The young filmmaker and visual artist David Williams, known on social media as @dreamofdeathz, is drawing public attention with his debut short film "UNDERWORLD," a deeply symbolic and emotional piece that premiered on September 21 on the YouTube channel of @k3ndaya.
Williams, who describes himself as a director, photographer, editor, colorist, and 3D artist, revealed on Instagram that this work "is filled with symbols." It delves into themes such as innocence, frustration, poverty, the lack of opportunities, and, above all, the indomitable desire to pursue one's dreams.
The main characters, Yancarlos and Viti, played by Jonathan Domínguez and Yosmani Domínguez, inhabit a Cuba where dreaming becomes nearly unattainable.
"They are surrounded by frustrated, bitter, and sad adults and a reality that is not explicitly described but is perceived as raw and brutal," Williams explained in his post.
"This short film is a whisper to the child that lives within us. For my people, the island cage. A home that hurts, a land we love, yet it prevents us from flying. The frustration is palpable in the streets. Every glance hides the same longing: to escape. Every heart carries the same question: What hurts more? Staying and giving up on dreams, or leaving and giving up on the homeland?" the filmmaker wrote.
The short, which has received a notable response on social media with thousands of "likes" and supportive comments, brings together a talented artistic and technical team:
Script: @gaby_bouzon and @dreamofdeathz
Producer, assistant director, and art director: @gaby_bouzon
Actor directing: @rosalisuen
Special performances: @lissettedeleon_actriz, @yessie_guridi, and @roberto_romeroh
Sound: @amy.bocalandro
Camera department: @veletafilmscuba
Lighting department: @los_negrones_gl
Catering: @reyvt_ and @elchefcitooooo
Featuring the children of @grupoteatroabril_cuba
Executive producer: @k3ndaya
Director of photography, editing, and color grading: @dreamofdeathz
"UNDERWORLD" is not just an intimate look at contemporary Cuban reality but also an artistic statement about the resilience and pain of a generation trapped between nostalgia and the yearning for freedom.
Exploring the Impact of “Underworld”
What themes does the short film "UNDERWORLD" explore?
The film delves into themes such as innocence, frustration, poverty, lack of opportunities, and the unyielding desire to achieve one's dreams.
Who are the main characters in "UNDERWORLD" and who plays them?
The main characters are Yancarlos and Viti, played by Jonathan Domínguez and Yosmani Domínguez, respectively.