Directed by
Cal M. Butnaru
Country of Origin
United Kingdom
Runtime
4:30
Category
A boy is trapped in a relentless cycle of nightmares, tormented by an incomprehensible force that holds him captive in a surreal mental world, with no hope of escape.
Director Biography – Cal M. Butnaru
Cal M. Butnaru is a Romanian-born, British filmmaker based in London, who is rapidly making a name for himself in the world of short-form horror cinema. With a deep-rooted passion for directing that began in childhood, Cal was first captivated by the craft after watching behind-the-scenes footage of legendary directors like Christopher Nolan and Steven Spielberg. The collaborative spirit and creative synergy on set drew him in, fostering a lifelong dedication to filmmaking.
His passion for cinema was further ignited by exposure to international films such as Park Chan-wook’s Oldboy (2003), Akira Kurosawa’s Ran (1985), and Agnès Varda’s Cléo from 5 to 7 (1962). These films expanded his cinematic horizons and solidified his desire to tell stories through the lens of a director.
In pursuit of his dream, Cal studied Film Studies at Queen Mary University of London, where he graduated with a BA in 2022. The program, known for its excellent blend of theory and practical modules, provided him with a solid foundation in the technical intricacies of filmmaking. During his time at university, Cal honed his skills by taking on paid work in advertising and corporate videos, as well as serving as a part-time videographer for the Student’s Union. In this role, he produced over 20 self-shot and edited videos, promoting various societies and events.
After graduation, Cal immersed himself in the art and craft of filmmaking, exploring every aspect of the process—from directing and producing to discovering his own unique voice. His journey led him to focus on the horror genre, where he identified a gap for character-driven, psychologically unsettling narratives that linger long after the credits roll.