A film by Christopher Julian & Ian Stone - 36 min, 2023

Logline

Derek is just a normal American teen, doing normal teenage things — like chatting with spirits and assembling a plan to shoot up his school. It's Monday, and the countdown is on for him to put his plan into motion by Friday.

Synopsis

Derek is a bullied high school kid, with uncomfortable relationships with his divorced parents. Filled with a pent-up rage, he spends all of his spare time concocting an elaborate plan to shoot up his school, bring down his so-called enemies, and take himself out at the end. During this intense planning period, he engages in conversation with a character he believes to be the devil. But these conversations twist and turn in directions he doesn't expect, and he begins to question his understanding of everything. When the day comes for him to stick to his plan, will he go through with it?

About the Film

Diabolos takes a unique look at two weighty topics: school shootings and bullying. This brave, candid film explores rage and personal choices through a metaphysical angle. It’s neither pro- nor anti-gun, but still tragically relevant in today’s culture, and will spark discussion and introspection.
The film was shot in 2019, just before the pandemic, and completed in 2023. Both filmmakers had been bullied as children, and their personal experiences played heavily into the writing and directing of the work.

Featuring music by Maklak and an original score by Catherine Joy.

Videos

The Trailer (1.5 min)

The Full Film (36 min)

Original Fundraising Video (5 min)

published in 2019 on Seed & Spark

Behind the Scenes & Bloopers (5 min)

The Cast

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Gavin Michaels - Derek

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Eric Smiley - The Guide

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Michelle Flowers - Mom

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Michael Vincent - Dad

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Marquis Julian Hill - Jake

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Alex Lichtenhan - Garreth

About the Filmmakers

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Christopher Julian

Filmmaker Chris Julian grew up in New York State, but has lived and worked in Seattle, Washington since 2008. He earns his living as a freelance video editor, visual effects artist, & camera operator, and also works as a swim instructor and personal trainer. He pursues works in countless other art forms, including songwriting, painting, photography and woodworking. Visit Christopher Julian Digitalworks to learn more.

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Ian Stone

Ian Stone was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest. Originally starting as a theater actor, he has been writing and directing independent short films since 2005. You can also see him perform burlesque as Perver Hero, and sketch comedy with the group "Stronger than Love."

Contact

Need to get in touch with us? Questions about the film? Screenings & presentations?

Christopher Julian
Call Us

607-351-2470

Address

chris@christopherjulian.com