One More Time

Two friends decide to glimpse into each other's futures through a time-traveling tunnel. As they face unexpected revelations, their friendship is put to the test, leading to a decision that might change their destinies forever.

  • Jing Ma
    Director
  • Jing Ma
    Writer
  • Jing Ma
    Producer
  • Sarah Lavis
    Producer
  • Georgie Cufone
    Key Cast
    "Anya"
  • Jordan Walker
    Key Cast
    "Young Philip"
  • David Luke
    Key Cast
    "Old Philip"
  • Dane Howell
    Director of Photography
  • Matthew Coumpos
    Production Coordinator
  • Jaedon Cooper
    Sound Recordist
  • Alexander Lucarini
    Editor
  • Jing Ma
    Editor
  • AviShai Dayanim
    Composer
  • Christopher Liang
    Sound Mixer, Sound Designer
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Genres:
    Drama
  • Runtime:
    9 minutes 54 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    November 17, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    3,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    Australia
  • Country of Filming:
    Australia
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Jing Ma

Originally from Shanghai, China, Jing moved to the United States by herself at the age of sixteen in pursuit of artistic freedom.

Growing up, her grandfather would tell her war stories and fables before sleep, instilling in her a love for narrative storytelling. Visually, Jing draws inspiration from the cinematic style of American painter Edward Hopper and photographer Gregory Crewdson, while the simplicity and profound philosophy in Kurt Vonnegut's writing greatly influence her literary style.

Previously, Jing worked on creative productions at Sony Music, and has also been freelancing as a producer, storyboard artist and writer. Her first stage play, Wheel of Fortune, had its world premiere at the "Little Shakespeare Festival" at FRIGID New York in August 2023. Currently, she is working on a children's book, a visual novel game, and the third draft of a feature thriller screenplay.

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Director Statement

As a child, I often imagined that there was a secret chamber in my school or a portal in my neighborhood park that opened up to a different world. Wherever I went, I envisioned an invisible door that could teleport me to god knows where. Though I don't indulge in this fantasy as often as an adult, visiting the Manly Wormhole in Sydney, Australia, reignited my childhood wonder. Despite its name, the "Wormhole" has nothing to do with astrophysics or interstellar travel. Yet, I was enamored by the beautiful location and inspired by its inviting mystery.

Thus began the story of "One More Time," a short film that explores not so much time traveling but the nuances of friendship and the unrealized possibilities of past decisions. The narrative dwells on the "could've, would've, should've" moments and offers a zen perspective on mortality—a theme I ponder almost indulgently, having had a near-death experience as a teen. However, I designed the story to be open to myriad interpretations.

This project posed significant challenges due to our limited budget and the filming location's popularity with tourists. Additionally, its proximity to the unrelenting waves that hit the rocks presented obstacles for onsite sound recording. Nonetheless, the deep commitment of our dedicated cast and crew made these challenges surmountable.

At its heart, "One More Time" is about the present and the precious moments we share with each other, despite not knowing what the future may hold. It serves as a portal that invites the audience to imagine a future they can write themselves. I hope this film resonates with all those who treasure the present and look forward to what comes next.