My short film SOMNI~ is a supernatural drama that explores themes around breaking toxic cycles and finding freedom within yourself.

In life and in art, I’ve always been drawn to stories of redemption. In SOMNI~, the protagonist Adel must break free from her demons, especially as they relate to the effects of fear, grief and loss.

In this story, Adel is visited by a ghostly apparition during a lucid dream who forces her to return to the day when she witnessed the murder of her mother by her mother’s boyfriend. While I am making a statement in my film about the devastating effects of domestic and family violence, I am equally interested in expressing how our childhood experiences influence our behaviour as adults, the choices we make, and how we can ultimately heal. Certainly for Adel, her trauma represents the catalyst from which her future relationships are influenced, including most importantly, the relationship she has with herself.

I’ve always believed in this film and the importance of the story I’m telling, but I wanted to tell it in an unconventional, surreal style that leaves space for the audience to process its themes in their own unique way, while leaving room for debate and discussion. 

From my perspective, SOMNI~  is a film about facing your fears, dealing with heartbreak, healing from trauma, trusting your intuition, connecting with your soul self, experiencing transformational change and rebirth. SOMNI~ is a film created from my heart and soul.

It has been such a privilege to work with my talented cast and crew. I recognize the trust they put in me and I’ve felt a huge responsibility to them throughout the entire process. I’ve always wanted to honour their trust and their work by never compromising, by making the best film I could possibly make.

 Anna Coughlan-Hildebrandt