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The sound of the soul

"The Sound of the Soul" is a short documentary/experimental film that delves into the depths of human essence. Through a collection of faces and stares representing diverse ages, social classes, and races, the film unveils each person’s soul. By exploring the power of gaze, setting, and sound design, we are invited to confront profound questions: Who are we? What do we feel? How much do we endure? What is our role in the world?

  • Luis Moya
    Director
    the other side of the coin
  • Luis Moya
    Writer
  • Project Title (Original Language):
    Som da alma
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Experimental, Short
  • Genres:
    experimental, documentary, Philosophical, Poetic
  • Runtime:
    21 minutes 10 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    December 8, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    1,000 EUR
  • Country of Origin:
    Portugal
  • Country of Filming:
    United States, Bahamas, Peru, Portugal, United States
  • Language:
    Portuguese
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital, 4K
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Black & White and Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Distribution Information
  • Filmografo- cinema e audiovisual , LDA
    Distributor
    Country: Portugal
    Rights: All Rights
Director Biography - Luis Moya

Luís Moya is a Portuguese filmmaker whose work spans national and international collaborations with production companies and networks. His films, including The Other Side of the Coin and Mia Mia Sudan Tamam Tamam, have been awarded at renowned festivals.

With a degree in Cinema from Portugal and Belgium, Luís creates impactful narratives, blending technical mastery with a humanistic approach. His latest short, O Som da Alma (The Sound of the Soul), explores the depths of human essence, inviting reflection on our shared existence.

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Director Statement

"The Sound of the Soul" is a cinematic project that seeks to explore the complexity of human existence and provoke reflection on our journey in this world. The film invites the viewer to dive into the core of each person portrayed, understanding their emotions, experiences, and universal connections. Through gaze, setting, and sound design, it aims to capture the essence of humanity in all its diversity and convey a powerful message about the importance of cherishing every moment of our lives.

Inspired by the poem "Seize the day, for you are it," by the heteronym Ricardo Reis, the film addresses the pandemic as a historic milestone, honoring those who faced loss and hardship. It does not aim to depict races, religions, or social classes, but rather to share authentic stories that resonate with the longings, regrets, and joys we all experience as human beings.

One of the core techniques of the film involves presenting the audio of the characters’ stories in voice-over, where their voices become confessions of their souls. This approach reveals what lies in their minds — thoughts that are often left unsaid. The absence of a visible camera during the interviews was crucial to extracting genuine and powerful testimonies, allowing the audience to connect with their raw emotions.

With the characters staring directly at the viewer, the film creates an almost confrontational dynamic, challenging the audience and even provoking discomfort. This bold artistic choice intensifies the immersion and compels the viewer to deeply engage with the humanity on screen.

The intention is to create an immersive cinematic experience, where the audience is emotionally engaged through powerful imagery, meticulous sound design, and an original soundtrack that deepens the connection with the narratives presented.

"The Sound of the Soul" seeks to leave a record, for future generations, of the essence of humanity in the 21st century and the importance of fully living in the present. I sincerely hope it will leave a lasting impact on the hearts and minds of its viewers and that its message of carpe diem, empathy, and celebration of human diversity will resonate with both the jury and the public.