Private Project

Connected

Connected follows the life of a young man growing up in a neighborhood that is controlled by the Mafia. Despite the teachings of his family and church, he is tempted by the extravagant and seemingly care-free lifestyle of his "friends". The lure of mystery, power and intrigue are to powerful for him to resist and he soon finds himself caught up in a web of danger, contradiction and betrayal. After suffering personal and family sacrifice he must face the most difficult challenge of his life, that is, how to live free of the tenacious life-long grip of the mob. Add to this the love of a young woman he is trying to protect and how he must choose between his love for her and his obligations to the mob.

  • Michael Eric
    Director
  • Michael Eric
    Writer
  • David V. Allen
    Writer
  • Rome Cerverizzo
    Writer
  • Michael Eric
    Producer
  • Phil Londrico
    Producer
  • Mike Davis
    Key Cast
    "Harv"
  • Billy Galewood
    Key Cast
    "Genaro"
    Tell Me I Love You, Jason Mraz's Greatest Hits
  • Shelley Marks
    Key Cast
    "Antonia"
    Madness, Bet Your Life, Timequest
  • Anthony Garcia
    Key Cast
    "Vinny"
    The Sunset Meet, Unjust - Road to New Precedents
  • Mark Rabant
    Key Cast
    "Two-Step"
    The Path of the Wind,
  • Michael Cipiti
    Key Cast
    "Nicky"
    Gotti, Draft Day, Chicago Overcoat,
  • Project Type:
    Feature
  • Genres:
    Drama, Crime, Mafia
  • Runtime:
    1 hour 50 minutes
  • Completion Date:
    May 30, 2021
  • 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:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Standalone Film Festival
    Hollywood, CA
    United States
    August 12, 2021
    WINNER Best Feature Film
Director Biography - Michael Eric

Ever since Michael picked up his father’s 8 mm camera at the age of 10 years old, he knew he wanted to be a filmmaker! Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio Michael has always been fascinated by the cinema and the art of storytelling.

Michael studied film at USC and enjoys every aspect of filmmaking from writing and directing to cinematography and editing. Michael is a visual artist by nature and his artistic talents have enabled him to work as a storyboard artist as well as being involved with the art department and set design.

Tenacity, perseverance, creative thinking and determination is what enabled Michael to complete his feature film “Connected.” After spending years in the making, Michael overcame various production obstacles and delays to finally realize his vision.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

I have always been a big fan of the mafia genre but I wanted to make a film that also portrayed a different side of the lifestyle. Mobsters are often glamorized but there is a stark reality that casts a shadow of loneliness and regret over their lives. I am intrigued by stories portraying the duality of man and observing the inner struggle that people experience between right and wrong. “Connected” examines a young man who is conflicted between the way he was raised by his family and the outside influences of his friends and the mafia environment he is exposed to. Throughout the story he meets different “mentors”, all who try in their own way, to steer him down the correct path.

I wanted the film to show the dichotomy of the two main characters and the struggles they endure as a result of their decisions. The main characters come from different backgrounds but are conflicted in similar ways and both have serious choices to make that will affect their lives and the people they love.

“Connected” takes place in 1999 and I wanted the look of the film to feel authentic and reinforce the underlying psychological theme of good versus evil. I am a big fan of film noir and was inspired by films such as “Mean Streets” and “To Live and Die in LA” to try and capture the gritty realism of the streets. “Connected” is more than just a mob film, it is a character study that has some truly touching moments that strike a variety of emotional notes.