TTC: Donovan Santiago

What was your experience with filmmaking before lockdown began?

I always enjoyed my experience with film making. I went to film school and learned how to work on sets with everyone and I also went to a lot of YouTube Space NY events to hone my craft. I learned how to work different aspects. Even before film school and YouTube Space, I was making short films on Youtube starting in 2007. I’ve always liked being able to morph my ideas in real projects. Getting the crew, actors and equipment has always been a challenge, but a fun one.

Which is your favorite short of yours, and why?

I really love The Final Gesture. I think it all comes together great; The lighting, the characters and the theme.

I played a younger version of my character Randalf from Agenda 13.

The Final Gesture (No. 24: Gesture)

The story is that he is isolated in a strange house from the mysterious Man in White. I really love the feeling of isolation. Randalf finally meets Sandra, a Pink Dog and the two become friends. Since 2008, I’ve only had one Pink Dog character and he was a bad guy. So, for the first time ever I introduced a nice Pink Dog. It was great to play a nice character in that new type of way. I also love the relationship between Randalf and Sandra. Both are isolated until they become friends.

Has watching other submissions influenced you?

Yes, they have. Seeing what can be done on a cell phone from the likes of Megan and John, Annie-Sage Whitehurst and Mike Dowd. Those three are my favorite in terms of overall films. I would say the other films inspire me to keep doing what I am doing and taking risks. Each person brings their own voice to each film. Each person who enters tries something new. So, I am inspired to keep creating and keep having fun. I’m inspired by all of the projects in some way.

Can you describe a time you tried something new or risky with one of your submissions?

I would say Recall the Glutes. Only because I second guessed myself about putting on the tights. And also, the main focus was my butt. I thought it would be too strange. However, I realized it would be a funny, odd little film. So, I pushed through and did it. I’ve also tried new things in different films, for instance playing with lights in The Tangled, using puppets in Remix The Realities, doing just a voice over in Reframe From The Darkness. I always try to switch it up if I can.

What's next for donovan

I have started applying [to competitive film festivals]. I started late in September. I realized I had a lot of great short films and that I had been missing out. So, I found the website to apply and started putting up projects. I have submitted to 8 festivals so far for a few different Sequestered Films. So far, I have Dust To Dust, The Final Gesture, Agenda 13, and Ego or Fortune on the site. I will be adding more as I pick my favorites. I am now on the lookout for more places to submit.