Short · 2010

M.O.A.A: MISSION OF AN ANDROID

Drama · Sci-Fi · War · IMDb

"Feelings Can Change Everything"



Summary

In Mission of an Android, Reddick, a first-generation android who was part of a secret U.S. military project, attempts to live a normal life after deserting the war. His body glows with circuitry and he hides his identity from others, struggling with feelings of isolation and guilt. Sophy, a volunteer at a homeless shelter, forms an unlikely connection with him and slowly learns his secret. As their bond deepens, Reddick’s past and the dangers of being hunted by his own government resurface, leading to a confrontation with a deadly, upgraded android. The story explores themes of identity, redemption, and the struggle between humanity and technology.





Official Trailer

Behind the Scenes

by alma dominguez

Robots

I’ve been called many things in my life, a monster, a freak, and a reject. All could be considered accurate descriptions of me. While most of you run from solitude, I seek it out. I hide in its cold shelter and breathe in its dead air. I find life here. Odd, you may think but I would beg to differ. After all isn’t being lonely part of being human? I do not deny that I am a monster. I do not deny that I walk your streets at night and search for human life to take. I never have to search for long; it’s so easy when you are as I am. When you move as fast as I do. I am faster and stronger than even the fastest and strongest of you. Before we move on, I should explain that I am not the monster you think I am. I am not your famous Count Dracula, or the vampire Lestat, and I am certainly no Edward Cullen. No, I am not a pretend creature that drinks blood and romances women. I am a man; an ordinary man. At least I like to think so. There are those who think they about know about me. I sit with them in bars and cafes and listen as they discuss the Great War of 2010. They talk from their conspiracy theory point of view about spies and cover-ups. Nothing peaks my interest more than classified government projects. Stories of Hound bomb, missals that could find a person by smell and chameleon planes are common.

Behind the Story

This is my first film. When I started college pursuing a film career my mom would say I'm going to be the next Spielberg. And I was always like, "Mom I'm studying Visual Effects", which is very different. But after working at a news station for two years I knew I wanted to do more than motion graphics. So I said out loud I want to be a film director. And after that, I started working on my first film. My wife, an avid reader, started brainstorming ideas. I knew I wanted to make a short film about an android who was programmed with the capability to have feelings. I didn't know how to write a screenplay so I wrote a short story, which I really didn't know how to write either. But I wrote four pages. What I didn't know is that my wife wrote a short paragraph on the subject. I also started to write four chapters of a novel. After I had all my writing complete I sent the idea/stories to a close relative who was proficient in screenwriting. After he wrote the first draft we then collaborated on adding some additional scenes and elements. When that was complete, I began casting and scouting locations. Where was I to start? I didn't have any film gear or really know anyone who can help me get started. I was doing some research at Barns and Noble and while I was in the film section and began a conversation with some random guy who's nephew was a film student specializing in cinematography. I met with him and we started working together. A set up a casting call at my alumni school. I set up some interviews. I contacted the film office in Fort Lauderdale to find out about permits, which I didn't need unless I got permission from the owner of the area I was filming at. So after the casting and locations were set I set up the shooting dates. My college became my assistant director, my wife, the food caterer/producer, and my brother-in-law, the transportation. Since this was my first production and the first time working as a director and working with people I didn't know it went okay. We filmed consistently for about two months off and on when we could. We took January and February off and picked them back up in March of 2010. The original cinematographer couldn't continue because he moved out of state. Another co-worker's boyfriend was into filming so I had asked if he can donate his time and he agreed. We filmed for one short day and the project was complete. After the project was complete I really didn't know what to do with it. It was really hard learning about film festivals. I found one and submitted it. Unfortunately, this project didn't go anywhere, but I've had a ton of people help me achieve my goal of making a short film. I had a small crew and cast during production and a separate crew in post-production. I couldn't be happier to have officially "started" a project. With every project how great it is, there's always something to be learned. This project gave me the courage and confidence to keep going.





Reviews

Analysis

Mission of an Android is a gripping and emotionally resonant sci-fi drama that masterfully blends action, heart, and philosophical depth. The screenplay introduces us to Reddick, a fugitive android grappling with his own evolving humanity in a world that fears and hunts him. The writers have crafted a compelling narrative that explores themes of identity, redemption, and the blurred lines between man and machine.

One of the standout elements of this screenplay is its richly developed characters. Reddick is a fascinating protagonist, torn between his programmed purpose and his desire to experience a life beyond war. His relationship with Sophy is beautifully written, offering a touching and heartfelt counterbalance to the high-stakes tension. Their bond feels genuine and serves as the emotional core of the story.

The world-building is immersive, painting a bleak yet believable vision of a post-apocalyptic society struggling to rise from the ashes of destruction. The action sequences are intense and cinematic, particularly the climactic battle between Reddick and the formidable Conrack. Every confrontation feels earned, and the stakes are consistently high, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.

Beyond the action and sci-fi elements, Mission of an Android raises thought-provoking questions about autonomy, humanity, and the ethics of artificial intelligence. The screenplay does an excellent job of balancing thrilling entertainment with deep, existential themes, making it a standout in the genre.

Overall, Mission of an Android is a captivating and well-crafted screenplay that has the potential to be a groundbreaking film. With its strong character development, compelling narrative, and thought-provoking themes, it is a must-read for sci-fi enthusiasts and cinephiles alike.