Private Project

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Newly divorced Jared is forced into the Maroon Motel for the night, but the room is already occupied.

  • Justin Stearns
    Director
  • Justin Stearns
    Writer
  • Justin Stearns
    Producer
  • Justin Stearns
    Key Cast
    "Jared"
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Runtime:
    7 minutes 15 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    June 12, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    2,500 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Magic of Horror Film Festival
    Wakefield, VA
    United States
    October 5, 2024
    World Premiere
    Official Selection
  • We Regret to Inform You Film Festival
    Austin, TX
    United States
    October 26, 2024
    Texas Premiere
    Official Selection
  • Phobia Film Festival
    Moberly, MO
    United States
    October 26, 2024
    Missouri Premiere
    Official Selection
  • Magic of Horror Film Festival Finalist
    Wakefield, VA
    United States
    October 5, 2024
    Finalist: Best Actor- Justin Stearns
  • Magic of Horror Film Festival Finalist
    Wakefield, VA
    United States
    October 5, 2024
    Finalist: Best Micro Budget Short
  • Magic of Horror Film Festival Finalist
    Wakefield, VA
    United States
    October 5, 2024
    Finalist: Best Music Score
Director Biography - Justin Stearns

Justin Stearns, an acclaimed and award-winning filmmaker from Atlanta, has been a professional force in the film industry since 2010. However, his passion for filmmaking ignited much earlier, at the tender age of 7, when he got his first video camera. Justin began by staging and producing his own content, a precursor to his eventual career. His aspiration to become a legitimate filmmaker took root at 19, leading him to pursue formal education in media and cinematography.

Justin attended Gainesville State College, earning an A.A. in Media Studies, and later graduated from Full Sail University with a Bachelor's Degree of Science in Digital Cinematography. This solid educational foundation propelled him into a successful career where he has produced over 70 diverse projects. His portfolio includes short films, music videos, commercials, industrials, and fashion films.

Justin Stearns' works have been showcased in more than 12 countries, earning him 20 award nominations and 9 wins. His impressive client list features major brands like Mercedes-Benz, Coca-Cola, Durex, Campbell's Soup, and Universal Studios Resorts. With a dynamic career spanning over a decade, Justin continues to make significant contributions to the film industry, captivating audiences worldwide with his creative vision and storytelling prowess.

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Director Statement

Directing this short film has been a profoundly personal journey for me. Having worked in the film industry for over a decade, I’ve always been drawn to stories that delve into the human psyche, particularly around themes of isolation and the emotional fallout of breakups. This project allowed me to explore these themes in a way that feels deeply resonant, especially in the wake of the unprecedented global circumstances we’ve all faced recently.

The hiatus due to COVID-19 was an unexpected and challenging period for everyone. For our production company, it meant putting a halt to new projects since 2020, which felt like an eternity in such a fast-paced industry. Returning to the set for this film marked a significant moment for us—an opportunity to reconnect with the art of storytelling and to process the collective and individual experiences of isolation during the pandemic.

This short film is more than just a story; it’s a reflection of the emotional landscapes we’ve navigated in recent years. I hope it resonates with audiences and provides a space for reflection and connection. Thank you for joining us on this journey.