Private Project

Captive

A mysterious kidnapper returns to his garage where he keeps his victim. In this grim encounter, words play a decisive role and the truth is hidden behind a mask. A movie that will make you think about the subtle facets of human psychology.

  • Alexander Merdian
    Director
  • Alexander Merdian
    Writer
  • Alexander Merdian
    Producer
  • Pavel Litvinenko
    Key Cast
  • Roman Prozorkin
    Key Cast
  • Alexander Merdian
    Director of Photography
  • Alexander Merdian
    Editor
  • Ekaterina Lapteva
    Co-Producer
  • Alexander Merdian
    Sound Director
  • Yaroslav Vyalshin
    Camera Operators
  • Ivan Urvantsev
    Camera Operators
  • Semyon Kutasov
    Boom Operator
  • Ksenia Kisunina
    Assistant Director
  • Ksenia Klyukina
    SFX Make Up
  • Anton Paygetov
    Drone Pilot
  • Ivan Stan
    Painting Artist
  • Ksenia Kisunina
    Backstage Photo & Video
  • Ekaterina Lapteva
    Backstage Photo & Video
  • Elisabetta Schreiner
    Poster Designer
  • Tichon Hartung
    Translation
  • Ksenia Malkova
    Translation
  • Anastasia Artyushova
    Translation
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Runtime:
    9 minutes
  • Completion Date:
    September 10, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    150 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    Germany
  • Country of Filming:
    Russian Federation
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    2.35:1
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Alexander Merdian

Alexander Merdian, a 26-year-old independent director, producer and scriptwriter, born, raised, and currently living in Germany, has a life journey that extends far beyond. Having lived and studied in various countries including Kyrgyzstan, Russia, and Ukraine, he have gained priceless insights into the lives of people facing challenging circumstances, poverty, and hardship in underprivileged communities.

His academic background includes a bachelor's degree in Financial Management and Theology, which, at first glance, may not seem directly related to the film industry. However, this diverse knowledge equips him with valuable organizational and production skills that are instrumental in bringing his creative visions to life. Furthermore, his theological and historical insights add a distinctive layer to his storytelling.

Passionate about visual storytelling, Alexander's cinematic journey began 8 years ago while he was pursuing his university studies. What started as a personal hobby quickly evolved into a dedicated vocation. Notably, all his films were crafted on a low budget, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the craft. He coordinated every aspect of filmmaking himself and enlisted the help of friends who, although not professional crew members or actors, enthusiastically collaborated to bring his vision to life.

His primary focus in filmmaking is crafting thought-provoking, dramatic narratives with a strong social message. Alexander strives to prompt audiences to contemplate both personal and societal challenges, sparking meaningful conversations and reflections on these pressing issues.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

In Captive, a film I both wrote and directed, I aim to shed light on the pressing issue of mental health, particularly the peril of excessive self-criticism. We are all familiar with self-doubt and self-reflection, but what often remains concealed is the boundary at which self-criticism transforms into a self-destructive force. This transformation can be especially hazardous, leading to clinical depression, self-harm, and even suicide attempts.

Drawing inspiration from my own experiences and those of my peers who are on a quest to find their life's path, I've created a character who embodies the profound complexity of self-struggle.

Before the closing credits of the film, we display the logo of the 'World Federation for Mental Health' and the website www.wfmh.global. This is to encourage viewers to seek further information on mental health and learn how to assist those in need, such as recognizing signs of distress in friends or family members.

Through 'Captive,' I aspire to not only engage the audience with a compelling story but also to provoke vital discussions around the topic of mental well-being. It is my hope that this film can contribute to the growing awareness of mental health issues, especially among young people, and provide support and resources for those in need.