Experiencing Interruptions?

The City That (Never) Sleeps

This film is inspired and adapted from a personal story. It provides a step into the shoes of a common experience in not just high school but life: the feeling of falling into an endless cycle and the struggle to find happiness. As the girl in this cycle tries to reclaim her passion, she also learns that relationships with others are what makes life so much more meaningful. Overall, "The City That (Never) Sleeps" is a story filled with lessons from regret and growth with a pinch of LGBTQ+ (there are subtle hints if you look closely). I hope that this film touches the experiences of others and reminds you to not let go of your inner child.

  • Marina Ten Have
    Director
    Camera/Screenplay
  • Natalie Omori-Hoffe
    Director
    Screenplay/Camera
  • Sakura Sato
    Key Cast
    "Sakura"
  • Natalie Omori-Hoffe
    Key Cast
    "Hatsuki"
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Genres:
    LGBTQ+, Narrative, Short, Romance
  • Runtime:
    6 minutes 51 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    January 31, 2020
  • Production Budget:
    20 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    Japan
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    Yes
  • DYTIATKO International Children’s Media Festival

    Official Selection
  • Lift Off! Film Festival

    Official Selection
Director Biography - Marina Ten Have, Natalie Omori-Hoffe

Hi, my name is Marina Ten Have.

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Director Statement

I've been passionate about filmmaking since the 6th grade when I started creating book trailers for my school's library. Ever since I picked up a camera, I've been captivated with the energy and power of filmmaking. I've so far created a variety of films which touch on topics that are important to me, from LGBTQ, mental illness, and how culture shapes your identity.