Leo Behrens
DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY
FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION
BEST LIVE ACTION SHORT FILM
96th Academy Awards
SKIN
A STUDENT OSCAR WINNER 2023

"Skin is a poetic exploration of identity and self-discovery, using visual symbolism to depict a woman's transformation into a man. With the help of her inner manifestation, the ice man, she sheds her old skin and embraces her true identity".
The short film is written, directed and shot by Leo Behrens on Kodak 35mm, starring Lio Mehiel.
The 2023 Gold Medal Winner in the Alternative/Experimental category at the Student Academy Awards
Official Selection AFI FEST & Oslo Fusion Int. Film Festival.
Writer/Director: Leo Behrens
Producer: Ilayda Cetinkaya
Cinematographer: Leo Behrens
Production Designer: Mojo Wen
Hair and Make Up: Shy Elizabeth
Editor: Alejandra Armijo
Colorist: Walter Volpatto
Composer: Mike Forst
Stills






Core Team

Leo Behrens
Writer, Director & Cinematographer
Instagram: dp_leobehrens
email: dp.leobehrens@gmail.com
phone: 213 588 5591
To see my previous work, click here

Ilayda Cetinkaya
Producer
Instagram: ilayda.cetink
email: icetinkaya@afi.edu
phone: 310 418 8285
Website: laydacetinkaya.com




Mike Forst
Composer
Instagram: mikeforst
Website: mikeforstmusic.com
Director's Statement
In 2011, I embarked on a personal journey, transitioning from female to male. From a young age, I expressed myself as male, but as my body changed, I tried to conform to societal expectations. This internal conflict became increasingly burdensome, leading me to realize that my inner and outer worlds were not in harmony. This eventually led me to make changes in my life.
My transition inspired “Skin". As I started developing the story, I wanted to explored (gender) transformation in an artistic and creative way. Transitioning is a deeply personal process, requiring self-examination from various angles. I used visual symbolism and an abstract approach to depict this inner emotional journey.
The female character undergoes an awakening, confronting her neglected identity by facing herself (the ice man). The film's theme can resonate with most individuals, regardless of gender identity or orientation. It portrays the transformative journey of shedding one's old skin and embracing a new identity, a narrative relatable to anyone who has undergone significant change.
I believe the universal themes and symbolism in "Skin" speak a universal language. Personal transformation is a shared human experience. By being more self-aware, we can navigate these stages more empathetically.
Behind The Scenes
Upcoming Screenings
No upcoming screenings at the moment
Media & Press
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Check out SKIN on IMDb