For filmmaker Miguel Nieto Montenegro, making 'Unseen' is a step towards fulfilling a promise he made himself in 2016.
For Miguel Nieto Montenegro, making his new film Unseen in 2025 will be a labour of love.
An experienced filmmaker and director originally from Columbia, Miguel is the producer, writer and director of Unseen, set to be a 10-15 minute film focused on human trafficking and modern-day labour exploitation. It will tell the story of Sara, a young Thai woman sold into slavery and abuse, trapped in appalling working and living conditions, fighting to hold onto her humanity.
Speaking to us about the project, Miguel said the subject was deeply personal, and he had a vision to create a film “that resonates with survivors and portrays their experiences with sensitivity and respect.”
“I first learned about human trafficking in 2016 when a friend shared horrifying stories of people trapped in this nightmare,” Miguel said.
“Back then—long before I even considered becoming a filmmaker—I made a promise to myself to do something to fight against it. Through this short film, I’m taking a step toward fulfilling that promise.
“With at least 40 million people living in modern slavery worldwide, even in a country as privileged as Australia, where an estimated 40,000 people endure these conditions, this issue is not confined to distant places. It’s happening everywhere.”
Production is set to begin in January, with a cast and crew now being assembled. With a budget of $30-35,000, Miguel has launched a crowdfund page on Indiegogo to help fund the film, with 20% already raised through his own network and from his own funds.
In this short video Miguel explains his heart behind the project.
Miguel is a part of the CMAA Arts community.