A DEAL IN LIBERTY
Toronto, Canada | Film Short
Drama, Crime
Undercover state trooper Fitz Fitzpatrick is assigned to a criminal exchange opposite two mob-tied outlaws, Esmerelda Esposito and Shelly Shepard. Unexpectedly forced to wrestle with truths that challenge his ethics and entire worldview, Fitz must determine where his allegiances truly lie.
A DEAL IN LIBERTY
Toronto, Canada | Film Short
Drama, Crime
1 Campaigns | Ontario, Canada
Green Light
This campaign raised C$16,275 for development. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
44 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
Undercover state trooper Fitz Fitzpatrick is assigned to a criminal exchange opposite two mob-tied outlaws, Esmerelda Esposito and Shelly Shepard. Unexpectedly forced to wrestle with truths that challenge his ethics and entire worldview, Fitz must determine where his allegiances truly lie.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Years ago. Dead of winter. Cigarette smoke and uncertainty hangs heavy in the air of a small town diner a hundred miles north of Manhattan. The delicate balance between good and evil wanes as undercover operative Fitz Fitzpatrick enters… A DEAL IN LIBERTY.
The once clear lines between right and wrong, justice, and allegiance begin to deteriorate for Fitz as the diner becomes the rendezvous for him and two criminals, Esmerelda Esposito and Shelly Shepard. It is evident that none of the three individuals will leave the same as they were when they arrived; but as guns are suddenly drawn - will anyone be leaving?
Coming to life in 2025 from independent filmmaker PALMER WELLS (To Whom It May Concern, Crossfire!), a dramatic short film where onscreen tensions rise and culminate into a fierce confrontation with dire consequences. Crime, justice, betrayal and loyalty clash head on as realties wane and unlikely allegiances form. Irreconcilable truths will come to light under the dark and snowy sky of Liberty, New York.
The film stars DANIEL GRAVELLE (Hell of a Summer, We Forgot to Break Up) as the rugged and righteous Fitz Fitzpatrick, novice in covert operations, but highly resourceful and adaptable. Playing captive yet obedient partners inside an elusive underground crime ring are CHRISTINA ORJALO (Deathstalker, Two Sentence Horror Stories) as Esmerelda Esposito and SAMANTHA AUCOIN (Astrid and Lilly Save the World, Tales From the Void) as Shelly Shepard - two dangerous, head-strong young women looking for nothing more than success in the town of Liberty. Rounding out the cast is JORDAN DAWSON (We Forgot to Break Up, A Song for William Bird) and AYAKA WILSON (Hibiki, Story Game).
The privilege of writing and directing a short film is not lost on me. To have such a talented group of people offer up their remarkable skills and experience is a humbling and gratifying experience, one I am incredibly grateful for.
I wrote a story about lonely people, disillusioned with their dangerous institutions. Although we find our characters in unique situations, they're still human beings, experiencing the same things we all experience. Constantly in search of something more. Seeking truth and meaning in a cold and cruel word. A connection they can truly believe in and buy into, because we all know how easy it is to become complicit in undesirable situations. These are the themes that simmer underneath the surface of A Deal in Liberty.
While our number one priority is providing quality entertainment for our audience, this short film will also attempt to communicate the importance of following your gut and not underestimating the human capacity for empathy and compassion. It’s universal. It’s everywhere. And it’s certainly present in the unique relationships to be found on a cold, winter night in Liberty, New York. We’d love to have you come aboard as a sponsor and help bring this vision to life! Thank you for your support.
- Palmer Wells
Above: images capturing the colours, mood, and angles similar to what we are looking to achieve in the diner scenes.
Below: images capturing the vibe and space we are looking to achieve in the headquarters of our antagonist.
CAST:
Fitz Fitzpatrick: Daniel Gravelle
Esmerelda Esposito: Christina Orjalo
Shelly Shepard: Samantha Aucoin
Captain Houlihan: Jordan Dawson
Kyoko Kai: Ayaka Wilson
CREW:
Director/Writer/Producer: Palmer Wells
Executive Producers: Daniel Gravelle, Christina Orjalo, Samantha Aucoin
Director of Photography: Ash Tailor
Assistant Camera: Jordan Dawson
1st AD: Steven Griffin
Sound: James Hoban
Props: Anna Villeneuve
G+E: Adam Rakic
(See more under the "Team" tab)
Pre-production for the film began in November 2024 with the assembling of the cast and crew, scheduling, and securing locations.
