Cast
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Crew
Director
- Milo Straghalis
Writer
- Milo Straghalis
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Vertical Living examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Milo Straghalis brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2024, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Vertical Living took approximately 6 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $0.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 13 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 46 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 6 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2024, when this film is released:
- Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
- The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Vertical Living shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Whispers, which focuses more on action than character development, Vertical Living subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry and This Boy's Life explore similar territory, Vertical Living stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: May 13, 2024
- Runtime: 13m
- Budget: $1,500
