Short film ‘After the Flood’ makes a splash at BIFF
A short film created by AIE students and trainers has been selected for screening at this year’s Brisbane International Film Festival (BIFF) which is being held next week. After the Flood tells a post-apocalyptic story and was created entirely within the Adelaide campuses’ Virtual Production studio.
After the Flood emerged from a need to explore the capabilities of AIE's Virtual Production Studio. The studio consists of 12 metre wide x 2.5 metre high wall of LED screens displaying visuals generated by a high-end computer running game engine software combined with motion trackers that follow the path of the camera in the studio. Unreal Engine 5 was the game engine software that was used to render real-time 3D environments to create the stunning visuals that brought the story to life in a way that would be challenging to achieve in a traditional filming setting.
Director Ashlee Page, a seasoned educator and filmmaker with over 20 years of experience, recognised the opportunity to use this cutting-edge technology in a practical context. Driven by the ethos of “learning by doing” Ashlee proposed a collaborative project where students and trainers from film, game art and visual effects would showcase their skills and creativity.
After the Flood takes place in a post-apocalyptic world, where hope seems like a distant memory. The short film centres on a skilled survivor, played by Genevieve Mooy, who navigates her existence atop a lonely skyscraper haunted by the memory of her lost lover. When a desperate thief finds himself at her mercy, the protagonist is faced with a pivotal decision. Should she rekindle her lost compassion or remain in her isolated state?
Co-written by Nicky Thanou, who also served as the Director of Photography, the story was carefully crafted to evoke emotions and provoke thought. Producer Sandra Cook emphasised the importance of an uplifting ending, ensuring that even in a flooded, desolate world, a glimmer of hope would shine through.
The collaboration between trainers and students was at the heart of this project. AIE’s filmmaking programs offer many opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in various aspects of filmmaking—from production to cinematography. The film stands as a reflection of the dedication, teamwork and passion that the creative community at AIE brings to the art of visual storytelling.
With its selection for BIFF, After the Flood is poised to reach a wider audience, showcasing the talent of AIE trainers and emerging student filmmakers. The film not only celebrates the advancements in filmmaking technology but also serves as an inspiring reminder of what can be achieved when creativity, collaboration, and education intersect.
