclusively to animals. Under the guidance of the floor manager and senior concierges, Akino endeavors to fulfill the diverse needs and requests of the store’s animal clientele. As she navigates through various challenges, Akino strives to prove herself worthy of becoming a full-fledged concierge. Directed by Yoshimi Itazu, the animation features Natsumi Kawaida, Takeo Otsuka, and Kenjiro Tsuda in key roles. The screenplay is penned by Satomi Oshima, with character designs by Chie Morita. The animation production is handled by Production I.G. Originating from the United States and presented in the Japanese language, “The Concierge” offers a whimsical and heartwarming exploration of dedication, compassion, and the bonds between humans and animals.
“The Consulting Virus” is a documentary feature directed by Riccardo Bagnato Bulgarelli, shedding light on the decision-making processes behind the procurement of vaccines during the pandemic. The film reveals that numerous European governments sought assistance from major global consulting firms such as McKinsey, Deloitte, Accenture, and KPMG, among others. Despite the potential conflicts of interest and the lack of sufficient transparency legislation, these firms played a significant role in advising governments on vaccine procurement. The documentary argues that these consulting firms have long influenced economic and political spheres, and the pandemic has only highlighted these connections. While Covid-19 has impacted millions worldwide, the film suggests that a “consulting virus” has infected governments globally. Produced by Pietro Bernaschina and Antonio Civile, the film features collaboration from Emiliano Bos and Daniela Fabello. Legal advice was provided by Laura Bernasconi, with graphics by Fabrizio Bernasconi and film editing by Marilyne Zeller. The cinematography team includes Gilles Brisseau, Michael Clément, Eric Jacquin, Massimo Incollingo, Philippe Eveque, François Ducobu, and Guillaume Parent. Originating from Switzerland, “The Consulting Virus” is presented in English, French, and Italian languages, and has a duration of 01:00:58. Completed on June 12, 2023, the documentary offers a critical examination of the intersection between consulting firms, government decision-making, and public health during the pandemic.
“The Cure” tells the story of Federico, a modern prince residing in the De Angelis household, where time seems to pass slowly. Federico, feeling bored and detached from the world, seeks solace in his own detachment. However, his life takes a transformative turn when he encounters a special friend. Through this friendship, Federico finds an opportunity to emerge from the ancient ruins of his family and undergo a personal rebirth. Directed by Giuseppe Burrafato, the short film features Francesco Savino, Jane Alexander, Marta Meneghetti, and Christoph Hulsen in key roles. The screenplay is written by Giuseppe Burrafato. The cinematography is by Simone Sadocco, with music composed by Luca Zadra. Elisa Valenti handles the makeup, while Simone Margiotta takes on the editing duties. Originating from Italy, “The Cure” has a duration of 00:12:00 and was completed on January 31, 2023. It offers viewers a glimpse into the internal struggles and potential for growth within a privileged yet troubled household.
“The First Seal” unfolds in 1873, following a young pioneer family navigating the wilderness. Along their journey, they encounter a stranger claiming to be a rancher. However, the young girl within the family soon discovers that the rancher is haunted by a white horse. As she delves deeper into this mystery, she becomes convinced that they are on the brink of witnessing an extraordinary event foretold in the Book of Revelations. Directed by River Roubaix, the film features Joni Adhal, Amylea Meiklejohn, and River Roubaix in key roles. The screenplay is crafted by River Roubaix, with Victor Pytko, Eric T Miller, Morey Reimund, and Ellen Lawer Stella serving as producers. Originating from the United States and presented in English, “The First Seal” is a feature film with a runtime of 01:15:44. It blends elements of Western, religious themes, and drama to explore themes of faith, prophecy, and the supernatural within the context of the American frontier.
“The Special Train” depicts a chance encounter between Saverio, a student, and Cataldo, a teacher, on a summer afternoon in the countryside they usually observe from the train window. As they converse, Saverio shares a poem he has just written, leading to a deeper connection between them. Directed by Luigi Cianciaruso, the film stars Franco Ferrante and Pierdomenico Minafra in key roles. The screenplay is written by Luigi Cianciaruso. Produced by Edoardo Margotti, Ilaria Pascale, and Greta Zamparini, with Silvia Morigi and Leila Rusciani serving as executive producers, “The Special Train” is dedicated to the victims of a train crash that occurred between Andria and Corato in Puglia, Italy, in 2016. The film, presented in Italian, has a duration of 00:09:29 and was completed on July 3, 2023. It blends elements of fiction, narrative, and drama to explore themes of connection, reflection, and remembrance.
