CHEAT

An ordinary car trip reveals hidden truths.

After five years of dating, secrets bubble to the surface after a betrayal reveals itself in Nicola and Sebastian's relationship.

  • Dmitri Cherkasski
    Director/DOP
  • Gabby Angelone
    Key Cast
    "Nicola"
  • Rhys Tucker
    Key Cast
    "Sebastian"
  • Esther Kipnis
    1st AC
  • Utkarsh Anand
    Sound Mixer
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Runtime:
    5 minutes 2 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    May 15, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    200 AUD
  • Country of Origin:
    Australia
  • Country of Filming:
    Australia
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital, Full Frame
  • Aspect Ratio:
    2:1
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Filmonik Kabaret 2023 Screenings
    Melbourne, Victoria
    Australia
    May 15, 2023
    Melbourne Premiere
    Official Selection
Director Biography

I've always loved movies! Ever since I first used my dad’s camcorder as a curious child, I was hooked and fascinated by the moving image. I've continued to explore my passion for film through working on many short film projects, ranging from zero budgets, to self funded fantasy thrillers. I've also experienced life behind the scenes and worked on the production side of a couple of TV shows. My aim is to keep learning and improving my filmmaking skills and to make my next work better than my last!

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Director Statement

In CHEAT I wanted to tell a compelling story about the breakdown of trust in a relationship. I decided to have the camera in a fixed position, to maximise tension and create the claustrophobic setting the story required. Having the camera mounted to a car kept audiences trapped in the drama. You are stuck with them. We do not move, we do not cut, we are along for the ride.

As the Director my job was to point out key story beats, allowing the actors the freedom to explore possibilities within these constrains. Through improvisation, the actors were able to freely deliver authentic dialogue whilst fulfilling the story arc provided.