In a desperate attempt to fit in with a group of socialites an insecure twenty-something commits to getting a vasectomy, but soon finds himself in a dangerous world of escalating virtue signaling.
“Inclusive Space,” directed by Sophia Conger, takes viewers on a wild, satirical ride through the bizarre world of social elitism and virtue signaling. The film centers on an insecure twenty-something who, in a desperate bid to fit in with a group of exclusive socialites, makes the drastic decision to undergo a vasectomy. As the story unfolds, he finds himself caught in a web of escalating demands and increasingly absurd situations, all in the name of fitting in.
The film expertly balances humor and tension, with a tone that gradually intensifies as the narrative progresses. “Inclusive Space” is a clever, boundary-pushing commentary on the lengths people will go to for acceptance, keeping the audience entertained and engaged from start to finish.
The film tackles the theme of social conformity and the absurd lengths people may go to fit in. What inspired you to explore this topic?
Living in New York City one is constantly exposed to all walks of life, whether it be a homeless person on the sidewalk or the billionaire who accidentally bumped into you while staring at said homeless person. People are just generally trying to get by in one of the tightest cities in the world and no one is satisfied with where they are in life (some more justified than others). There’s an inherent comedy and absurdity to that dynamic and worrying about such ultimately minute things.
Satirical comedy often provides a platform to critique societal norms and behaviors. How did you approach balancing humor with the serious underlying themes of the film?
While we’re always trying to make each other laugh, we never sacrifice story and character for a cheap joke. Every choice we make as creatives is ultimately made to keep the story moving along. We cut some of our favorite jokes out of the film for story’s sake and we’re still in mourning about it. Maybe we’ll post them on social media at some point.
The protagonist’s decision to get a vasectomy in order to fit in with a group of socialites is both extreme and absurd. What message or commentary were you hoping to convey through this storyline?
We were channeling the classic cautionary tale of someone seeing the grass being greener on the other side and getting more than what they bargained for when they cross over. Ultimately we’re trying to show that trying to rise within the system is not the path to salvation, but rather breaking the system is what needs to be done, symbolized absurdly by Nate throwing the burger at Corrina in tthe final act.
The title, “Inclusive Space,” suggests a space where everyone is welcome and accepted. How does the film challenge or subvert this notion, and what insights do you hope viewers will gain from watching it?
The idea is that performative activism across the political aisle among the upper class is absurd. There are many claims that all are welcome and yet many groups who claim to be inclusive will immediately shut down anyone who doesn’t share their same political beliefs, therefore creating echo chambers like what we have in this film where no one is allowed to have a real conversation or question one another. We want viewers to look inward and really ask themselves do they believe that they hold an inclusive space within their hearts or are they no different than the socialites within the film.
The comedy genre often relies on exaggeration and caricature. How did you approach developing the characters and situations in the film to maximize comedic impact while maintaining authenticity?
We took from real life and from real people we’ve encountered. I like to think that all the characters in the movie have rich inner lives outside of the party… we’re just seeing them at their most insufferable, fighting over clout and being seen
The concept of fitting in and seeking validation from others is a universal theme. What do you hope audiences will take away from the film’s exploration of these themes?
That it is important to fit in to some extent, but never at the cost of losing one’s self or their values.
Can you share any memorable or particularly absurd moments from the filming process?
Getting the Burger to fall off Corrina’s face at the last moment was fun movie making magic.
Satire can sometimes spark controversy or debate. Were there any challenges or concerns you faced while creating a film that satirizes such a sensitive topic?
We definitely went too far in certain directions in earlier drafts (we won’t share them here) which thankfully our collaborators helped us dial back. I think our ultimate takeaway is to trust the people you work with and to not be precious about a single thing within the storytelling process.
Are there any films specifically that inspired this film? Either thematically or visually?
And finally, can you tell us which are your favorite short films?
We absolutely love what Almost Friday TV has done with comedy short film format. Some highlights include:
How it Feels scrolling through Netflix Top 10
One beer then I’m going home.Other films we love:
What People Burn to stay Warm (Calyssa Lavery & Sam Lasiter)
The Hatchling (Tim Cianfano)
Help I’m smiling (Marcus Fahey)
Inland empire (Zane Rubin)
