Private Project

Breaking Character

A struggling actor blurs the line between his performance and his own malicious thoughts as he commits to a role.

  • Joseph Ray Buzzella
    Director
  • Joseph Ray Buzzella
    Writer
  • Aria Mahmoud
    Producer
  • Curran Seth
    Key Cast
    "Theo Maddison"
  • Ian S. Peterson
    Key Cast
    "Jacob Hill"
  • Corey Landis
    Key Cast
    "Brian"
  • Gregory Cohen
    Key Cast
    "Hugo"
  • Andrea Guevara
    Key Cast
    "Stephanie"
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Runtime:
    19 minutes 19 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    June 27, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    20,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital (SONY FX6)
  • Aspect Ratio:
    1.66
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    Yes - University of California Santa Barbara (UCSB)
Director - Joseph Ray Buzzella
Director Statement

This film was a passion project of mine and truly a dream come true. As only one of four students selected by a jury of industry professionals for the UCSB 106 program, I was able to raise over $20,000 and lead a crew of 30 talented individuals over a 6 month production. This was my biggest and boldest project yet and I'm beyond proud of what we were able to achieve.

Beyond the gore and absurdity, this film tackles themes of the unrealistic beauty standards of today through a slightly satirical lens. As someone who has struggled with self-image and clinical depression throughout my life, this film is an extension of myself (minus the murder of course).

This is still a rough cut of the film although almost complete. There will be a few more passes of color, sound design, and subtle effects added to the final shot.