An experimental dance film – Dark at Sea. A love letter to the rewards and sacrifices of creative life. This beautiful collaboration between award-winning Mexican filmmaker Carlos Asse and cinematographer Paul Theodoroff, “Dark at Sea” was shot in a 35mm film and captures themes of frustration, defeat and the abiding pursuit of success through the movements of dancers Matthew Gibbs.
The project itself emerged from Asse’s desire to break from usual routines and create something more personal and abstract. Dark at Sea provides an unsettling exploration of a man’s struggle with himself as he battles to determine the true meaning of his journey as a dancer.
The initial concept came to life after Asse’s desire to explore a side of filmmaking he had never approached or experimented with in the past. A small idea sparked his interest and he approached cinematographer Paul Theodoroff to lens the film.
“Dark at Sea started as a love letter to the ambitions and the payoffs that come with being creative and the sacrifices that it entails. I wanted to create something personal and abstract that the general audience, and especially our creative community, could relate to. Making this film reminded me that the persistent nature of the human being is what keeps us hungry for what’s left out there to conquer. On the other hand, the pandemic forced us to reflect on our behaviours and the way we view the world. Since I started a career in film, I’ve felt like I must give up everything else. This film is a reminder to be more gentle and compassionate with me”.
Directed and Produced by Carlos Asse / www.carlosasse.com / Instagram: @carlos.asse
Cinematography by Paul Theodoroff / Instagram: @paultheodoroff
Edit by Cavan J. Faucett / Instagram: @cavanjfaucett
Featuring Matthew Gibbs / Instagram: @matthewgibbs_et
1st AC: Joshua R. Cote
2nd AC: Travis Francis
Loader: Chastin Noblett
Carlos Asse:
Carlos Asse is a director/producer born and raised in Mexico City and based in Los Angeles, CA. His work is shaped by a passion for storytelling and his compassion for humanity, aiming to explore human relationships and social constructs. He strives to create thought-provoking work in an attempt to transform society.
