Leo Behrens
DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY
STUDENT OSCAR WINNER 2023
SKIN
"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
Director of Photography: Leo Behrens
Production Designer: Mojo Wen
Hair and Make Up: Shy Elizabeth
Editor: Alejandra Armijo
Colorist: Walter Volpatto
Composer: Mike Forst
A woman wakes up to find her facial skin peeling off, terrified of what's underneath. Seeking answers, she looks into a mirror. Simultaneously, a parallel world within the mirror is unveiled, representing what is about to emerge within her—a part of herself she has long ignored, frozen in ice and snow. In this ice realm, a man wakes up. As her fear of what lies behind her skin grows, this world begins to melt and come to life. Through the mirror, the ice man guides her, assisting in her transformation, shedding her old skin, and uncovering her true identity.
Stills
Core Team
Leo Behrens
Writer, Director & Cinematographer
Instagram: dp_leobehrens
To see my previous work, click here
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
New York Indie Awards (Finalist) - November 17th
International Queer Film Festival Playa Del Carmen, Mexico - November 2024
Out on Film Atlanta - October 3rd and October 6th
Iris Prize Finalist, Wales - October 9th 12pm
Aladerri International Film Festival Chicago, Sept 27th 2024
Oldenburg Film Festival, Germany (Nominated) September 11th - 15th 2024
TINFF, Toronto (Nominated for 12 awards) - Sept 8th - 15th 2024
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Check out SKIN on IMDb
Media & Press