Presently, the team is working on other pre-production elements such as securing costumes, gathering camera and lighting equipment, rehearsing, and more. They will go to camera in February 2025, filming over two days at two locations - the first: at our diner/Burger Shack in Toronto, and the second in a professional space serving as the Captain's office/Kyoko Kai's lair.
With a goal of raising 20k over our 45 day campaign, the producers have allocated the following percentages for different departments (graph below). Whether applied to pre-production efforts, on-location filming, or post-production final touches, your contribution will go directly to funding this story! Check out our suggested sponsor levels (image right) for cool incentives. All levels will include receiving perks from lower incentive levels - for example, if you sponsor at the Ambassador level, you'll receive all the incentives from the Patron, Supporter, and Ambassador levels!
Stay updated on all steps of the creation process and feel free to contribute to show your support. Any contribution amount is greatly appreciated:)
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Hair and Make Up
Costs C$160
Contribute directly to Hair & Make Up to ensure our cast will look the part and shine on camera (in performance, not in an oily way)!
Production Design
Costs C$7,200
Help our team build our world by contributing to the production design! A police captain's office is priority number one!
Equipment
Costs C$4,000
Contribute directly to the crew to help give them access to crucial lighting and sound equipment!
Production Labour
Costs C$4,160
Contribute directly to supporting the cast and crew's time and talent while making this film!
Post-Production
Costs C$2,960
The work isn't finished when filming is done! Contribute directly to post-production - editing, colouring, original music, and more!
Pre-Production
Costs C$480
Mountains of work goes into getting a production onto it's feet - support our hard working producers secure permits, locations, and more!
Craft
Costs C$640
Help fuel the efforts (and the stomachs) of the team - by contributing to craft!
Wardrobe
Costs C$400
From officers to outlaws, help support the outfitting of our actors in perfect character costumes! Badges, cowboy hats, bolo ties and more!
Cash Pledge
Costs C$0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
PALMER WELLS
Director, Writer, Producer
Southern Ontario native Palmer Wells has been writing and directing short and long form films since 2020 through his production company Well Done Films, Inc., primarily fostering and surrounding the most universal spectacle of them all: honest human experience. An alumni of Wilfrid Laurier University and Vancouver Film School, his VFS-affiliated 2023 short film Crossfire!, which emulates classic film noir, was selected for film festivals in three continents across the globe.
DANIEL GRAVELLE
Actor, Executive Producer
Daniel Gravelle is an actor, director, and producer known for his performances in productions such as Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, Hell of a Summer, and We Forgot to Breakup. His career also includes appearances in Fahrenheit 451, Scary Stories To Tell In The Dark, and the recent television series Gen V. Gravelle’s diverse performances showcase his range across sci-fi, drama, and horror genres.
CHRISTINA ORJALO
Actor, Executive Producer
Christina is a multidisciplinary, multiracial Toronto-based artist. She is a graduate of the UFT/Sheridan College's Theatre and Drama Studies, with nearly two decades of professional experience in film and television. Select past credits include: Astrid and Lilly Save the World, Two Sentence Horror Stories, and Murdoch Mysteries. In 2025, she's set to appear in much anticipated projects such as Deathstalker, Saint Pierre, and more (TBA).
SAMANTHA AUCOIN
Actor, Executive Producer
Samantha Aucoin, a Toronto-Based actor and musician, is best known for her debut role as Lilly Fortenberry in the NBC SYFY TV series Astrid and Lilly Save the World. This series ignited Samantha’s passion in for on-screen acting and has led her to land other notable works such as her role in the Prime Video/Scream Box anthology series titled Tales from the Void, the film The Adventures of Tikki the Wonder Dog, the Netflix TV Series Ginny & Georgia, and more. This is Samantha’s debut as an Executive Producer and she is thrilled to be contributing behind the scenes and aspires to continue producing future productions.
JORDAN DAWSON
Actor, AC
Jordan Dawson, a Toronto-based artist, traces his journey from the small town of Harrowsmith Ontario to the vibrant cityscape. Initially faced with the prospect of a blue-collar quiet lifestyle, he made a decision to follow his artistic aspirations. Fueled by many tired nights seated in front of a television screen and the wanting desire to be a part of the worlds being presented to him. Pursuing his passion for film, he enrolled in Queen's University to study the intricacies of the craft. An established actor, director, writer, and more - select performance credits include: A Song for William Bird, We Forgot to Break Up, and Pretty Hard Cases.
