STARRY EYED
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STARRY EYED
Electronic Press Kit
A short film that illuminates the journey of self-worth and identitytold through a visually poetic lens and anchored in emotional truth.
Synopsis & Vision
A young woman escapes into her imagination to cope with feeling unseen, in a visually poetic short film about identity, resilience, and the quiet power of self-worth.
The Protagonist
Stella stands at a personal and professional crossroads, questioning her path.
The Journey
A touching exploration through conflicting ideas of self-worth.
Visual Language
Starlight metaphors represent inner potential waiting to be realized.
Format
8 minutes of contemplative pacing shot entirely on Canon R5.
Thematic Exploration
Self-Love
A journey rather than destination.
Inner Dialogue
Externalized through visual metaphors.
Isolation & Connection
Dual experiences of human existence.
Transformation
Acceptance of personal truth.
Artistic Direction
Lighting
Vivid, saturated hues—intense purples, reds, and blues—create a powerful emotional palette, capturing psychological tension, vulnerability, and emotional shifts within the characters.
Cinematography & Composition
Dynamic close-ups and confined framing convey intimacy and isolation, reinforcing the characters' internal struggles. Soft focus, double exposures, and blurred effects symbolize disorientation and memory.
Symbolic Imagery
Visual metaphors—hands pressed against walls, blurred reflections, intersecting lights—represent internal conflicts, fragmented identities, and emotional boundaries.
Mood & Tone
The film crafts an immersive, introspective atmosphere through sophisticated visuals, evoking profound emotional introspection and psychological complexity.
In The Leading Role
As Stella
Olivia Bortolazzo ignites the screen as Stella in Starry Eyed, delivering a powerhouse performance that grabs you from the first frame and doesn’t let go. As Stella, Olivia masterfully navigates a whirlwind of emotion, portraying a woman caught between doubt and self-discovery with electrifying intensity and raw vulnerability. Her captivating presence transforms Starry Eyed into an unforgettable journey of resilience and revelation.
With every scene, Olivia commands attention! Her portrayal of Stella is deeply compelling, drawing audiences into Stella’s thrilling internal battle. This role marks a stunning breakthrough, showcasing Olivia’s extraordinary ability to breathe life into complex characters with a magnetic mix of strength and fragility.
Olivia Bortolazzo is not just an actress, she’s a force of nature, and her performance in Starry Eyed confirms her rising star status in the world of cinematic storytelling.
Key Creatives
The creative team behind Starry Eyed exemplifies versatility and collaborative spirit, with each member seamlessly taking on multiple artistic roles from casting to editing to bring the film to life. Carlo Mollo served as Producer, Writer, and Director, crafting the narrative and overseeing its dynamic execution. Jaze Bordeaux contributed as Producer, merging strategic oversight with a distinct visual storytelling approach. Ilham Aragrag took on the roles of Producer and Story Editor, refining the narrative arc and ensuring thematic cohesion throughout production. Jason Romolo combined his skills as Producer and Director of Photography, masterfully shaping the film's compelling visual identity. Together, their multifaceted contributions highlight the depth of their collective creativity and dedication to cinematic storytelling.
Produced by
Produced by
Produced by
Produced by
Behind-the-Scenes
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Film Students
Starry Eyed was produced in collaboration with the Toronto Academy of Film and Television, providing hands-on experience and mentorship to emerging talent. The production engaged 14 student cast members and 3 student assistants supporting camera and directing departments—reflecting the film’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of filmmakers.
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Shooting Days
Starry Eyed was filmed over five shooting days between 2023 and 2024 in Toronto, Canada. Key locations included Kensington Studios and Huddle ShareSpace—each selected for their versatility and atmosphere, allowing the production to craft both grounded and imaginative settings within a controlled environment that supported the film’s visual and emotional tone.
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Crew Members
With a core team of just eight, Starry Eyed embraced the collaborative spirit of indie filmmaking. Crew members took on multiple roles across production and post, from cinematography to editing—ensuring a unified vision through every stage.
Festivals and Awards
Starry Eyed has begun its festival run with early recognition, highlighted by Olivia Bortolazzo's Best Actress Award win at the Red Movie Awards—a performance celebrated for its emotional precision and restraint. The film has also earned official selections at multiple international festivals, underscoring its impact with juries drawn to intimate, performance-driven psychological drama. These accolades mark the opening chapter of the film’s momentum on the global circuit.
What Audiences Are Saying
"Yo, Starry Eyed is trippy AF! The visuals are like a dream come to life."
Hyped viewer
"Starry Eyed is pure artsy magic. I was totally lost in the mood and atmosphere."
Insta Follower
"Starry Eyed hit me right in the feels. This film is a vibe, for real."
Adience member
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