How To Unlove Someone Funding

Help Bring How to Unlove Someone to Life!

Hey everyone!

My name is Alex, and I am the director of this upcoming short film I’m raising funds to bring my short film, How to Unlove Someone, to the screen—a dark comedy with a psychological twist that explores heartbreak, obsession, and the strange ways we try to move on. Please take the time to read on through on why you should choose to donate to our film

Why This Film?

How to Unlove Someone follows Daniel (Johnthan Zikas), a heartbroken guy who stumbles upon a mysterious guide to “unloving” his ex Ella (Lauren Paolini). But as he follows the steps, his reality starts to blur—who’s really in control here, and does he even want to let go?

This isn’t just another breakup story. It’s a mix of dark humour, unique visuals, and a thrilling twist, all wrapped up in a cinematic love letter to 2000s-style films.

Where Your Support Goes:

Production Costs – Securing locations, equipment, and props

Actors & Crew – Supporting the amazing talent behind the film by feeding them and getting them looking the part

Post-Production – Editing, sound design, and making it look incredible

Festival Submissions – Getting this film seen on the big screen

How You Can Help:

Any amount, big or small, makes a huge difference in helping us create something special. If you can’t donate, sharing this page with others is just as valuable!

We’re excited to make this film a reality, and with your support, we can bring How to Unlove Someone to life. Let’s make something unforgettable together!

Meet The Team

ALEX DE BORTOLI: DIRECTOR

Alex De Bortoli began his filmmaking journey in high school, where he and his friends created three short films that became widely popular among their peers. He then went on to study at MAPS Film School, where he crafted his most acclaimed work to date, Una Vacanza Mafioso. Though his journey is just beginning, Alex is driven by creativity, fresh ideas, and the vision of a great director.

JAKE WALDER: PRODUCER

Jake Walder is a 23 year old actor/film maker based in Adelaide, Jake has recently acted in the Adelaide fringe this year, and is actively involved in films, his most recent films are One Job, Adam and Luke, The Contractors. Jake also is involved in producing, casting and directing. Jake is looking forward to working on this project to bring the best work he can to the project

JONATHAN ZIKAS: ACTOR AS DANIEL

Jonathan Zikas is a Melbourne-based actor with an unstoppable drive to make it in the industry. New to acting but fueled by passion and dedication, he throws himself into every role with raw talent and authenticity. Constantly refining his craft, he’s proving that he belongs on screen. With his work ethic and determination, Jonathan Zikas is a name to watch—this is just the beginning.

DINESH ARNOLD: ACTOR AS MR E

Dinesh Arnold is an upcoming and award-winning actor, writer, and director who has been lucky enough to appear in a variety of different TV commercials, films, and theatre as an actor.

He previously directed Time's Up, a short film that’s racked up awards, including Best Director at the Gothamite New York Monthly Film Awards 2024, and Best Ensemble Cast at the Creation International Film Festival in Los Angeles 2024, among others.

Outside of filmmaking, he also works as a physiotherapist and loves staying active! His current obsessions are boxing and surfing. He loves to have a good cup of coffee and is always up for a good recommendation on a film/tv show!

LAUREN PAOLINI: ACTOR AS ELLA

My name is Lauren Paolini and I’m playing the character Ella in How To Unlove Someone. I am an Adelaide College of the Arts graduate. I have experience performing on stage, most recently starring in a show called ‘Savages’ which was brought to the 2024 and 2025 Fringe. In addition, I have also worked in films. Roles ranging from, a Mafia Boss’s daughter with a fiery personality, to a heartbroken birthday girl who breaks up with her boyfriend. I can’t wait to channel some of these roles into Ella and build on a brand-new character with a whole new personality.

VINCENT DONATO: ACTOR AS WAITER 

Vincent John Donato is an Australian Actor, Voice Artist, Director and Writer. He has appeared on television and the screen in iconic Australian movies and series, such as Wanted, Storm Boy and Heaven's Burning. He also voiced 2 characters in The Phoenix files, an Australian podcast based on Chris Morphew's Phoenix files novels. Vincent recently starred in the submersible disaster film Locker.

Vincent is a father of 2 amazing children and is happily married to Jo Donato, Author of Crossfire and Secrets.

WILLIAM DAY SHARMAN: CAMERA OPERATOR

When William Day Sharman steps onto a set, the game changes. Armed with his trusty Blackmagic camera, he’s not just a camera operator—he’s a master of visual storytelling. Trained at MAPS Film School, William has honed his craft to a razor’s edge, blending technical precision with an artist’s eye. His movements are sharp, his instincts flawless, and his ability to capture the perfect shot is almost supernatural.

Need a cinematic masterpiece on the fly? William delivers. His speed and efficiency behind the lens are unmatched, adapting to any challenge with the confidence of a seasoned pro. Whether it’s an intense tracking shot, a sweeping landscape, or a delicate close-up, he knows exactly how to make every frame sing. Directors trust him, crews admire him, and his camera? Well, it’s practically an extension of his own body.

William Day Sharman isn’t just good—he’s legendary.

PETER TITCHENER: AUDIO

Pete Titchener has been recording sound for short films for the past 5 years, although he is no stranger to audio recording. For the past 20 years, he has recorded musicians in his home studio.

In his relatively short time in the film industry, he has worked on more than 20 short films in Adelaide and recorded audio for a Channel Nine TV programme.

HALEY HANNAH: HAIR & MAKE-UP ARTIST

In the 4 years that I've been studying makeup, I have worked on over 30 different projects, varying from providing conventional makeup services, working on films, photoshoots, theatre, special effects, and prop making.

And in 2024 I worked on a feature film called "Numbered Lives" for which I have an IMDb credit.

ZACHARY HIGGINS: STILLS/BTS

Directed multiple short films, some including The Bounty a Star Wars fan film, The Hostage Crissis Action/comedy, Untouchable sc-fi plus more. Camera for 48-hour film 2024, Boom assist/runner as well as Extra on Caliburn. He also is a certified drone operator and runner for Beaumont children case Doco. Bts for One job. Currently working on BTS Edit for One Job and Edit for Interruption. YouTube Channel with 17k+ Subscribers plus various other roles

JADEN HUYNH: EDITOR

Hi, I’m J. I am a Visual Effects Artist and Animator. I’ve done a ton of work on YouTube. I will be editing this project of the wonderful vision of Director Alex De Bortoli.

TA’ZIYAH WATSON: ASSISTANT CAMERA

Hi I’m Ta’Ziyah Watson, a freelance filmmaker and photographer. I do camera Operating and 1st Assistant Camera work primarily in the film industry.

ASCENZO EQUIZI: GAFFA

Dynamic and skilled VFX and film professional with a solid foundation in 3D modelling, composition, and technical on-set expertise. Currently pursuing a bachelor in film and television at Uni SA, bringing hands-on experience with industry-standard tools like Autodesk Maya, Nuke, Adobe After Effects, and Unreal Engine. Known for delivering high-quality visuals and collaborating across departments in cinematography, sound, and lighting for short films. Eager to leverage a blend of technical and creative skills in both post-production and live-action environments to contribute to innovative storytelling.