AYAKA WILSON
Actor
Ayaka Wilson is a dynamic and accomplished actor whose professional experience and contagious passion traverses the globe. Between Japan and Canada, Ayaka is recognized for her drive, authenticity, and ambition. She made her mark with a groundbreaking performance in Paco and the Magical Book, becoming the youngest-ever recipient of the Japan Academy Award’s ‘Newcomer of the Year.’ Other notable roles include: Hibiki: Shōsetsuka ni Naru Hōhō and Piple: AI to Kekkon Seikatsu Hajimemashita.
ASH TAILOR
DP
Ash Tailor is a Canadian based British Director of Photography with a simple goal: to help tell stories through the camera. With experience on a variety of projects, Ash works closely with directors and crews to support the vision of the film, focusing on lighting and composition to enhance the narrative. Whether it's a small indie project or a larger production, he approaches each job with a collaborative spirit, always learning and adapting along the way. Ash is committed to ensuring the visuals serve the story, believing that the best results come from quiet, careful work behind the scenes.
STEVEN GRIFFIN
1st Assistant Director
Steven Paul Griffin is a Toronto-based 1st Assistant Director. Having been a part of the DGC for the past four years, he has worked on some of the largest shows in the city as an Assistant Director, including Cross, Reacher, Handmaid's Tale, and more. As an independent 1st AD, he's worked with many young writers and directors on feature film and short-form projects. Outside of Assistant Directing, Steven is also a writer/director in his own write, with multiple short films having screened domestically and internationally. Steven is very excited to join another group of dedicated and talented filmmakers that fill out the Liberty team.
JAMES HOBAN
Sound
James dates his love for filmmaking back to the age of nine when he would create small Lego stop motion shorts and post them on Youtube. Today, he is lucky enough to utilize his knowledge both in front and behind the camera on a number of original projects. Ranging from commercials to feature films, James' experience is multifaceted and versatile. He is grateful to have the opportunity to work on A Deal in Liberty with an array of wonderful talents and amazing friends.
ANNA VILLENEUVE
Props
Anna Villeneuve is a multi-disciplinary artist with her roots in theatre. Actor, writer, and founder of 6 AM Productions - a company that specializes in digital and devised theatre - she is excited to bring her artistic experiences and explore the world of filmmaking in a new role.
ADAM RAKIC
G+E
As an alumni of film programs through Wilfrid Laurier University and Vancouver Film School, Adam has been honing his skills on film sets since 2021. Seasoned in grip, electric, camera and production design departments, Adam has become a Swiss Army knife of skills on each set he touches. In 2022, he combined his talents as the writer and director of the VFS-affiliated short film Italian After All.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Years ago. Dead of winter. Cigarette smoke and uncertainty hangs heavy in the air of a small town diner a hundred miles north of Manhattan. The delicate balance between good and evil wanes as undercover operative Fitz Fitzpatrick enters… A DEAL IN LIBERTY.
The once clear lines between right and wrong, justice, and allegiance begin to deteriorate for Fitz as the diner becomes the rendezvous for him and two criminals, Esmerelda Esposito and Shelly Shepard. It is evident that none of the three individuals will leave the same as they were when they arrived; but as guns are suddenly drawn - will anyone be leaving?
Coming to life in 2025 from independent filmmaker PALMER WELLS (To Whom It May Concern, Crossfire!), a dramatic short film where onscreen tensions rise and culminate into a fierce confrontation with dire consequences. Crime, justice, betrayal and loyalty clash head on as realties wane and unlikely allegiances form. Irreconcilable truths will come to light under the dark and snowy sky of Liberty, New York.
The film stars DANIEL GRAVELLE (Hell of a Summer, We Forgot to Break Up) as the rugged and righteous Fitz Fitzpatrick, novice in covert operations, but highly resourceful and adaptable. Playing captive yet obedient partners inside an elusive underground crime ring are CHRISTINA ORJALO (Deathstalker, Two Sentence Horror Stories) as Esmerelda Esposito and SAMANTHA AUCOIN (Astrid and Lilly Save the World, Tales From the Void) as Shelly Shepard - two dangerous, head-strong young women looking for nothing more than success in the town of Liberty. Rounding out the cast is JORDAN DAWSON (We Forgot to Break Up, A Song for William Bird) and AYAKA WILSON (Hibiki, Story Game).
The privilege of writing and directing a short film is not lost on me. To have such a talented group of people offer up their remarkable skills and experience is a humbling and gratifying experience, one I am incredibly grateful for.
