New Light Short Film

Experimental Dance Film

Story Concept

New Light is an experimental short film that explores the exaggerated world a character feels trapped in. It’s a reflection of how our minds can cause us to feel confined within our own thoughts, leading to stress that makes our surroundings seem amplified and claustrophobic. This spiral of anxiety forces us to question why we can’t break free. The film presents glimmers of hope as the character clings to the unrealistic belief that new light will alleviate their pain and stress. However, even with this newfound light, they remain trapped in a unique, mind-controlled world, unable to express themselves. This represents the feeling of being a prisoner in your own mind, regardless of the doors you open or the light you let in. You feel unsupported, lost, misperceived, and continue to hope for relief in a glimmer of new light.

Why We Created This Story

We created this story because it reflects something deeply personal to us. It goes beyond being just a filmmaking concept, it’s an honest expression of the internal battles that can quietly shape how we think and live. The idea that happiness is something we’ll only reach once we achieve certain goals can become its own kind of mental trap, and it’s something we’ve both experienced firsthand. This film is our way of exploring that mindset and giving form to something that’s often hard to articulate. Mental health is still difficult to talk about openly, and through this story, we want to create space for that conversation. More than anything, it’s a reminder of the importance of taking care of yourself mentally, and an invitation for others to reflect on their own experiences.

Our Character

Rue has every reason to be happy, but yet she lies in her apartment, unmotivated and disheartened. She looks out her window, but what she sees causes her to feel more depressed. She steps away quietly, wanting and fixating on the things that she wishes she had. This casts her to feel lonely and trapped within her apartment and unmotivated to chase and express her dreams.