It Means
the World
to Me
Written & Directed by Mike Ambs
Synopsis
In a sleepy midwest town, the phone rings in a young girl’s room. The two friends share secrets, songs, and the anxieties of being thirteen. Her friend listens to everything. Remembers everything. Are we ready for what comes next?
Mood board reference images.
Project Overview
An 8-minute short film about a 13-year-old girl navigating friendship and technology in today's digital landscape. This is a follow-up to the short film Falling Forward, which was selected for Santa Barbara International Film Festival.
The film explores how AI companions are being marketed to young people, and what that looks like through the lens of an authentic teenage experience. Single location, naturalistic tone, character-driven.
Shoot Date: November 29th, 2025 (one day)
Location: Southeast Michigan
Festival Submission: Santa Barbara International Film Festival (December 3rd deadline)
Casting Call
Age: 12-14 years old
Ethnicity: Open
Sofia is a quiet, thoughtful middle-schooler who's figuring out friendships, crushes, and who she wants to be. She's creative, a bit shy, and navigating the complicated social world of eighth grade mostly from the safety of her bedroom.
What we're looking for
Natural, authentic performance (not "acting" - just being real)
Emotional availability and vulnerability
Comfortable carrying scenes solo
Able to find quiet, internal moments on camera
Experience: None required. We're looking for the right person, not the most experienced actor.
Parent/Guardian: Must be present on set. Full transparency about content and subject matter.
Audition Process
Self-Tape Submission
Please submit a self-tape by November 20th, 2025 to: [your email]
What to include:
Brief Introduction (30 seconds)
Your name, age, and a little bit about yourself
What interests you about this project
Scene Reading (2 minutes)
[Download audition sides here - PDF link]
Just be natural - we're looking for how you connect with the material
Parent/Guardian Contact
Include parent/guardian name, phone, and email in your submission
Technical notes:
Phone video is perfectly fine
Natural lighting, quiet room
No need for costume or props
Just you, the camera, and the words