In this captivating debut short film, Untitled, the filmmaker delves deep into the shadows of ambition, self-doubt, and the often invisible tension between success and failure. Exploring the complex relationship between two characters, John and Rex, Untitled weaves a psychological narrative that blurs the line between reality and imagination. Through carefully crafted visuals and intense character dynamics, the film reflects the emotional landscape familiar to any creative struggling with self-worth and comparison. In this interview, the filmmaker discusses the inspiration behind Untitled, the challenges of debut filmmaking, and the powerful themes they hope will resonate with audiences.
Patrick Roy, UniversalCinema Magazine (UM): Untitled explores the tension between reality and imagination, as well as ambition and desperation. What inspired you to tackle these themes, and how did you develop the storyline for the film?
Guangxi Chen (GC): I’ve always wanted to write stories, and when I struggle to get words on the page, I get anxious. During one of these times, I came across a line in a book that said something like, “No one can ever be fully honest, even with themselves.” That line sparked the idea for John’s dialogue in the Q&A scene.
(UM): The relationship between John and Rex is central to the plot. How did you approach crafting the dynamic between these two characters, and what do you hope audiences take away from their interactions?
(GC): In designing these two characters, I wanted their connection to be more than just a friendship; it’s also about John’s hidden jealousy toward Rex’s success and his growing self-doubt. In the pursuit of success and self-identity, people can easily lose themselves by constantly comparing themselves to others—even to the point of dark thoughts. I hope this short film makes viewers think about relationships and self-worth, especially how we find our own balance when facing others’ achievements.
(UM): Psychological thrillers often play with audience perceptions and expectations. How did you approach building suspense and keeping viewers on edge throughout the film?
(GC): I used certain elements repeatedly, like “Chekhov’s gun,” and John’s line, “Good things take time,” to build suspense.
(UM): As this is your debut short film, what challenges did you encounter during the production process, and how did your experience at USC influence your approach?
(GC): During production, I faced a lot of challenges. The most memorable one was when the main actor had to be replaced three times. Every time, I was informed at the last minute that the actor was unavailable. I urgently reached out to Jaydn, who ended up playing John, and we began filming as scheduled. Honestly, I wasn’t sure if it was a wise decision at the time, but thankfully, Jaydn was an amazing actor and brought John’s character to life. My experience at USC helped sharpen my writing skills and connected me with crew members who worked on the project.
(UM): Can you talk about the visual style of Untitled? How did you use cinematography, lighting, or editing to enhance the themes of deception and self-doubt?
(GC): Honestly, I didn’t achieve the visual design I initially wanted. I thought using minimal camera movement would create a restrained, clean style. However, it didn’t work as well as I hoped. Looking back, I think the film would’ve benefited from more scenes focused through John’s subjective perspective.
(UM): How does Untitled reflect or explore some of your personal experiences or views on ambition and the creative journey?
(GC): Untitled reflects some of my own experiences and thoughts about ambition and the creative journey. While making this film, I explored how people navigate self-doubt and admiration for others’ success. John embodies emotions familiar to many creators—the constant comparing, the desire to excel, and the persistent feeling of insecurity. In a highly competitive field, staying true and accepting oneself is both essential and challenging.
(UM): The film blurs the line between John’s reality and his imagination. What techniques did you use to keep the audience questioning what is real versus imagined?
(GC): In the scene where the dark figure appears in John’s living room, I wanted the audience to think it was real, as it was shot just like a regular scene. Later, when the basement room turns into his former garage, the audience would know it’s not real.
(UM): Given that jealousy and resentment are powerful themes in the film, how did you ensure that these emotions were portrayed in a way that resonates with viewers?
(GC): I worked closely with the actors to express these emotions through subtle details, like John’s micro-expressions, subconscious body language, and even the way his tone shifts when he’s around Rex. These details help the audience pick up on John’s internal conflict beyond just surface anger or jealousy.
(UM): Could you discuss your casting process for the film? What qualities did you look for in actors to bring the complex characters of John and Rex to life?
(GC): For John, I wanted an actor who could convey his feelings in a reserved way. He needed to show a calm exterior while hinting at inner jealousy, insecurity, and self-doubt through subtle facial expressions and glances. I wanted John to be more than a typical “villain”; he’s someone who gradually loses himself through emotional struggle. So I picked an actor who could convey a nuanced emotional arc that would make viewers empathize with his vulnerability, while also feeling uneasy about his transformation.
For Rex, I wanted someone who exudes natural confidence and success without seeming too distant or arrogant. He had to come across as genuinely caring about John, which in turn fuels John’s complex feelings of jealousy. I chose an actor who could balance confidence with warmth, making Rex’s success feel authentic rather than boastful.
(UM): Now that Untitled is complete, what are your future plans as a filmmaker? Are there specific themes or genres you want to explore further in your work?
(GC): I hope to start on a feature film soon. I actually have a completed script for a fantasy vampire story that explores loneliness and people’s indifference to each other. I’m planning to translate it and submit it to some major platforms. I don’t have specific themes or genres I must explore—if a story interests me, I’m eager to make it happen.
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