Experiencing Interruptions?

Sludge

A rambunctious young man embarks on a nightmarish journey after a prank on his best friend goes horribly wrong.

  • Richard Imburgio
    Director
  • Richard Imburgio
    Writer
  • Owen Russell
    Producer
  • Jaden Lanfank
    Producer
  • Owen Russell
    Key Cast
    "Tony"
  • Derek Myers
    Key Cast
    "Alex"
  • Hallie Friedman
    Key Cast
    "Jennifer"
  • Steve Alleva
    Key Cast
    "The Cleaner"
  • Kwang Min Lee
    Key Cast
    "The Tourist"
  • Kwang Min Lee
    Assistant Director
  • Trisha Pickelhaupt
    Assistant Director
  • Maggie Brill
    Director of Photography
  • Jose Antonio Duran
    1st Assistant Camera
  • Austin Sabado
    1st Assistant Camera
  • November Nolan
    2nd Assistant Camera
  • Kevin Herrera
    Gaffer
  • Pablo Freese-Fernández
    Gaffer
  • Victor Posa
    Key Grip/Driver
  • Julia Leedy
    Make-Up
  • Eduardo Calero
    Sound Mixer/Boom Op
  • Coby Shapiro
    Sound Mixer/Boom Op
  • Chayale Akselrod
    Production Designer
  • Izzy Ronson
    On-Set Production Designer
  • Nick Stapp
    Set Dresser
  • Daniela Garcia
    Set Dresser
  • Alex Zautashvili
    Production Assistant
  • Eduardo Claero
    Post Sound Mixer
  • Max Aurnhammer
    VFX Artist
  • Izzy Aghahowa
    Poster Artist
  • Leon Alper
    Special Thanks
  • Chayale Akselrod
    Special Thanks
  • Bella Bahl
    Special Thanks
  • Rishi Coppola
    Special Thanks
  • Kameryn Hamilton
    Special Thanks
  • Derek Myers
    Special Thanks
  • Jonathan Mirazi
    Special Thanks
  • Luke Petronella
    Special Thanks
  • Roxy Taylor
    Special Thanks
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Genres:
    Drama, Thriller, Comedy, Horror
  • Runtime:
    10 minutes 54 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    May 16, 2026
  • Production Budget:
    10,000 USD
  • 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:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Digital Cinema Package:
    Unavailable
Director Biography - Richard Imburgio

Richard Imburgio is a Brooklyn-based filmmaker specializing in stylistic, character-driven stories that explore connection, loneliness, and the absurdity of everyday life. He has years of experience directing and editing short films, music videos, advertisements, and digital content.

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Director Statement

"Sludge" is a story about young adulthood, guilt, and the painful process of outgrowing people who we thought we'd know forever. If I had to categorize "Sludge" in a genre, I'd best describe it as a "nightmare comedy". The characters are thrown into absurd, emotionally heightened situations that constantly challenge the audience to laugh. It takes the audience on a dizzying, funny, and emotional ride inspired by some of my favorite dark comedies.

The film was inspired by my own complicated relationship with a childhood friend who refused to accept adulthood. I wanted to explore the gut-wrenching "breakup" that happens when two childhood friends realize they've grown into completely different people.

Thank you so much for taking the time to watch "Sludge." The cast, crew, and I had an incredible time making it. I sincerely hope that you enjoy the film.