Feature Film

The Muse

Directed by Max Karpylev

AFIN 2023 Finalist

  • 2023
  • 49m
  • USA
  • Russian
  • Drama
First-time filmmaker

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Credits

Written by

Synopsis

Once successful novelist Mark is fighting for his sanity struggling to finish his book. Mark explores his difficult relations with his father and the sense of fear as an enemy of creativity. Will Mark sacrifice himself to finish his book on time?

Director's Statement

Max Karpylev, filmmaker portrait provided to AFIN.

The film is really about the complicated relations between a father and son. I explore how loss and fear might be the most potent enemy of creativity. The hero struggles between an illusionary yet happy world and a harsh reality.

What makes this one special

  • A first-time filmmaker

Director's Biography

Max Karpylev, filmmaker portrait provided to AFIN. Max Karpylev Director

Max Karpylev is a digital intermediate colorist, director, and producer. He was born in Siberia in 1986. Graduated from Siberian State University of Telecommunication & Informatics, majored in Radio & TV Engineering in 2009. Coming to Film Industry as a seasoned UI/UX designer, he utilizes his deep understanding of color psychology and merges Graphic Design and Film to achieve a one-of-a-kind look to his motion pictures. Max is an associate member of The Colorist Society International (CSI).

Placings

Recognised in these categories at AFIN 2023, as announced that season.

  • Best Feature Film Finalist
  • Best Cinematography Honorable Mention
  • Best Production Design Honorable Mention

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AFIN 2027

Entries for 2027 are open

On FilmFreeway since Sunday 1 November 2026. 22 awards, and every film can be up for several.

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