The Park Bench Revelation
A scientist's attempt to heal his love pulls him into a dream world where reality and imagination blur - until he faces a choice between ambition and love.
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Samuel Delphin BergerDirector
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Samuel Delphin BergerWriter
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Samuel Delphin BergerProducer
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Yiqiao Joey ZhaoDirector of Photography
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Eirik AffleckKey Cast"Emilio"
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Mercedes MurguiaKey Cast"Sophie"
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Kru Van GesselKey Cast"Dr. Sergé"
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Luke Sidney JohnsonKey Cast"A Doctor"
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Project Type:Short, Student
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Genres:Drama, Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Surreal, Mystery
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Runtime:15 minutes
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Completion Date:October 26, 2025
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Production Budget:6,500 EUR
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Country of Origin:Austria
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Country of Filming:United States
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Language:English
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Shooting Format:Digital
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Aspect Ratio:2.66:1
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Film Color:Color
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First-time Filmmaker:Yes
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Student Project:Yes - Fachhochschule Salzburg
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Digital Cinema Package:Unavailable
Born on December 20, 1994, in Austria, Primus Delphin Samuel Berger’s passion for filmmaking began at the age of seven, when he first experimented with stop-motion videos. This early spark has since developed through hands-on experience and his ongoing studies in MultiMediaArt at the Salzburg University of Applied Sciences, with a focus on film.
Samuel has contributed to notable productions like Nine Perfect Strangers (Season 2), The Million Dollar Bet (2025), Der Geier (2024), and Without a Trace - The Case of Nathalie B. (2025), gaining expertise in the production department. He has also worked with networks such as ServusTV, ZDF, and ORF, and honed his skills in music video production for bands like Clarence Wolof & The Passengers.
Currently, Samuel is in Utah, USA, working on his graduation film as part of an exchange program at Southern Utah University. Supported by Graf Filmproduktion GmbH, Magic Models GmbH, Land Kärnten Kultur as sponsors, Great Story Sound LLC as an audio post-production partner and Utah Shakespeare Festival, as well as Southern Utah University and Salzburg University of Applied Sciences as supporters, this project marks a significant milestone in his journey as a filmmaker.
With a clear career objective of working in the film industry, whether it’s crafting cinematic visuals, directing narratives, or stepping in front of the camera, Samuel is ready to bring ideas to the screen and contribute to the future of cinema.
When I started filming at the age of seven, I knew that filmmaking was my passion. Working with a camera and creating worlds does not feel like work to me – it is pure joy. The idea for this project arose spontaneously, but it never let go of me. I was so fascinated by the story that I could not stop writing. This project represents my dream: to bring my stories to the screen and to move the audience emotionally.
Visually and stylistically, the film reflects the mystical and depressive underlying mood of the narrative. Stark light and shadow contrasts and a modern, scientifically influenced aesthetic emphasize the protagonist's inner turmoil. The colors and set design convey the surreal and often dark atmosphere that accompanies Emilio on his search for answers.
Thematically, the story moves along the boundary between drama, sci-fi, mystery, and fantasy. It deals with universal themes such as family, work, love, and materialism. At the center is Emilio, who is searching for a cure for his wife Sophie, who is in a coma. In doing so, he is drawn into a surreal world that confronts him with the ultimate decision: Should he give in to his ambition or devote himself to his love for Sophie?
I want the audience to empathize with Emilio. His story reflects a profoundly relevant issue: In a world driven by materialism and performance pressure, we often forget what truly matters. By the end of the film, I want every viewer to ask themselves: Love or the pursuit of more?
The atmosphere on set is particularly important to me. I want everyone involved to feel comfortable. This is especially crucial during intimate or challenging scenes – it is vital to me that both actors and crew feel at ease. This also extends to catering, accommodation, and fair payment. Sustainability is another key concern for me.
This project is not just a story – it is a part of me, and I am excited to share it with the world.