SYZYGY

Eva has to impress the judges at a dance school, but her teacher, Dania, insists she stick to their usual routine. Eva is now caught between the safety of comfort and the desire to express her own creativity.

  • Maria Nicolette Valencia Tolentino
    Director
  • Sander Saltnes
    Producer
  • Maria Nicolette Valencia Tolentino
    Writer
  • Caleb Per Harman
    Writer
  • Stella Johanne Revheim
    Key Cast
    "Eva"
  • Olga Kychanova
    Key Cast
    "Dania"
  • Pragin Rajagopal
    Key Cast
    "Max"
  • Laurits Rohde Aass
    Camera Operator
  • Jonathan Kleven
    Assistant Camera
  • Joakim Sjølien Aune
    Editor
  • Leander Enes
    Sound
  • Julian Kristiansen Rundhaug
    Assistant Director
  • Project Title (Original Language):
    SYZYGY
  • Project Type:
    Short, Student
  • Genres:
    Drama, Dance
  • Runtime:
    11 minutes 13 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    August 17, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    5,000 NOK
  • Country of Origin:
    Norway
  • Country of Filming:
    Norway
  • Language:
    Norwegian
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    1:85:1
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    Yes - Danvik Folkehøgskole
Director Biography - Maria Nicolette Valencia Tolentino

Maria Nicolette Tolentino is an emerging filmmaker from the Philippines, now residing in Norway since 2018.

Her journey into filmmaking began when she transferred to Norway and took notice that there are still so many stories yet to be told. Her passion for filmmaking took root during her time at Danvik Folkhøgskole, where she got the time and opportunity to actually write and work with short films.

Syzygy marks her first venture into filmmaking, in which she wants to explore the themes of dance and music. Her upcoming works will be drawing inspiration from- and reflecting on her diverse cultural background and experiences.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

They say that people need other people. That's true, but not always.

It is very easy for us humans to lock our feelings inside. To not want to admit that we have problems. To want to distract ourselves by using other people for support and guidance. It is not always healthy, because we can lose ourselves and our identities by leaving feelings to the care of others.

Syzygy is a reminder to us that we do not necessarily need other people to get through life. We have to try to be independent from time to time. It's nice to be social and be inspired, but you shouldn't let other people take over your thoughts.