I wrote a story about lonely people, disillusioned with their dangerous institutions. Although we find our characters in unique situations, they're still human beings, experiencing the same things we all experience. Constantly in search of something more. Seeking truth and meaning in a cold and cruel word. A connection they can truly believe in and buy into, because we all know how easy it is to become complicit in undesirable situations. These are the themes that simmer underneath the surface of A Deal in Liberty.
While our number one priority is providing quality entertainment for our audience, this short film will also attempt to communicate the importance of following your gut and not underestimating the human capacity for empathy and compassion. It’s universal. It’s everywhere. And it’s certainly present in the unique relationships to be found on a cold, winter night in Liberty, New York. We’d love to have you come aboard as a sponsor and help bring this vision to life! Thank you for your support.
- Palmer Wells
Above: images capturing the colours, mood, and angles similar to what we are looking to achieve in the diner scenes.
Below: images capturing the vibe and space we are looking to achieve in the headquarters of our antagonist.
CAST:
Fitz Fitzpatrick: Daniel Gravelle
Esmerelda Esposito: Christina Orjalo
Shelly Shepard: Samantha Aucoin
Captain Houlihan: Jordan Dawson
Kyoko Kai: Ayaka Wilson
CREW:
Director/Writer/Producer: Palmer Wells
Executive Producers: Daniel Gravelle, Christina Orjalo, Samantha Aucoin
Director of Photography: Ash Tailor
Assistant Camera: Jordan Dawson
1st AD: Steven Griffin
Sound: James Hoban
Props: Anna Villeneuve
G+E: Adam Rakic
(See more under the "Team" tab)
Pre-production for the film began in November 2024 with the assembling of the cast and crew, scheduling, and securing locations.
Presently, the team is working on other pre-production elements such as securing costumes, gathering camera and lighting equipment, rehearsing, and more. They will go to camera in February 2025, filming over two days at two locations - the first: at our diner/Burger Shack in Toronto, and the second in a professional space serving as the Captain's office/Kyoko Kai's lair.
With a goal of raising 20k over our 45 day campaign, the producers have allocated the following percentages for different departments (graph below). Whether applied to pre-production efforts, on-location filming, or post-production final touches, your contribution will go directly to funding this story! Check out our suggested sponsor levels (image right) for cool incentives. All levels will include receiving perks from lower incentive levels - for example, if you sponsor at the Ambassador level, you'll receive all the incentives from the Patron, Supporter, and Ambassador levels!
Stay updated on all steps of the creation process and feel free to contribute to show your support. Any contribution amount is greatly appreciated:)
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Hair and Make Up
Costs C$160
Contribute directly to Hair & Make Up to ensure our cast will look the part and shine on camera (in performance, not in an oily way)!
Production Design
Costs C$7,200
Help our team build our world by contributing to the production design! A police captain's office is priority number one!
Equipment
Costs C$4,000
Contribute directly to the crew to help give them access to crucial lighting and sound equipment!
Production Labour
Costs C$4,160
Contribute directly to supporting the cast and crew's time and talent while making this film!
Post-Production
Costs C$2,960
The work isn't finished when filming is done! Contribute directly to post-production - editing, colouring, original music, and more!
Pre-Production
Costs C$480
Mountains of work goes into getting a production onto it's feet - support our hard working producers secure permits, locations, and more!
Craft
Costs C$640
Help fuel the efforts (and the stomachs) of the team - by contributing to craft!
Wardrobe
Costs C$400
From officers to outlaws, help support the outfitting of our actors in perfect character costumes! Badges, cowboy hats, bolo ties and more!
Cash Pledge
Costs C$0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
PALMER WELLS
Director, Writer, Producer
Southern Ontario native Palmer Wells has been writing and directing short and long form films since 2020 through his production company Well Done Films, Inc., primarily fostering and surrounding the most universal spectacle of them all: honest human experience. An alumni of Wilfrid Laurier University and Vancouver Film School, his VFS-affiliated 2023 short film Crossfire!, which emulates classic film noir, was selected for film festivals in three continents across the globe.
DANIEL GRAVELLE
Actor, Executive Producer
Daniel Gravelle is an actor, director, and producer known for his performances in productions such as Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, Hell of a Summer, and We Forgot to Breakup. His career also includes appearances in Fahrenheit 451, Scary Stories To Tell In The Dark, and the recent television series Gen V. Gravelle’s diverse performances showcase his range across sci-fi, drama, and horror genres.
