Stealing Time, 2011: A Time Travel Comedy Short Film

• Country: United States
• Initial release: N/A
• Film Director: Alex Calleros
• Running Time: 18 Minutes
• IMDB Grade: 6.8

Stealing Time is an 18-minute time travel comedy short film directed by Alex Calleros and released in 2011. This sci-fi gem tells the story of a down-on-his-luck inventor who builds a time machine with the intention of changing the past, only to set off a disastrous chain of events. Combining elements of humor, suspense, and the paradoxical nature of time travel, Stealing Time offers a unique and entertaining viewing experience.

The Plot: A Comedy of Time Travel

In Stealing Time, the protagonist, an inventor facing various challenges, decides to take matters into his own hands and constructs a time machine. Fueled by the desire to alter the course of his life, he unwittingly triggers a series of unforeseen consequences. The film explores the concept of the butterfly effect, where small actions in the past can have significant ramifications in the present and future.

The Making of Stealing Time

The idea for Stealing Time originated in February 2010 when director Alex Calleros challenged his collaborator, Michael Tucker, to write a short script based on specific constraints. These constraints included the requirement for the characters to mention the phrase “time travel” and the existence of a long-standing rivalry between two characters. Tucker took these constraints and crafted a clever and witty script that served as the foundation for the film.

After more than a year of development, Stealing Time went into production in spring 2011 as part of a film series for the website Finite Films. With a meager budget of under $1000, the film was a testament to the passion and dedication of the entire cast and crew, who volunteered their time and expertise to bring the project to life.

Critical Reception and Audience Response

Upon its release in July 2011, Stealing Time garnered positive reviews from both critics and audiences. The film’s unique blend of comedy and science fiction captivated viewers, earning praise for its clever storytelling and entertaining performances. Many viewers appreciated the film’s ability to balance humor and complex time travel concepts, creating an engaging and enjoyable experience.

The Influence of Stealing Time

As a time travel comedy, Stealing Time draws inspiration from the rich history of the genre. It pays homage to classic films like the ones directed by Steven Spielberg, which ignited Calleros’ passion for filmmaking from a young age. Additionally, the film’s director, Alex Calleros, cites Alfonso Cuarón’s “Children of Men” as a significant influence, admiring its intelligent storytelling and emotional impact.

Lessons Learned and Future Projects

Through his journey in the film industry, Alex Calleros has learned valuable lessons. He emphasizes the importance of taking initiative and creating films, regardless of the lack of a clear career path. Calleros believes that the experience gained from producing self-financed, low-budget short films has been more valuable to his growth as a writer and director than any industry job.

Looking ahead, Calleros and his production company, Finite Films, are currently developing a web series based on one of their previous short films, “Anamnesis.” This exciting project showcases their dedication to creating compelling content and furthering their exploration of storytelling through various mediums.

Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers

For aspiring filmmakers, Calleros offers valuable advice based on his own experiences. He encourages them to start making movies in any way possible, emphasizing the importance of finding a community of like-minded collaborators. By creating and sharing their work, filmmakers can gain valuable feedback, improve their skills, and showcase their unique perspectives to the industry.

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