Poster for GET AWAY, directed by Michael Gabriele, AFIN 2023

Short Film AFIN 169

GET AWAY

Directed by Michael Gabriele

AFIN 2023 Winner · 4 awards

  • 2023
  • 15m
  • USA
  • English
  • M/MA
  • Thriller
  • Horror
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Stills

1 frame

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Credits

Synopsis

A group of friends spending the weekend at a remote vacation rental in the desert, play a mysterious VHS tape, and realize that there are too many strange and terrifying coincidences.

What makes this one special

From the Judges

From the Judges

A tautly built speculative horror that carries the flavour of classic genre filmmaking, this short moves with real confidence. The panel found the concept sharp and the storytelling genuinely fun, its structure holding tight while the pacing keeps the tension winding. A well cast, well executed piece that earns its place on screen.

Curated, anonymised highlights drawn from the judges' notes.

Director's Biography

Michael Gabriele, filmmaker portrait provided to AFIN. Michael Gabriele Director

Born in Montreal, Canada, Los Angeles based director Michael Gabriele discovered his passion for film and storytelling as a teenager. Michael made a name for himself within the vibrant advertising community in Chicago, where he spent nearly a decade working at some of the top creative agencies. He made the jump to full-time director after joining the reputable design and production studio Daily Planet in Chicago. Michael commands a striking visual style and creative voice that integrates video-based storytelling with a focus on humanity to express genuine emotions and sincere narratives. His work connects viewers to the story by employing authentic performances from actors and real-life people alike told via relatable stories and experiences and shot in a beautiful, cinematic visual style.

Trailer

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GET AWAY was Winner of Best Actress, Best Director, Best Live Action Short Film and Best Produced Screenplay and a Nominee for Best Actor at the AFIN International Film Festival 2023, a Top 100 Best Reviewed and IMDb-qualifying festival.

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  1. Open the AFIN International Film Festival event page on IMDb and choose the 2023 edition.
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