In the Wake TV Producers Shayna and Julia discuss Azi's Revenge, a gripping 14-minute short film that proves you don't need feature length to deliver a knockout punch. Directed by Montana Mann, the film follows 17-year-old Azi during a weekend vacation with her best friend's family—where an unexpected game with another guest spirals into something far more intense.

When Games Get Serious: Shayna and Julia unpack how Azi's Revenge takes a seemingly innocent premise—a weekend getaway, a casual game—and transforms it into a tense exploration of power, boundaries, and what happens when social dynamics shift in uncomfortable ways. At just 14 minutes, the film wastes no time establishing stakes, building tension, and delivering a payoff that lingers long after the credits roll. It's a masterclass in short-form storytelling that understands how to use every frame.

Why This Matters: Short films like Azi's Revenge remind us that impactful storytelling doesn't require sprawling runtimes or massive budgets. For young filmmakers and emerging voices—especially women directors like Montana Mann—shorts are proving grounds where bold ideas, tight scripts, and strong performances can create unforgettable cinema. The film also centers a young woman's perspective and agency in a situation where both are tested, offering a narrative that feels urgent and necessary.

Watch the full conversation as Shayna and Julia celebrate Azi's Revenge's sharp storytelling, discuss what makes a great short film, and why this 14-minute gem is a must-watch from Sundance 2024.

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