This Film Deserves to Name Itself

Matthew Estes · 2026 · 7 minutes

An unnamed protagonist is confronted by their own self hatred made manifest, and must overcome it in an attempt to accept themself.

Matt Estes is a twenty-three year old local filmmaker, recently graduated from The University of Tennessee Knoxville. He works as a production sound mixer on many local projects, while also writing, directing, and editing his own works. He often explores themes of self-introspection and individuality through abstract, quirky, horror narratives.

Katie Emler is a twenty-two year old queer filmmaker who recently graduated from the University of Tennessee Knoxville. They double majored in cinema studies as well as forensic anthropology. They engage with anthropological themes through their art to explore current social issues, bringing attention to them in new and unique ways.