International momentum builds as the performance-driven drama enters awards competition in Madrid
(PRUnderground) January 19th, 2026
Starry Eyed, an emotionally grounded, performance-led drama produced by Universe Pictures, Wonder Pictures, BigShave Pictures, and Astralis Films, has been officially selected for competition at the Madrid Film Awards (MADFA), an IMDb-qualifying festival supporting IMDb recognition and international discovery.
The film now advances into awards consideration, with official nominations set to be announced in February 2026, followed by a live awards ceremony on May 30, 2026, at the Gran Vía Press Palace in Madrid, Spain.
Directed by Carlo Molle, Starry Eyed is a performance-driven short anchored by character, emotional precision, and psychological tension. A character-first short, it builds pressure through what’s left unsaid. Performance is led by Olivia Bortolazzo, whose work has already earned international recognition, including a Best Actress win at the Red Movie Awards in France.
“Starry Eyed was built on restraint and trust,” said Carlo Molle, Director. “The film doesn’t announce itself; it lingers. That MADFA connected with its tone and precision tells me the film is landing where it’s meant to.”
“Madrid Film Awards is a meaningful platform for films that lead with intelligence and emotional discipline,” said Jaze Bordeaux, Executive Producer, Universe Pictures. “This selection reflects the strength of the collaboration behind the film, and the caliber of the work on screen.”
Starry Eyed is produced by Jaze Bordeaux, Ilham Aragrag, Jason Romolo, and Carlo Molle.
The Madrid Film Awards is an IMDb-qualifying international festival recognized for spotlighting emerging filmmakers and globally resonant independent cinema.
Press Kit
Press materials are available at starryeyedmovie.com
Cinema that disrupts conformity. Stories that think. Emotion meets intellect.
About Universe Pictures
Universe Pictures is a film studio focused on developing and producing intelligent, emotionally grounded cinema with global reach. Under the leadership of Executive Producer Jaze Bordeaux, the company operates at the intersection of storytelling, strategy, and scalecreating projects that balance artistic ambition with commercial viability.
With a growing slate that spans award-recognized features and high-concept theatrical films, Universe Pictures is committed to building long-term value through strong creative leadership, disciplined production, and strategic market positioning. The studio prioritizes projects that challenge convention, explore human resilience, and resonate across cultures, while remaining designed for festival play, distribution, and international audiences.
Universe Pictures collaborates with filmmakers, financiers, and partners worldwide, positioning each release for visibility, credibility, and sustained momentum within the global film ecosystem.
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Original Press Release.