CHRISTINA ORJALO
Actor, Executive Producer
Christina is a multidisciplinary, multiracial Toronto-based artist. She is a graduate of the UFT/Sheridan College's Theatre and Drama Studies, with nearly two decades of professional experience in film and television. Select past credits include: Astrid and Lilly Save the World, Two Sentence Horror Stories, and Murdoch Mysteries. In 2025, she's set to appear in much anticipated projects such as Deathstalker, Saint Pierre, and more (TBA).
SAMANTHA AUCOIN
Actor, Executive Producer
Samantha Aucoin, a Toronto-Based actor and musician, is best known for her debut role as Lilly Fortenberry in the NBC SYFY TV series Astrid and Lilly Save the World. This series ignited Samantha’s passion in for on-screen acting and has led her to land other notable works such as her role in the Prime Video/Scream Box anthology series titled Tales from the Void, the film The Adventures of Tikki the Wonder Dog, the Netflix TV Series Ginny & Georgia, and more. This is Samantha’s debut as an Executive Producer and she is thrilled to be contributing behind the scenes and aspires to continue producing future productions.
JORDAN DAWSON
Actor, AC
Jordan Dawson, a Toronto-based artist, traces his journey from the small town of Harrowsmith Ontario to the vibrant cityscape. Initially faced with the prospect of a blue-collar quiet lifestyle, he made a decision to follow his artistic aspirations. Fueled by many tired nights seated in front of a television screen and the wanting desire to be a part of the worlds being presented to him. Pursuing his passion for film, he enrolled in Queen's University to study the intricacies of the craft. An established actor, director, writer, and more - select performance credits include: A Song for William Bird, We Forgot to Break Up, and Pretty Hard Cases.
AYAKA WILSON
Actor
Ayaka Wilson is a dynamic and accomplished actor whose professional experience and contagious passion traverses the globe. Between Japan and Canada, Ayaka is recognized for her drive, authenticity, and ambition. She made her mark with a groundbreaking performance in Paco and the Magical Book, becoming the youngest-ever recipient of the Japan Academy Award’s ‘Newcomer of the Year.’ Other notable roles include: Hibiki: Shōsetsuka ni Naru Hōhō and Piple: AI to Kekkon Seikatsu Hajimemashita.
ASH TAILOR
DP
Ash Tailor is a Canadian based British Director of Photography with a simple goal: to help tell stories through the camera. With experience on a variety of projects, Ash works closely with directors and crews to support the vision of the film, focusing on lighting and composition to enhance the narrative. Whether it's a small indie project or a larger production, he approaches each job with a collaborative spirit, always learning and adapting along the way. Ash is committed to ensuring the visuals serve the story, believing that the best results come from quiet, careful work behind the scenes.
STEVEN GRIFFIN
1st Assistant Director
Steven Paul Griffin is a Toronto-based 1st Assistant Director. Having been a part of the DGC for the past four years, he has worked on some of the largest shows in the city as an Assistant Director, including Cross, Reacher, Handmaid's Tale, and more. As an independent 1st AD, he's worked with many young writers and directors on feature film and short-form projects. Outside of Assistant Directing, Steven is also a writer/director in his own write, with multiple short films having screened domestically and internationally. Steven is very excited to join another group of dedicated and talented filmmakers that fill out the Liberty team.
JAMES HOBAN
Sound
James dates his love for filmmaking back to the age of nine when he would create small Lego stop motion shorts and post them on Youtube. Today, he is lucky enough to utilize his knowledge both in front and behind the camera on a number of original projects. Ranging from commercials to feature films, James' experience is multifaceted and versatile. He is grateful to have the opportunity to work on A Deal in Liberty with an array of wonderful talents and amazing friends.
ANNA VILLENEUVE
Props
Anna Villeneuve is a multi-disciplinary artist with her roots in theatre. Actor, writer, and founder of 6 AM Productions - a company that specializes in digital and devised theatre - she is excited to bring her artistic experiences and explore the world of filmmaking in a new role.
ADAM RAKIC
G+E
As an alumni of film programs through Wilfrid Laurier University and Vancouver Film School, Adam has been honing his skills on film sets since 2021. Seasoned in grip, electric, camera and production design departments, Adam has become a Swiss Army knife of skills on each set he touches. In 2022, he combined his talents as the writer and director of the VFS-affiliated short film Italian After All.