The original idea for this short came from a vision of a shot that I wanted to get; I envisioned two cars in pursuit going through roundabouts as fast as possible, while the camera was following them from above.
The idea didn't go anywhere for awhile until, I came across a film contest I wanted to enter called the MyRodeReel contest. I figured this would be the perfect opportunity to make a fun video using my skill set, and have a chance to get recognized for it.
Sadly, the project did not get off the ground quick enough to meet the deadline of the contest. However, my film partner Caleb Long, and everyone else in the crew was determined to see the project through to completion, so we pushed on production anyways.
The film was premiered at a screening held by the Greater Columbus Film Commision at the Drexel Theater in Bexley, OH. and was received very well among audience members
Caleb Long (left), and Nick Mammone (right) on the red carpet at Drexel Theatre
In March 2019, the film was submitted to the Golden Lion High School Awards to compete in the Short Narrative category. The contest takes entries from 12 Midwestern states, and anywhere within a 500 mile range of where the event is hosted; Cincinnati, OH. The film was one out of 16 approved shorts in the Short Narrative Category, and competed against 164 submitted films across all categories
The film ended up taking 2nd place, and winning the White Lion Award. Even better, "Focus In" went on to win Best Cinematography out of all entries in the festival.