“The Tenants” is set in near-future Seoul, where pollution and housing issues are rampant. Shin-dong faces the challenge of finding a new rental due to his landlord’s notice. In a desperate attempt to complicate eviction, Shin-dong decides to rent out part of his place, following his friend’s suggestion. When a peculiar newlywed couple expresses interest in living in the bathroom, Shin-dong reluctantly agrees. However, their bizarre behaviors soon prove to be intolerable, leading to unexpected consequences. Directed by Eun-kyoung Yoon, the film stars Dae-geon Kim and Dong-won Heo in key roles. The screenplay is written by Eun-kyoung Yoon, who also serves as one of the producers alongside Joseph Bahng. Originating from South Korea and presented in Korean, “The Tenants” is a feature film with a duration of 01:28:41. It blends elements of science fiction, fantasy, black comedy, and thriller genres to offer a unique and intriguing narrative set against the backdrop of a dystopian future Seoul.
“Una Risata ci Salverà” / “A Laugh Will Save Us” is a documentary film that explores the intersection of humor, satire and religion, analyzing the mutual influence between them. Through interviews with comedians, artists and scholars, the film explores irreverent jokes, sly parodies and bold caricatures that challenge religious dogma. It reflects on the critical role of humor in faith and spirituality, examining its ability to challenge social conventions and initiate dialogues on topics considered sacred. Directed by Michelangelo Gregori, the documentary features a number of key figures in the world of humor, religion and Italian culture, including Sergio Staino, Moni Ovadia, Piergiorgio Odifreddi and many others. It explores the power of comedy in the context of religions, offering new perspectives on contemporary cultural dynamics. The film, of Italian origin and presented in Italian language, has a running time of 01:00:00 and was completed on June 12, 2023. It invites viewers to challenge power through liberating laughter, opening new horizons of understanding on the relationships between humor, religion and society.
“Via Don Minzoni n. 6” è un film che segue Andrea, un uomo di 28 anni, mentre trascorre l’ultima notte nella casa di Via Don Minzoni n. 6, dove è cresciuto con sua nonna appena scomparsa. Ha il compito di chiudere le scatole e consegnare le chiavi ai nuovi proprietari la mattina successiva. Durante queste ultime ventiquattr’ore, Andrea si ritrova immerso nei ricordi e negli affetti legati alla sua infanzia, ricordando spazi, colori e oggetti che hanno segnato il suo passato. In particolare, l’evento culminante della serata è un’ultima partita di poker con il suo gruppo storico di amici, una tradizione che giunge al termine con la vendita della casa. In questo processo di elaborazione della perdita, Andrea cerca anche una misteriosa scatola blu che contiene qualcosa di molto prezioso. Diretto da Andrea Caciagli, il film offre uno sguardo intimo e riflessivo sulla nostalgia, sul passaggio del tempo e sulle connessioni familiari. Il cast include Francesco Gaudiello, Lia Greco, Mirko Risaliti e Irene Battaglia. Con una durata di 01:27:32, è stato completato il 12 aprile 2023. Il film esplora il tema universale della perdita e della ricerca di significato nelle esperienze passate, offrendo uno sguardo toccante sulla transizione verso nuovi capitoli della vita.
“Westermarck Effect” is a feature film directed by Saara Lamberg. The story revolves around Sally and Sam, who were separated when Sally gave Sam up for adoption twenty years ago. When they reunite, they unexpectedly fall romantically in love with each other, despite their biological relationship. The film explores the consequences of their forbidden love, delving into the complexities of human emotions and relationships. The key cast includes Saara Lamberg and Jayden Denke, while Saara Lamberg also serves as the writer and producer of the film. With a duration of 01:36:04, the film falls under the genres of Drama, Romance, and Arthouse. It originates from Australia and was completed on May 1, 2022. The film is likely to explore themes of love, identity, and the moral dilemmas surrounding taboo relationships.
The Innuendo Film Festival once again proves to be a platform for bold and innovative cinema, showcasing the power of film to entertain, educate, and inspire audiences around the world.
