In The Woods With a Dead Dog
directed by Vera Graziadei
adapted by Vera Graziadei from Michel Faber’s short story
Sydney, ex-principal breadwinner for an ex-thriving family finds himself in the pre-dawn woods with an ex-dog in his hands. As he wanders around in the dark, literally and metaphorically, his memory unfurls a series of first world misfortunes that have befallen him of late, alongside more serious concerns about the health of his daughter and the state of his marital relationship, which seems to be no more alive than the lifeless pet in his hands. However, what seems to be like a good moment for reckoning turns out to be Syd’s life-hack plot to continue denying reality and avoid taking responsibility, while attempting to save dignity in front of his daughter when everything else is lost.
Screenings/Awards
- Unrestricted View Film Festival, 2021
Nominated for Best International Director, Won Special Mentions for Best Cinematography and Best Editing - Oregon Short Film Festival 2021
Nominated for Best International Director - WorldFest Houston International Film Festival 2021
Won Bronze Remi Award for Best Comedy Adaptation - London Independent Film Awards 2021
Winner of Best Comedy/Dramedy Short - Austin Comedy Film Festival 2021
Official Selection - London-Worldwide Comedy Short Film Festival 2021
Honorary Mention - New York Shorts International Film Festival 2021
Official Selection - Orlando Film Festival 2021
Official Selection - Falcon International Film Festival 2021
Award Winner: Critics Award, Best Editing, Best Cinematography, Best Original Score - Los Angeles Film Awards 2022
Winner of Best Dark Comedy - Independent Shorts Awards 2022
Gold Award for Best Director (Female), Best Dark Comedy Short, Best Editing, Silver Award for Best Actor, Honourable Mention for Best Original Score - Los Angeles Comedy Film & Screenplay Festival 2022
Official Selection
Vera Graziadei 