Lazarus

Shortfilm, 2026. Written and directed by Valeria Almada

In a dystopian future, there is no colour, and people lead a miserable existence, except for Lazarians - a group of brave rebels who defy dictatorship and dance their nights away in an attempt to escape into a brighter, more colourful world. Onyx is an artist who sees colour. Jax is reckless and depressed, and no amount of support, or love, from Onyx seems to ground him. Ander is Jax's older brother and quietly in love with Onyx. One night, Jax dies. It is possible to go to the land of the dead, strike a deal with Hades, and bring Jax back, but it is a journey one makes at their own risk. Onyx will do it, but she will need Ander's help.