Vacant Rooms: A Captivating Short Film by Sonia Wojas

A Unique Blend of Children's Story and Horror

Vacant Rooms tells the story of Zosia, an eleven-year-old girl sent to stay with her aunt in a remote area. Zosia's mother, consumed by her career, hopes the vacation will provide a much-needed break for her daughter. However, Zosia soon discovers that her aunt's mansion is rumored to be haunted. As she unravels the mysteries of the house, Zosia befriends a peculiar boy named Tomek, leading her down a path filled with unexpected twists and turns.

What sets Vacant Rooms apart is its unique blend of children's storytelling and horror elements. The film captures the innocence and curiosity of childhood while immersing viewers in an eerie and suspenseful atmosphere. The juxtaposition of these genres creates a captivating narrative that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.

The realization of Vacant Rooms involved meticulous planning and attention to detail. The design team, led by Sonia Wojas, worked closely with the director and cinematographer to bring the story to life. With a carefully crafted storyboard in hand, they scouted locations and searched for props and costumes that would evoke the desired atmosphere. Some items were patinated or remade specifically for the production, ensuring every element aligned with the film's vision.

Technical specifications for Vacant Rooms include a runtime of 27 minutes, an aspect ratio of 2.35:1, and a Dolby Digital sound mix. The film was shot using an Arri Alexa camera, resulting in stunning visuals that enhance the storytelling experience.

Vacant Rooms has garnered recognition in the film industry, receiving the Bronze A' Design Award in the Movie, Video, and Animation Design category in 2021. This prestigious accolade celebrates the film's outstanding creativity and resourcefulness, showcasing its ability to captivate audiences and contribute to the improvement of the cinematic landscape.

Currently being showcased at film festivals, Vacant Rooms was originally intended for older children and young teenagers. Director Bartlomiej Jakubiak aims to create movies that deliver positive messages while providing entertaining experiences for viewers.

The production of Vacant Rooms began in May 2018 in Warsaw, with filming taking place in Barlinek in July of the same year. The project was completed in November 2019, after overcoming various creative, technical, and research challenges. The collaboration between departments, particularly the cinematography and set design teams, was crucial in bringing the film's vision to fruition.

Vacant Rooms is a testament to the power of storytelling and the art of design. With Sonia Wojas's exceptional set and costume design, this short film transports viewers to a world where imagination and reality intertwine, leaving them captivated until the very end.