Conceptualized during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, this short film was inspired by producer and composer Peter Rotter’s experience working remotely with his employees and colleagues during the worldwide quarantine period, and his efforts to find and foster joy through his work despite the lack of in-person physical presence and connection.
The concept of the main character, Austin Karimloo, is based on Peter’s remote interactions with one of his employees. During quarantine, Peter was working remotely from Hawaii, and his phone system would often ring and announce an incoming call from this employee. His grandson was staying with him in Hawaii for two months during this time, and after returning to Los Angeles he would often remark that he missed hearing the answering machine announce that Peter’s employee was calling. This short film functions as a sort of time capsule from Peter to his grandson and employee, featuring easter eggs (like their pets appearing on a surfboard) and tributes to their time together.
In the film, when Austin Karimloo calls, he brings a childlike and joyful spirit to everyone he encounters, and lifts them out of their boredom and corporate drudgery. He encourages collective celebration and delivers a message of hope and happiness, even when the world seems too heavy to have fun. Putting this project together was challenging because everyone working on it was doing so remotely, but its purpose was to encapsulate a sense of wonder and an anticipation of good things to come through collective creativity.
Directed by Patricia Luna (USA)