Malum

Is there evil and if so, how can it show itself. This film addresses this question in a new way. Evil is embodied here by shoes whose effect is also transferred to the wearer of the shoes. Events initially remain classified as purely fateful and unconnected, although the disaster - up to deaths - is already spreading. The disturbing reality is supported by a direct and clear cinematic realization.

  • Ralf Schellen
    Director
  • Stefan Kollakowski
    Director
  • Stefan Kollakowski
    Writer
  • Ralf Schellen
    Producer
  • Stefan Kollakowski
    Producer
  • Frank Stüdgens
    Key Cast
  • Annika Ziegltrum
    Key Cast
  • Rene Muffler
    Key Cast
  • Sabrina Caramanna
    Key Cast
  • Aleksandra Zamon
    Key Cast
  • Rainer Arntzen
    Key Cast
  • Ralf Schellen
    Camera
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Genres:
    Drama, Thriller
  • Runtime:
    10 minutes 16 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    November 30, 2021
  • Production Budget:
    500 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    Germany
  • Country of Filming:
    Germany
  • Language:
    German
  • Shooting Format:
    HD
  • Aspect Ratio:
    1.85:1
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Kurzfilmtage
    Oberhausen
    Germany
    May 7, 2022
    Worldwide
  • Open Window International Film Challenge

    India
    Award: Best Filmmaking Debut
Distribution Information
  • Ralf Schellen
    Sales Agent
    Country: Worldwide
    Rights: All Rights
Director Biography - Ralf Schellen, Stefan Kollakowski

Ralf (please find Stefan's biography as attachment): His many years of experience as a photographer and videographer in the beauty & fashion industry form the foundation for his entry into the world of "short film" with his debut short film "Malum".

Ralf Schellen already dealt with image processing during his studies to become a graduate engineer (1991). He completed his photographic education in 2009 at the renowned “New York Institute of Photography (NYIP)”, where he also received an award (“NYIP Award of Merit”). Since then he has been realizing commissioned photo and film works. He also creates sophisticated art works in cooperation with galleries.

In addition, Ralf Schellen also likes to pass on his knowledge. He had worked as a freelance editor for photo magazines, he is still active as a workshop leader and freelance trainer.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

Directors Statement (Stefan & Ralf):

Malum is a special film because it deals in a very unique and novel way with one of the basic themes of mankind: Evil.

The idea was not only inspiring to us, but to the entire crew. In Malum, shoes take on a significance that often goes unnoticed. When we think of shoes, we usually only think of practical use and perhaps aesthetic aspects or see them as a status symbol. But the fact that shoes have accompanied us since we became human beings and that they can stand for so much more is too often ignored. With shoes we can associate themes such as protection, power, powerlessness, oppression, liberation, joy, suffering and even good and evil. We are convinced that every human being can be touched intimately through shoes.

When it comes to the cinematic realization, it was clear to us from the beginning that a direct and clear approach is required. It supports the intended disturbing reality.

The whole team did a great job and that despite budget restrictions (no-budget production). Our joint enthusiasm made this special film possible.