Mohamed Maged
Egyptian filmmaker, Co-Founder of DASH Group media & film production. An international award-winning creative and film director. One of the Notable Alumni of the New York Film Academy in Los Angeles, and studied at The Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in New York, USA. Achieved his Bachelor’s and postgraduate degrees in filmmaking and cinema studies from the Academy of Art in Egypt. His whole life, he has studied and worked in the art field, worked in advertising, animation projects, TV commercials, and films, as a creative and film director, and participated in most of the hit campaigns, branding, and TV commercials in MENA over the past decade. Winning and being nominated for over 85 international and regional awards from different films and advertising festivals.
What is the story behind your film?
"Trapped" is a story that goes into the concept of karma and the consequences of one's actions. It follows a young man who finds himself caught in a loop, unable to escape the same frame no matter where he moves. The film explores themes of destiny, personal responsibility, and the idea that our past actions can influence our present.
What is the story behind your film?
"Trapped" is a story that goes into the concept of karma and the consequences of one's actions. It follows a young man who finds himself caught in a loop, unable to escape the same frame no matter where he moves. The film explores themes of destiny, personal responsibility, and the idea that our past actions can influence our present.
What should people take away, gain, realize after watching your film?
I hope viewers will contemplate the idea that our choices and actions have consequences, often returning to us in unexpected ways. "Trapped" serves as a reminder that our past can haunt us and that we should be mindful of our decisions.
Do you think that films can change people for the better or for the worse?
Films have the potential to influence people in both positive and negative ways. It depends on the content and the viewer's interpretation. As a filmmaker, I aim to create content that inspires and enhances thought.
What creation style did you use in the production of your project? What cameraman elements did you use?
"Trapped" was shot using a combination of visual storytelling and practical effects. We employed various camera techniques and rules of composition to emphasize the young man's dilemma, creating a sense of claustrophobia.
*film storyboard
How did you select the actors for your project?
During the casting process, we were keen to find actors who could convey the emotions and depth required for the roles. We held auditions and carefully assessed their ability to express the complexity of the characters.
Why do you think your film should appeal to distributors?
"Trapped" has garnered acclaim at various film festivals, and its unique storyline, visual appeal, and thought-provoking themes make it an attractive option for distributors. It offers a distinctive viewing experience that can engage a broad audience.
At which festival has your film been screened?
"Trapped" has been screened at several prestigious film festivals, including the Alexandria International Film Festival, Golden Knight Film Festival, Swedish International Film Festival, and Festival Città di Imperia, among others.
How did you select the actors for your project?
During the casting process, we were keen to find actors who could convey the emotions and depth required for the roles. We held auditions and carefully assessed their ability to express the complexity of the characters.
Why do you think your film should appeal to distributors?
"Trapped" has garnered acclaim at various film festivals, and its unique storyline, visual appeal, and thought-provoking themes make it an attractive option for distributors. It offers a distinctive viewing experience that can engage a broad audience.
At which festival has your film been screened?
"Trapped" has been screened at several prestigious film festivals, including the Alexandria International Film Festival, Golden Knight Film Festival, Swedish International Film Festival, and Festival Città di Imperia, among others.
How did your acquaintances react when they first saw the film?
The initial reactions from acquaintances were a mix of curiosity and fascination, as some of them were directly involved in the events and felt that the main character in the film expressed them in one way or another. They were captivated by the film's enigmatic concept and the young man's predicament. It sparked discussions about the idea of karma and the consequences of one's actions.
If you could change something in your film, what would it be?
While I'm generally satisfied with the final product, as a filmmaker, there's always room for improvement. If I were to make changes, I might explore more layers of the hero's internal struggle.
Which movies are your favorites and why?
I have a deep appreciation for films that challenge conventions and explore complex human emotions. films like "The Shawshank Redemption" and "The Godfather." have had a significant influence on me due to their thought-provoking narratives innovative storytelling techniques, and character development.
What topics do you like to address in your stories?
I'm drawn to stories that explore the human condition, the consequences of one's actions, and the interplay between fate and personal choice. I enjoy narratives that challenge the audience's perceptions and encourage introspection.
What is your motivation in making films?
My motivation stems from the desire to share meaningful stories and evoke emotions in audiences. Filmmaking allows me to express my creativity and connect with viewers on a profound level.
Which contemporary filmmakers motivate you the most?
Filmmakers like Quentin Tarantino, Martin Scorsese, and Christopher Nolan inspire me with their ability to craft compelling narratives and characters, using time and tempo, and push the boundaries of storytelling. Their work was and always encourages me to explore new cinematic horizons.
What projects do you plan to shoot in the future?
I'm currently working on a film project that explores the complexities of human relationships in a dramatic and emotional manner.
It's a departure from "Trapped," and I'm excited to go into this new creative challenge, aiming to connect with audiences on a different level while continuing to push the boundaries of storytelling.
Learn more:
IMDB : https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10095032/
Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/magedart
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/magedart/