
GUNPOWDER - Short film
Director & Script Editor
Gunpowder follows Jack, a man experiencing the early stages of dementia, as he prepares to propose to the love of his life, Rose. When he attends Rose's 54th birthday party, a cup of Gunpowder tea with its terrifying name triggers a series of haunting delusions, his mind struggles to piece together what is real and what is not.
These inner conflicts and illusions intensify, leading him to a rushed proposal that is more forced than heartfelt.
However, Rose has heard these words before.
From crowdfunding to casting, location scouting, and countless hours of shooting and editing—Gunpowder marked my debut as a director and script editor. I’m incredibly grateful to the crew for their dedication and unwavering support throughout the journey.
Bringing this story to life has been a deeply rewarding experience, allowing us to share a heartfelt exploration of dementia's bittersweet impact on relationships and how love endures even when memories fade.
Director - Apolena Herbrychova
Producer - Niles Watson
Script - Alina Ilin, Apolena Herbrychova