The grief of heartbreak is both a unique and universally relatable theme explored in the short film Lasting Flames. It perceives break-ups as a grieving process; mourning someone who is still alive.
Written and directed by Federica Alice Carlino – recently recognised as the most awarded director under 35 – Lasting Flames is a deeply personal project that almost wasn’t pursued.
“I wrote this project based on a very personal feeling and experience. It took me a while to decide whether or not to produce this short, as it came from a deep emotional place,” Carlino said.
Above: Federica Carlino
A story close to her heart, Carlino explained that as painters paint, and songwriters write, she processed her experiences through writing stories. She pursued the idea, knowing it was a universal experience many could relate to.
“It was an incredibly cathartic process for me, and I’m proud to have come to a place where I can share it with others… [As] I was explaining the concept to my cast and crew, I could see their minds travelling through their memories. Some of them told me they could definitely relate to it, and that was one of the first impressions that showed me I was on the right path.”
Lasting Flames follows ex-lovers Danielle and Jack, who have recently broken up and now experience the agonising loss of one another.
Above: Danielle and Jack played by Emeline Nsingi Nkosi and Jack Roper
However, through their emotional journey, the film explores the theme of hope.
As Danielle and Jack learn to live without each other, they find solace in cherishing their memories together, forever holding onto the love they once shared. The painful process of moving on is contrasted by the enduring power of love, memory, and the quiet promise that the past will never be forgotten.
Lasting Flames celebrates previous relationships that you look back on fondly. They’re the people who have taught you lessons that help you to become a better person for your future relationships.
“You learn to give your whole heart again,” Carlino explains. “This [short film is] for the good exes that you don’t resent in any way.”
Currently in pre-production, Carlino’s favourite part so far has been the casting process.
Danielle is played by Emeline Nsingi Nkosi and Jack is played by Jack Roper. Their new partners, Ashton and Mary are played by Nathan Bryant and Willow Zhao respectively.
Carlino will include English voiceover narration by Rory Kilgor from USA, and Italian narration by Michele Vitarelli from Italy.
“It was important for me to have it in my language as well,” Carlino said.
Born in Milan, Italy, Carlino first explored television before studying filmmaking, acting, photography, editing, visual effects, prothetics and makeup. In 2016, she relocated to Los Angeles, where she earned a BFA from the New York Film Academy. She further honed her acting skills at the Met Film School in Ealing, UK, and Pinewood Studios.
Despite living and working in Los Angeles, Carlino is shooting her new project in London, England. She had to start networking all over again and assemble a new crew to work with.
“The most challenging part is definitely finding my way in a new city. I had to find new people to collaborate with from scratch when I moved to London… Surprisingly it was smoother than expected, but it still had its challenges.”
Above: Ruby Ballantyne, Director of Photography.
Carlino always hoped to work with a predominantly female team, and on this project, it came together naturally.
The film is produced by Cameron Wight and shot by cinematographer Ruby Ballantyne. Gracie Herring handled hair and makeup, including the wig for Danielle’s character. Amy Reid (gaffer) and Chelsea Bernard (first assistant camera) played crucial roles in shaping the film’s visual style.
The film’s music is being composed by Victor Muñoz from Spain.
Being on set with the cast and crew is another of Carlino’s favourite parts of the process.
“I’ve been doing this for more than 15 years now, and it’s still the same feeling. There’s a sense of energy and creativity in the air, and it’s truly a magical experience to be a part of.”
Lasting Flames will be released on YouTube this year (2025), and within film festivals worldwide.
To stay up to date with the short film’s release, follow their Instagram account @lastingflamesmovie, and @federica.alice.carlino for sneak peeks behind the scenes.
With Carlino’s professional influences including Steven Spielberg, Tim Burton and Greta Gerwig, this short film is sure to be an emotional and visually transportive experience for anyone who has ever been in love.
“I hope to reach broken-hearted people with my work [and] offer them some relief, as I found it for myself. I want them to know that what they feel is valid and it’s part of life, but there’s hope.”
Above: Cameron Wight, Producer
All imagery by Leon Philipp.
This is a paid article.
NZ Film Freak 