Respect the Ocean
A Short Film by Shantal Medina
Based on real events, "El Mar Se Respeta" follows a woman's transformative journey from childhood to adulthood as she navigates the powerful and unpredictable waves of the ocean, guided by her father's profound wisdom. In the face of a near tragedy, she discovers the enduring lessons of respect, resilience, and the unwavering connection between her inner strength and the vastness of the sea.
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Built complete production book with visual references, directions for shot styles, set and costume design, lighting, color palettes and storyboards
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Casting, Set Design, Location Scouting, Permits, On-set supplies
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Wrote story based on real and personal events. Created shot list, storyboards and directed the film
“…The ocean becomes a powerful symbol, embodying both the beauty and unpredictability of existence, the importance of guidance and, the impact of the people we encounter throughout life.”
Art Direction
The film happens through a series of non-chronological vignettes. Some occur in the present and others in the past, resembling a memory. Most of the storyline occurs inside the character's memory of a life-changing event. The film style and colors of each vignette differentiate the timeline.
Present
The overall mood is nostalgic but playful and lively. The character is in a state of reminiscing and enjoying her day at the beach. The color palette features pastel hues, including soft pinks, mint greens, sunny yellows, and vibrant blues, creating a cheerful, dreamy, and retro atmosphere.
Dreamscape
The overall mood is introspective and hazy/dreamy. Cool tones, particularly blues, purples, and grays, characterize the color palette. The scenes are washed out and colors muted, emphasizing a memory's skewed and undefined details.
