The Science of Death
One of our short film programs we’re really excited about is called Twisted Tales Short Films. Among the tales of the twisted is “The Science of Death” by Daniel Bury. We asked him a few questions about it.
You can get tickets for Twisted Tales Short Films by clicking here.
Festivus Film Festival: What is “The Science of Death”?
Daniel Bury: At some point in each individual’s life, the reality of our mortality and eventual death suddenly becomes evident. Each person deals with the powerful truth of death in different ways. Many bury it deep away and ignore it, carrying on with their everyday lives. Others create elaborate myths and fairy tales to soften the truth with Romanticism. But what happens when one attempts to understand death through science? Will they forever remain overwhelmed by the harsh reality of our short existence? Or is there something deeper waiting to be discovered? “The Science of Death” is a film for those in this third category.
FFF: Describe the day you decided to make this film. What inspired you?
DB: Although I never have had a near-death experience myself, I became fascinated by stories and accounts of people who have had out-of-body experiences. Interestingly, all of these accounts seem to have a common element, in which the moment of death is a moment of white light and pure bliss. Thus began my mission to capture this beautiful aspect of death on film. The moment that really inspired me to go forward with this film was when I met with my professor Jeff McCracken and he told me about his own near-death experience from years ago. Because of this, I felt comfortable making this film because I knew I had a mentor who understood my goal.
FFF: What films inspire you?
DB: I truly believe that film is a powerful art that has the ability to forever alter the thoughts of viewers. Therefore, I am inspired by films that take risks and cause people to deviate from their standard way of thinking. My favorite films are the ones that present ideas that stay with people long after the film is over.
FFF: What’s next for you?
DB: I have a lot of exciting plans for my future. Currently, I am writing a feature-length version of “The Science of Death.” In order to truly achieve my goal of emulating a near-death experience on film, I definitely need more than the 15 minutes of screen time given in the short film. I have been extremely inspired lately, and all that I can say at this point is that the feature film is going to be very different than the short. While writing, I plan to take a year to live abroad in Australia and work in the film industry there. Then, I aspire to travel throughout Southeast Asia and India, and perhaps make a few exotic short films abroad before returning to the US to begin production on my feature. I am very excited to absorb new experiences abroad, because I know it will enrich the content of my future films.
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