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RITE OF PASSAGE

Set against the backdrop of a quintessential, fading American suburb, Rite of Passage is a surreal meditation on time, transformation, and the inescapable arc of existence. Beginning with a whimsical gathering of bunny rabbits traversing quiet streets, the film gradually introduces human figures—first a child on a bike, then adolescents, young men, and finally the elderly—each phase replacing the last in an abstract representation of life’s stages.

As a stretched and impossibly long hearse glides into view, it starkly reminds us of mortality’s universal reach. The suburban landscape then transforms into a wild expanse as untamed horses thunder through empty streets, a striking juxtaposition of freedom and loss. In the film’s climactic moments, a suburban home metamorphoses into a rocket ship and launches into the cosmos, leaving the neighborhood devoid of human presence. In its place, ants scuttle across deserted roads, and rabbits gather in ritualistic circles around a mysterious pit that has opened in the pavement—a portal, perhaps, to another realm.

Rite of Passage weaves dreamlike imagery with poignant symbolism to reflect on the fleeting nature of human life, the inevitability of death, and the eternal persistence of nature. This AI-crafted short invites audiences to ponder the mysteries of existence and the unknown journeys that lie beyond.

  • Anthony Sylvester
    Director
  • Floyd Neon
    Writer
  • Anthony Sylvester
    Producer
  • Project Type:
    Experimental, Music Video, Other
  • Genres:
    Drama, Sci Fi
  • Runtime:
    4 minutes 3 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    October 28, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    0 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Shooting Format:
    AI
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:10
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Anthony Sylvester

Anthony Sylvester is an award-winning filmmaker celebrated for his viral music videos and visually captivating short films. His work includes the critically acclaimed "SUBTUNES," which won the Oscar-Qualifying Raindance Film Festival.

Beginning his journey in a modest Harlem basement in 2009, Anthony's talent and vision quickly propelled him onto the global stage. He has since directed and edited major music videos and branded content across the globe. His unique approach to filmmaking—marked by curiosity and exploration—embraces the Renaissance style, making him a versatile director, cinematographer, editor, and VFX artist.

Currently based in Los Angeles, Anthony remains a dynamic force in the film industry. He has directed commercials for renowned brands like Converse, edited high-profile broadcast television shows for Vice and Discovery, and collaborated with top hip-hop and electronic music artists on visually stunning music videos.

Beyond commercial success, Anthony is passionate about video art as a form of expression. His recent partnership with Sony showcased his work on 20 large public monitors in downtown Tokyo, highlighting his innovative approach and creative vision.

With a commitment to mentoring upcoming filmmakers worldwide and curating film and art festivals in cities like New York, Los Angeles, Montreal, and Budapest, Anthony Sylvester continues to push the boundaries of contemporary filmmaking.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

I discovered filmmaking through the underground skate and BMX community in suburban Philadelphia during the early 2000s. As an introvert, I spent countless hours capturing the mundane suburban landscapes—highways and parking lots—romanticizing what they might have been before being covered in cement, concrete, and wooden structures.

I was mesmerized by the power to capture and manipulate imagery into symbolism and meaning. At 18, I moved to New York City, determined to immerse myself in the demanding journey of becoming a filmmaker. I focused on telling my personal story, collaborating with others, and constantly exploring the craft that fuels my existence.

I quickly found success as a teenager editing content for Warner Music Group, and soon after, I began directing music videos. Despite lean budgets, the success of these projects hinged on creativity and craftsmanship.

My approach has always been consistent—create compelling stories with minimal environmental impact. I aim to romanticize the unromantic, embrace the ugliness, and cherish the struggle. Acknowledging the profound harm humanity has inflicted on our extraordinarily beautiful planet, I have recently focused on themes of climate change, human overdevelopment, and the resurgence of nature in my work. Artificial Intelligence has recently entered my toolkit, as an ever-increasing way to push storytelling in these fields of interest and concern.

I aspire for audiences to leave my films feeling inspired and optimistic about the future we must build for coming generations. Amid the pervasive negativity and despair in the world, I offer a brief escape—using color, music, sound, and atmosphere to inspire greatness and a deep love for all the beautiful life around us.