A surreal compliance screening. A failed cuddle audit. A woman who refuses to participate in her own erasure.

Written and directed by Amanda Nevarez, The Polygraph is an absurdist psychological dramedy that unpacks emotional compliance through the lens of a surreal bureaucratic interview. In this indie short film, one woman is summoned to explain her role in a chaotic polycule and must navigate protocol, passive-aggressive rituals, and the lingering pressure to soften herself for others. Armed with snacks and unapologetic clarity, she must decide whether to comply or walk away.

Created for the 2025 Collaboration Filmmakers Challenge

Credits

Writer, Producer, and Director: Amanda Nevarez

Producer and Editor: Ali Naqvi

Producer and The Assistant: Susan Spano

Producer and Rico: Paul Galliano

Jay: Tharun Dulla

The Oracle: Paula Tiso

Captain Savahoe: Alex Polcyn

Director of Photography: Rachel Hastings Adair

Assistant Camera: Alex Wilson

Gaffer: Shahan Rao

Gaffer: Aditya Gupta

Key Grip: Amazon Beard

Sound: Jason Sayada

Hair, Makeup, and Wardrobe: Holly Ruth

Production Designer: Shantisheree Patil

Composer: Bee Gilmore

Colorist: Jenn Lee

Location: The Mayflower Club, Burbank CA 

Will be submitted by June 4, 2025.

Short (Drama, Poetic Realism, Arthouse), Written by Amanda Nevarez, Based on a story by Dmitry Falaleev

Anya is a poetic short film about the quiet connections we stumble into—and never quite forget. Set in a rain-soaked St. Petersburg and performed in Russian with English subtitles, the story follows a group of Muscovites and their encounter with a bartender whose stillness cuts through their chaos. What begins as a drunken wager turns into a moment that lingers far beyond the night.

Told with minimal dialogue, lyrical visuals, and emotional precision, Anya explores how even the briefest interactions can shift how we see the world—and each other.

Episodic (Drama, Comedy, Coming-of-Age, Slice of Life)

Logline: In 90s San Fernando Valley, Veronica—a sharp, unapologetic Chicana—navigates gang culture, fractured family ties, and a life lived on her own terms. Life, Unscripted is a raw, non-linear drama that blends dark humor with emotional grit, offering an unfiltered look at survival, identity, and the cost of freedom. 

Feature Documentary (Urban Exploration, Historical & Archival)

Logline: Queen Mary: The Lost Legend of Studio City is a captivating documentary that unveils the forgotten story of a once-thriving landmark. Through rare footage and insightful interviews, this film explores the mysterious rise and fall of this iconic location, uncovering the secrets hidden beneath its faded facade.

Feature Film (crime, drama), Written by Chris Kato

Logline: When a reserved attorney takes on the case of a murdered escort, she is forced to confront her own biases about sex work. With the help of her unconventional colleague, she delves into the victim’s complex life, uncovering truths that challenge societal judgments and redefine justice. 

Feature Film (Sci-Fi/Psycho Thriller), Written by Semyon White

Logline: Four strangers wake up in a storm-lashed house with no memory of how they arrived. As paranoia mounts, they search for answers—unaware that otherworldly beings are observing their every move in a chilling experiment on identity and control.

Short (Drama/Thriller), Written by Amanda Nevarez

Logline: Trapped in her high-rise office on the night her company shuts down, a powerful CEO confronts an unexpected adversary—a quiet janitor who knows all her secrets and forces her to reckon with the cost of her ambition.