Check out our exclusive interview with Ryan J. Sloan and Ariella Mastroianni from Gazer (Fantastic Fest)
One of the standout segments of Fantastic Fest 24 has always been the Burnt Ends selections. These films often showcase the next big filmmaker, star, DP, or effects designer, offering a true glimpse into indie filmmaking at its finest. Burnt Ends selections are known for their unpredictability, consistently delivering films unlike anything else at the festival.
This year’s selection includes the complex and engaging noir thriller "Gazer", directed by Ryan J. Sloan, starring Ariella Mastroianni, with cinematography by Matheus Bastos and a score composed by Steve Matthew Carter. Gazer tells the poignant story of a young mother suffering from dyschronometria, who, after losing everything, struggles to regain control of her life and mind in order to reunite with her daughter. Set against the backdrop of New Jersey, the film tackles deep themes surrounding single motherhood, living with challenging conditions, and the harsh realities of life.
As a Burnt Ends selection, "Gazer" also brings attention to its impressive technical achievements, including its beautiful Kodak film cinematography, shot over the course of multiple weekends. We had the pleasure of speaking with Ryan J. Sloan and Ariella Mastroianni about the creative process behind "Gazer"—from character inspiration to the rewarding chaos of making a film with friends on a shoestring budget.
Frankie (Ariella Mastroianni) spends her evenings walking the streets, looking into other people’s open windows, and summarizing her thoughts into a cassette tape recorder. This ritual grounds her as she deals with dyschronometria, a condition that impacts her ability to accurately estimate the amount of time that has passed. Struggling to keep her employment and determined to regain custody of her daughter, she accepts a mysterious job to move an unknown package, leading her into a web of murder and betrayal, unraveling her already difficult life.
Directed by: Ryan J. Sloan
Cast: Ariella Mastroianni, Marcia DeBonis, LeJon Woods, Emma Pearson, Annie Pisapia, Grant Schumacher, Jack Alberts
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