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2025
18-25 JUNE
First Dates - Cove - Awkward Silences - Loops
(Samuel Poon and Anysia Hall, 2025)
Synopsis
First Dates – Cove – Awkward Silences – Loops (Samuel Poon & Anysia Hall, UK, 2025) is a short, transgressive film that explores a socially disjointed interaction between two people, shaped by the rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and technology. It offers a commentary on screen time, loneliness, and our growing dependence on digital devices. The film highlights how deeply embedded technology has become in our lives—so much so that face-to-face communication often feels awkward or forced. Conversations, once natural, are now mediated or even replaced by technology to the point where conversations lack meaning, demonstrated throughout the film's disjointed and non-linear conversations. Set in an open-air environment, the film emphasises our disconnection from the natural world, showing people engrossed in their devices even in the most peaceful settings. Ultimately, it critiques the erosion of authentic human connection in an increasingly digital age.
This film is produced as part of the Transgressive Cinema Module.
CAST & CREW
Samuel is not known to be an experimental filmmaker, but he has been involved in over 30 short films during his time at Uni, many of which are also on this year’s LICA Fest website, and he was also an exec member of the Filmmaking Society. He is very much interested in working in either the camera or post production departments, with experience in commercial, documentary, sports and event videography and photography.
Anysia is a third year BA Film Studies Student who has been involved in over 15 student films during her time at Lancaster. These have been a number of positions, primarily directing, like Consume (2023) and Fixed on You (2025). She has also been an Exec of the Filmmaking Society. She is passionate about directing and producing.
@samuelppk.film
@anysia.04.x