Infinity +1 Film Spotlight

Today’s film spotlight focuses on the short film Infinity +1 directed by Flo Demmer.

What is the title of your film and what inspired said title?

The Film´s title is “Unendlich+1” or “infinity+1” for the international market. When I was younger, probably around 5 or 6 years old, I asked my dad what would happen if you were to add 1 to infinity. And that kind of became a metaphor for the film. 

It describes the bridge between life and death and what happens with us after we descend from earth. In the case of Sam, our protagonist, it’s about if he is still able to talk to his father after he died or if it’s just a waste of time. A fight against the loneliness after you lost a loved one and the wish that this person remains somewhere for you to stay in contact with.

Tell us a little bit about the story and origins of your film.

The Film is about a young mother who must provide for her son Sam after the death of her husband, while her own pain and the crippling fear of not being able to raise a child alone is overwhelming her. 

I wanted to shine a light on mothers and families and their struggle to be a unit in difficult times. I have seen many families crumble under the persistent manner of “We don´t talk about that”. It´s a constant fear of vulnerability. Of course, you are somewhat limited with a medium like a short film to project anything you want to say, so the film doesn´t go into too much detail. However, I tried to focus on the sole point of what you will do when you must provide for your child and care for yourself and your own pain at the same time. I’m my opinion, the truth is that many single parents feel like they don´t have the time to deal with pain, depression or the feeling of failure to be the parent they strive to be. I wanted to show that one way to be a good parent is to acknowledge just that: The fact that you can´t do everything perfectly and all at once.

Any films or filmmakers that inspired this film?

The thing is, that the film is based on a story I´ve written a few years ago. But the film is inspired by family-drama movies e.g. “What’s eating gilbert grape”. That movie was big for me. 

What is the goal of the film for you?

The goal for the movie is to tell the story of Sam and to show the devastating struggle of single parents that create a dynamic of ‘hiding your own pain is the way to deal with pain’.

What has the journey been like getting the film into production?

I was pretty lucky to be honest. I received a scholarship, which gave me the budget to tell the story. Also, I worked with amazing people, so the process of the film was driven by then. Big shout out to my awesome team! We were very transparent, direct and honest in our process and therefore could talk about what works and what wouldn´t. It was a very nice experience. 

One thing you learned from this project?

Definitely how much preparation matters!

How can folks find you and your film online?

Currently, the film is running the festival circle of approximately 2 years, and I think after that time, I will upload it to Youtube.

Any last pieces of advice for fellow filmmakers?

I don´t know if I have any advice, because I don´t think I am in the position to lecture anybody. But if I could give advice, it would be: Trust your gut feeling. 

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