Exploring the Visual Storytelling of Kite: A Short Film from Shanghai
- Olivier hero
- Jul 16
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 2
At Studio Supreme Films, we proudly revisit 'Kite,' a compelling short film from Shanghai, China, in 2019. This self-produced project holds a special place in my filmmaking journey. I took on dual roles as Director and Executive Producer, making 'Kite' a significant chapter in exploring visual narratives and the collaborative spirit defining our work.
The Vision Behind 'Kite'
In 2019, I created 'Kite,' a self-produced short film, driven by a desire to explore specific narrative and aesthetic ideas. My involvement as both Director and Executive Producer allowed a singular vision to guide the project from inception. This hands-on approach ensured decisions aligned with core artistic intent, fostering a personal filmmaking experience.
The bustling metropolis of Shanghai, China, served as the evocative backdrop for 'Kite.' Its unique blend of tradition and modernity offered rich visual possibilities, complementing the film's thematic undertones. The city became a character, influencing the narrative's mood and atmosphere, adding depth and authenticity.
Crafting a Short Film in Shanghai
The production of 'Kite short film Shanghai' was a testament to independent filmmaking, being entirely self-produced. As Executive Producer, I managed resources, timelines, and creative aspirations, gaining invaluable experience. This autonomy allowed significant creative freedom, enabling us to experiment and push boundaries without external constraints.
Choosing the short film format for 'Kite' was deliberate, allowing focused storytelling and intense character exploration within a concise timeframe. This project type offers a powerful platform for filmmakers to hone their craft and experiment. 'Kite' served as an important exercise in narrative economy, proving impactful stories resonate without feature-length runtimes.
Looking Back and Moving Forward
Reflecting on 'Kite,' the project remains a cornerstone of my directorial portfolio and a foundational piece for Studio Supreme Films. It solidified my understanding of the production cycle, from concept to delivery, reinforcing meticulous planning in independent cinema. This experience directly informs our subsequent ventures and international collaborations.
At Studio Supreme Films, we continually build upon experiences from projects like 'Kite' as we pursue development news and international co-productions. The lessons learned in Shanghai inspire our approach to storytelling across diverse cultures and landscapes, embodying our commitment to innovative filmmaking. This short film exemplifies our dedication to crafting compelling visual narratives.
A festival journey: 20 wins and counting
Since its release, Kite has built one of the strongest festival records in our catalog: 20 wins and more than 50 nominations across international festivals. The latest chapter came in 2026, when Kite won the 11th Annual Stage 32 Short Film Contest.
That victory carries special weight for us: it makes our director, Olivier Hero Dressen a three-time Stage 32 winner, after The Passport in 2019 and The Black Box, which took the Grand Prize in 2023. Three different films, three wins at one of the industry's most respected script-to-screen communities. For a studio built on independent storytelling, that consistency is the proof we care about most.
A story from set
One of the wildest things in this film was the weather. The story spans almost in real time for most of it, a long, continuous scene between our two leads, but the reality between that scene was quite wild. 70 Km winds, rain, and finally sunshine; that was the harsh reality of our shooting on our island. Imagine shooting while the wind is blasting at such a dangerous speed while you are actually on a cliff... But in the end, it all went well, and everything happens for a reason, as the different and dramatic weather changes actually worked for the story! I also added this video where we actually interviewed the whole team of Kite! here:
FAQ: Kite Short Film Production Insights
What is 'Kite' and when was it produced?
'Kite' is a compelling short film I directed and executive produced in 2019. This self-produced project, set in Shanghai, China, showcases focused visual storytelling. It contributed significantly to my filmmaking journey and Studio Supreme Films' portfolio, exploring narrative within a concise format.
What was my specific role in the 'Kite' project?
For 'Kite,' I served as both Director and Executive Producer, overseeing creative vision and logistical execution. This dual role allowed cohesive artistic direction and hands-on management. It ensured the successful completion of this self-produced short film, making it a deeply personal creative endeavor.
Where was the 'Kite' short film primarily filmed?
The 'Kite' short film was primarily filmed in Shanghai, China, a vibrant location that deeply influenced its visual storytelling and atmosphere. The city's unique character provided a rich backdrop, becoming an integral part of the film's narrative and aesthetic, enriching the overall production.
How did 'Kite' contribute to Studio Supreme Films' development?
'Kite' significantly contributed to Studio Supreme Films' development by demonstrating our capacity for self-produced, high-quality visual storytelling. It provided invaluable experience in independent filmmaking, refining our approach to narrative and production management, which continues to inform our international co-productions and future projects.
Discover more about our film projects and international co-productions by exploring the Studio Supreme Films website.
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