​​

The Apprentice was conceived as a visual and sonic collage.
In the opening sequence, images suggesting both memory fragments and dreams are layered to the breath of an oud. The sequence unfolded intuitively, not written but felt, its rhythm drawn from the core themes of Stuart Dybek’s original short story. These annotations trace the hidden currents beneath the imagery: 

the film’s opening movement grew from the uncle’s own paradox, part of the apprenticeship he imparts - his credo; “Everything’s real, nothing’s real.” 
 

This annotated screenplay presents only the opening sequence of the film.
It is the visual overture that establishes the overall themes.

​

​