Genre: Drama
Running Time: 15'
Aspect Ratio: 2:35:1 | Anamorphic
Screening: DCP, 4K
Shot On: Red Raptor VV | Atlas Mercury
Language: English
Running Time: 15'
Aspect Ratio: 2:35:1 | Anamorphic
Screening: DCP, 4K
Shot On: Red Raptor VV | Atlas Mercury
Language: English
Behind the Scenes
WRITER & DIRECTOR
EMMANUIL MORARI
Emmanuil, a first-generation immigrant who views the world through the lens of storytelling, is an evolving filmmaker. His international background - a childhood spent in Moldova, Ireland,and Canada - significantly influences his distinctive voice and genre-blended work, with a keen focus on cathartic magic realism.
His work features several successful shorts like "She Lies Beautiful", "Who's a Good Boy", "Hello Crazy", and "Just 4 Kicks.” He as over 30 shorts and multiple features written to his name.
A founding member of Take7 Productions, Emmanuil has produced and directed for brands such as Red Bull, Jack Daniels and the NBA.
Guided by an unwavering belief in the transformative potential of storytelling, Emmanuilcollaborates closely with Indigenous communities to safeguard their invaluable wisdom and knowledge.
In recent endeavors, Emmanuil has delved into documentary work with Benki Piyako, the spiritual leader of the Ashaninka people in the Brazilian Amazon.
LINE PRODUCER
RYAN ALLSOP
Ryan Allsop is an award-winning filmmaker with experience spanning short films, features, and series development. His work has screened at festivals nationwide, and he recently produced a proof-of-concept dramedy series starring Richard Karn (Home Improvement).
Ryan combines a strong creative background as a writer-director with the organizational skills of a producer, making him adept at balancing story with schedule and budget. He thrives on collaboration and brings steady leadership and resourcefulness to every production.
PRODUCER
JOSH HUGHES
Josh Hughes is a Wisconsin-based filmmaker and producer with a background in narrative, documentary, and branded content. A graduate of UW-Oshkosh, Josh first adapted Stephen King’s Strawberry Spring as part of the “Dollar Baby” program, sparking a career that has spanned short films, proof-of-concept pilots, and commercial work.
By day he serves as a video producer at Carroll University, while continuing to develop independent projects as both writer and producer. A lifelong storyteller (and devoted Stephen King fan), Josh brings meticulous planning, sharp instincts, and deep passion for story to every production.
DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY
SPENCER ORTEGA
Spencer Ortega is a Milwaukee-based cinematographer whose career began at UWM film school and quickly flourished on set. Known as one of the city’s top gaffers, he’s shaped the look of countless shorts, features, commercials,and music videos over the past 15 years.
As a DP, Spencer has lensed campaigns for the NBA, including promos for the Milwaukee Bucks and Chicago Bulls, bringing a colorful yet cinematic style that’s full of character. His eye for light and storytelling instincts make him both a technician and an artist, using the camera to serve emotion above all else.
As a DP, Spencer has lensed campaigns for the NBA, including promos for the Milwaukee Bucks and Chicago Bulls, bringing a colorful yet cinematic style that’s full of character. His eye for light and storytelling instincts make him both a technician and an artist, using the camera to serve emotion above all else.
With dozens of narrative credits to his name, Spencer’s work is marked by craft, personality, and a deep commitment to story.
PUPPETEER
FRANK CESARIO
Frank Cesario is a Chicago-based puppeteer and builder whose love of characters began with Pokémon, Studio Ghibli films, and the Muppets. Teaching himself to build and perform as a teenager, he quickly developed a unique style influenced by anime and game culture. His early YouTube puppet work led to collaborations with fellow artists, eventually connecting him to Donkey Hodie creator David Rudman.
On PBS’s Donkey Hodie, Frank has worn many hats: puppeteering, puppet wrangling, costume and prop building. His playful yet precise craft brings characters to life with warmth and imagination, making him a rising voice in contemporary puppetry.