Pleasure Seeking (Short Film, Passion Project)

"PLEASURE SEEKING", FILMING IN BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA THIS FEB/MARCH!

Hi There!

I'm Kayla Purba, I'm absolutely humble and proud to say that I'm the producer for our short film "Pleasure Seeking". Alongside an extremely talented crew of students that are truly passionate and driven for all things filmmaking! We're highly ambitious and determined to bring something new to the table aswell as create something that will help us launch in to the creative fields.

To learn more about our film and stay updated for behind the scenes, you can follow along our journey via Instagram, @pleasureseekingfilm :)

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Logline:

As Charlie relives his long friendship with Jordyn, he begins to realize something is altering his memories.

Synopsis:

Charlie is undergoing an experiment designed to control his mind by reliving cherished memories with his best friend, Jordyn. Yet, each joyful memory is repeatedly tainted by the looming shadow of their inevitable falling out. As he navigates this past friendship, to confront this painful truth, his efforts are thwarted by the scientist’s need to maintain the illusion of happiness to keep him under control.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tone & Style:

Pleasure Seeking combines surrealist elements of science fiction alongside the playful charm of a buddy comedy to unpack the complexities of friendship and memory.

Drawing inspiration from Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004), Superbad (2007), and Black Mirror (2011), the film questions whether pleasurable memories of a person can be fully sustained—potentially even used as reinforcement for mind control—when overshadowed by the sadness of loss. At its heart, it’s a poignant story about the ending of a friendship and the overlooked mistakes that lead up to it.

The dialogue is snappy, quick-witted, and infused with the distinct sensibilities of Gen Z. Characters communicate with a mix of sarcasm, irony, inside jokes, and insults that are in good interest for each other to reflect the closeness of their relationship. The non-linear storytelling and constant change of setting also provides a glimpse into Charlie’s mental state, constantly under the effect of mind control and memories.

Throughout the film, reality and his memories progressively bleed into each other, as Charlie attempts to regain control of his mind, as well as make amends with Jordyn.

Why This, Why Now?

As we watch Charlie reminisce on his friendship with Jordyn, he slowly loses the rose-tinted glasses of nostalgia and becomes progressively more aware of his own flaws and mistakes. He constantly finds himself back at their last big fight, but each time with a deeper understanding of Jordyn and how his neglect affected their relationship. However, by the time he finally realizes how to salvage their bond, it is already too late to go back and change the memory, leaving him back at square one and with a “hole” in his memory where Jordyn used to be.

Nowadays, there is a universal tendency to prioritize romantic relationships over platonic ones, causing people to neglect their friendships and fall out with lifelong friends for seemingly no reason. In reality, platonic relationships must be maintained much like any romantic connection, and this includes reflecting on one’s own shortcomings and the way we hurt those closest to us. Pleasure Seeking aims to remind people that although reminiscing on the past may be painful, it is important to reflect on the painful and flawed moments of a relationship instead of only seeking out the pleasurable ones.

So you may be wondering, where is this money going to? And, well, the answer is rather simple.

The money made here will be supporting all areas of the film, but particularly:

Production Design - the art department will be crafting intricate sci-fi labratory props and head pieces for the actors/actresses

Catering for our entire crew and cast over the 7 day shooting block

Locations - we will be filming at the Con Theatre Recital Room and Studio 1 Yeerongpilly (Makeshift Labratory)

Special Equipment specific for production design, sound, camera and lighting departments, post production

Words from the Bhas Our Beloved Director/Actor:

Having dedicated my life to acting, every project I've worked on has sparked new stories I couldn't ignore. This film initially began as a fleeting thought— an idea I couldn't shake—and over the past six months, it has grown into something truly special. What was once just a vision has now become a deeply collaborative passion project, fueled by an incredibly talented cast and crew who have poured their time and commitment into bringing it to life.

This project has been entirely self-funded, but with your support it will aid crucial expenses such as equipment for each creative department, location fees, catering for cast and crew —ensuring that those who have given their time and talent are well taken care of. Every contribution helps transform this dream into a reality, allowing us to reach its fullest cinematic potential. An experience that will also later be shared back into the world through film festivals and screenings, where its impact will continue to grow.

Your support means more than just funding—it’s a belief in storytelling, in passion, and in the nature of independent filmmaking. Thank you for being a part of this journey.

MUCH LOVE,

PLEASURE SEEKING CREW