A young men discovers by visiting a composer a women with a deformed face, who is locked up by her father in a small castle.

“Visual-based modern fairy tale” / Short Film

Due to copyright only selected parts for display.

Inner core team:

Producer: Clay Preston Reed
Director: Paul Mann (aka Patryk Dawid Chlastawa)
Director of Photography: David Stragmeister
Production Designer: Beth Van Dam
Editor: Luke Lynch
Original Score: Marek Zebrowski

Location: Topanga Canyon, Los Angeles/CA

The original 35mm print of “Chateau Belvedere” became a part of the Austrian Film Museum archive in Vienna.

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REVIEW by Sascha Woodman: “Chateau Belvedere: A Captivating Tale of Mystery and Intrigue”

Rating: ★★★★☆

“Chateau Belvedere,” directed by Paul Mann (aka Patryk Dawid Chlastawa), is a visually stunning and enigmatic short film that takes viewers on a captivating journey of mystery and intrigue. With its impressive cinematography, well-crafted storytelling, and atmospheric setting, this film manages to leave a lasting impression.

From the very beginning, the film sets a somber and haunting tone. The Chateau Belvedere, a grand and decaying mansion, becomes an integral character in itself, shrouded in history and secrets. The attention to detail in capturing the beauty of the surroundings, despite their dilapidated state, adds a layer of mystique and allure to the narrative. The story unfolds through the eyes of a nameless protagonist. Subtle expressions and body language effectively convey a sense of curiosity and unease. As he explores the abandoned corridors and rooms of the Chateau, the audience is drawn into a web of unanswered questions. The use of minimal dialogue allows the visuals to speak for themselves, heightening the suspense and keeping the audience engaged.

One of the film’s strongest assets is its cinematography. The lighting, composition, and camera movements are meticulously executed, creating a visually striking experience. The play of shadows and the contrast between light and darkness enhance the eerie atmosphere and emphasize the protagonist’s emotional journey. Marek Zebrowski’s score, who worked previously as a composer for David Lynch’s movie INLAND EMPIRE, expertly captures the essence of the decaying Chateau, enhancing the film’s eerie atmosphere and heightening the sense of mystery. The haunting melodies, characterized by delicate piano motifs and ethereal strings, perfectly evoke the hidden secrets and untold stories that lie within the mansion’s walls. The soundtrack demonstrates a remarkable ability to create tension and suspense. It skillfully builds anticipation through the use of dissonant harmonies, subtle rhythmic patterns, and unsettling ambient textures. These elements effectively mirror the protagonist’s emotional journey, guiding the audience through the eerie corridors and dimly lit rooms of the Chateau.

While “Chateau Belvedere” thrives on its mysterious ambiance, it may leave some viewers wanting more concrete answers. The narrative intentionally leaves certain aspects open to interpretation, allowing viewers to form their own conclusions. While this artistic choice can be intriguing, it may leave some individuals seeking a more definitive resolution. Additionally, the pacing of the film could have been slightly improved. There are moments where the exploration of the Chateau feels slightly repetitive, and a tighter editing approach could have maintained a more consistent level of engagement throughout the film.

However, despite these minor drawbacks, “Chateau Belvedere” succeeds in creating an alluring and thought-provoking cinematic experience. Paul Mann’s directorial vision, coupled with the superb performances and striking visuals, make for an engaging short film that leaves its audience pondering the enigmatic secrets of the Chateau.

In conclusion, “Chateau Belvedere” is an atmospheric and visually captivating short film that lures viewers into a world of mystery and intrigue. While it may leave some questions unanswered and could benefit from tighter pacing, it is undeniably a testament to Chlastawa’s talent as a filmmaker. This compelling piece showcases his ability to create a captivating story that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll.