Weglopers “Runaways” is the story of Robert (Lev Kiziltepe) and Frank (Thomas Puvill), who have been sex buddies for a few months. Robert has developed feelings for Frank, but Frank is reserved and emotionally distant. Robert knows that Frank has a younger and more attractive boyfriend named Daan (Olchert Molendijk), but he still believes he can win Frank over.
On his birthday, Robert cancels his plans with his friends to make a move and try to capture the attention of the alluring yet closed-off Frank. Frank’s inability to show affection and vulnerability only fuels Robert’s self-destructive behaviour. When Frank opens up a bit during their date, Robert begins to believe that there is room for him in Frank’s life. However, Robert will only find happiness if he learns to love himself enough to break free from the negative cycle in his relationships, starting with Frank.
Filmed in just three days, this short film offers a candid look at gay dating in Amsterdam. It’s made waves at major festivals like BFI Flare and The LGBTQ+ Film Festival Poland, and brought home wins from the Berlin Short Film Festival, Liftoff Amsterdam, and New Renaissance Film Festival. Supported by NL Film fonds, Weglopers (Runaways) is now available worldwide through distribution partners Cinemien and GagaOolala.
Directed by: Brandon Oelofse
Written and Produced by: Brandon Oelofse and Joseph Kearney
Cinematography and Edit by: German Martinez
Cast:
Frank – Thomas Puvill
Robert – Lev Kiziltepe
Daan – Olchert Molendijk
Shower Guy – Alberto Zatti
Crew:
Camera Assistant – Andrea Casetti
On Set Sound – Magda Lepczynska
Production Assistant – Rebecca Pini
Translation – Thomas Puvill
Sound Design – Sean Jeffris
Audio Post Facilities – Audiophile Post
Score – Franco Beceiro
Colourist – Fran Vervekken
Colour Facilities – Comfort and Fame
“Feels Like I’m Falling”
Composed by: Michael David Schneider, Johannes Spohr, Dennis Bauer, SaschaKeeler, Rudi Simon Hoppe
Performed by: Butch Voyage, Third Dimension featuring Rudi Simon