The low budget, independent 90-minute feature "Relapse", filmed completely on the Big Island, is a character driven dramatic thriller about methamphetamine addiction and related problems.
The producers are looking for distributors and hope to have "Relapse" in theaters early next year, including Hawaii Island.
"Relapse" is the story of an ex-ice addict, Markus and his wife Dalia. After a recent relocation, the couple begins to discover that their new house has a sinister past, which could destroy their future. As the danger becomes more palpable, both Markus and his wife must face past addictions and betrayals, and regain the trust necessary to save not only their marriage but their very lives.
"'Relapse' aims to raise awareness about the addictive dangers of crystal meth," said director Guillermo F. Navarro.
The University of the Nations film program, 24 Frames of Light, is an independent initiative showcasing new young writers, filmmakers, directors, actors, and cinematographers. 24 Frames is geared to filmmakers who strive to depict truth and provoke thought rather than just being entertainment.
"Relapse" has won awards at WorldFest Houston, Honolulu International Film Festival, Big Island Film Festival, and the Hoboken Film Festival.
Director Navarro says his inspiration for "Relapse" came from a magazine article about the crystal meth problem and its clandestine production.
"I had never heard until I read the article... that the toxicity of these chemicals remains in a house long after meth production ceases," he says. "Every month, 'hundreds' of properties are sold in the United States alone, and the proud new owners walk into their toxic habitat without ever suspecting it.
"I immediately saw the possibility for a thriller," he said.
"What if someone unknowingly moved into a toxic house and became tormented, haunted by its secrets?
"It's a bit of a mind-game, and without realizing it you become part of the story by becoming the judge of their arguments."
The visual treatment of the film was designed to be claustrophobic and voyeuristic, the director says. Not many wide shots are used, but just enough establishing shots to define the space where the action takes place, he said.
Camera movements are limited to subtle, non-disruptive hand-held motion.
Cast members include Jeremy Davis as Markus;
Kate Tomlinson (Dalia); Taymour Ghazi (George); Allan Kolman (Dr.Hassleback); notable Hawaii actor Pomaika'i Brown (Police Officer Hanohano;) and another Big Islander, Joe McGinn (Kalani).
Argentinean director/producer/writer Navarro has some 20 years filmmaking experience that includes documentaries, commercials and music videos. He founded "24 Frames of Light" and is director of the University of the Nations' film program.
Crew include Oahu native David Carstens (Director of Photography); David McFadzean (Executive Producer); Hiroko Kobayashi (Production Design); Cherish Rodriguez (Hair Stylist); Dianne G. Becker (Unit Production Manager); Diego Rodriguez (Special Effects); and casting by Anna Fishburn, Joy Landry, and Gail Ramsey.
For more information about "Relapse", call (808) 326-4469 or e-mail at relapsepress@gmail.com.
Red wrote on Nov 18, 2009 12:29 PM: