Merald and Shaylyn, two skilled engineers, are part of a pioneering mission to the outer reaches of Earth’s solar system. When Shaylyn declines Merald’s invitation to dinner with his family, it seems like a trivial decision—until everything changes. A catastrophic failure in the Kepler drive triggers an emergency evacuation, and as chaos unfolds, Merald’s only thought is Shaylyn. Racing against time, he leads her back to his family, hoping to escape together—only to face unexpected betrayal. Forced to seek another way off the ship, they crash-land on a desolate moon, their fates entwined in a struggle for survival. With oxygen low and hope fading, Merald makes a choice that will define them both forever.
Director – Mayed Al Qasimi
Mayed Al Qasimi first developed his interest in film-making, at a young age, when he used to make short films on an old Panasonic camcorder. He is a producer and director known for Modificare (2016) and Somnium (2018). He resides in London where he focuses on developing scripts in the genre of hard science fiction.
Director Commentary
I set out to build a world where the protagonist’s choices reflect the profound human dilemmas of love over wealth and acceptance of death over the anguish of loss. At its core, the story carries a philosophical metaphor: the spaceship symbolizes the protagonist’s body, and the Kepler drive represents their heart—an engine of both emotion and life. The film was an ambitious endeavor, shot entirely over seven days within the confines of a large studio. Multiple sets were built and ingeniously recycled during rest days to accommodate the evolving narrative, presenting significant logistical challenges that demanded precision and ingenuity from our team. The climactic final scene pushed the boundaries of technical filmmaking. From a meticulously constructed rotating escape pod to the surreal, all-black Enceladus sequence, every detail was thoughtfully executed. The black carpet was wetted to smooth out wrinkles, and 10-meter-high curtains were erected to block out the studio, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. These elements came to life through extensive grading sessions and a steadfast commitment to the film’s visual identity. Ultimately, Eximo is a dramatic ode to love and sacrifice, dedicated to my wife—my constant inspiration—and to the enduring bond we share as parents to our little twins. This film stands as a testament to the depths of human connection and the beauty of choosing love, no matter the cost.