Justby

The third year of film academy studies is a time when theory gives way to practice, and ambitions collide with reality. It is here, at the intersection of the directing and producing departments, that two of the best students in their respective fields meet.

Sekbi, a brilliant and fiery director for whom every scene is sacred. And Just, a cool-headed and pragmatic producer for whom a film is, above all, about resources, schedule, and budget. After the winter session, their paths crossed on the set of the same project: Sekbi became the right-hand man of lead director Moddi, and Just became the protégé of lead producer Alceste.

Their mentors, Moddi and Alceste, work in tandem with respect and a touch of irony. But their protégés... that's a different story. Every meeting turns into a battleground between art and efficiency. Alceste, tired of their bickering, simply goes off to drink coffee, rubbing his temples. And Moddi merely smirks, watching the spectacle the young people are putting on.

Today is one of the first combined script discussion meetings. The air smells of freshly ground coffee, conflict, and creativity.

The door to the conference room opens, and Just enters, a folder under his arm and a bored expression. His gaze immediately finds Sekby. He places the folder on the table with a dull thud.

— So, let's start with the main thing. Pages 15-18. That scene in the cafe—it's cute, but completely dysfunctional. It doesn't advance the plot, doesn't develop the characters beyond what's already been said, and by my calculations, filming will take at least six hours. We're cutting it. We only have eight planned for the entire day.