Abandoned Buildings
New York City, New York | Film Short
Drama, Mystery
On a journey exploring abandoned buildings throughout the country, 4 hometown friends reconnect to try to rediscover their place in the world. This film explores not only buildings, but also relationships. How do we avoid destruction but also come back from it?
Abandoned Buildings
New York City, New York | Film Short
Drama, Mystery
1 Campaigns | Maine, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $10,060 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
23 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
On a journey exploring abandoned buildings throughout the country, 4 hometown friends reconnect to try to rediscover their place in the world. This film explores not only buildings, but also relationships. How do we avoid destruction but also come back from it?
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
"Abandoned Buildings" takes place during summer in the heart of rural America, areas that feel stuck in time and where the people could share the same fate.
The story starts with Kyra, a recent college graduate finding her way in the world, as she travels with her hometown friends - George, Wren, and Bernie - exploring forgotten buildings and uncovering their history. Along their journey, they confront why they left home and face their fears of being left behind, mirroring the buildings they search for. At its core, the film is about navigating uncertainty, searching for identity, and finding ways to come back stronger from loss, whether it be physical, mental, or emotional loss.
Will they get stuck in the past, or move onto their future?
Growing up in rural Maine, I was constantly exploring the forests, stumbling upon old shacks, rusted cars from the early 1900's, and even houses that hadn't seen love in a long time. I was captivated by these abandoned places, always wondering who left them behind and why. There was something haunting and beautiful in the silence of what was once lived in. I began to see how these forgotten structures mirrored the people who left them, and how neglect, decay, and absence can tell a story just as powerfully as presence.
That question stuck with me: Why do we preserve some things and leave others to fade away? It's not just about buildings, it's about relationships, families, dreams. “Abandoned Buildings” was born from that question.
This story matters because it explores how we hold onto, or let go of, the people and places that shape us. In a time when disconnection feels more common than ever, I want this film to reflect the quiet ache of separation, and the hope that even after things fall apart, restoration is still possible. It’s a story about foundations and how we build them, how they break, and how we try to rebuild, both around us and within ourselves.
Through this story, I hope to reach anyone who’s ever felt like they’re slipping through the cracks, reminding them that even in the quietest, most forgotten corners, there’s still beauty, memory, and the chance to begin again.
“Abandoned Buildings” will be shot with vintage lenses. These lenses have imperfections and wear to them that have been given to them through time, but are still here to tell stories. This will be a way to reflect the characters looking back on history of the structures and relationships, while also having the audience mimic looking back into the past through old glass.
Our team is deep into pre-production, starting to transform this story into reality before our very eyes. We will continue to progress the pre-production planning throughout June, July and August of this year, and finally film in mid-September. Our cast and crew are excited to continue putting work into every aspect of this tale, from the cinematography that will dance across the screen, to the sounds that will flutter throughout the air, and the performances that will have you feeling like you've known the characters for a lifetime. But none of this happens without your support and assistance.
CAST + CREW ($6,250): We want to make sure our talented and professional team who will bring this story to life are compensated for their authentic work.
TRAVEL + LODGING ($3,000): Ensuring that our team is safe and has a positive experience during this journey.
CATERING ($300): Keeping our team healthy and energized during filming long days.
CONTINGENCY ($1,400): A safety net for unforeseen expenses, keeping the filming on pace to be the best film it can be.
FESTIVAL RUN ($1,500): Submitting to festivals adds up quickly, and we want to make sure that this story is told to as many people as possible.
"Abandoned Buildings" as a short film is just the first step in it's long journey. This project will be treated as a proof of concept for the eventual feature length film version, expanding upon every aspect of the short.
We only have the highest intention of crafting emotionally deep and resonating stories that will connect with many audiences, no matter what part of their journey they are at in life. We're excited to bring "Abandoned Buildings" to life, we hope you are too!
We need to raise a minimum of 80% of our fundraising goal ($9,960), otherwise we won't receive any of the funding.
Making "Abandoned Buildings" is a labor love, but taking on such a project requires your support.
CONTRIBUTE TO OUR CAMPAIGN: No matter the amount you contribute, it brings us one step closer each time to telling this meaningful story.
SHARE OUR CAMPAIGN: The more eyes on this campaign, the more possibilities that can come to life for this film!
FOLLOW OUR CAMPAIGN: Follow this page as well as our Instagram @tilltomorrowpictures for updates of the campaign progress as well as the filming of the story continues!
THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME AND SUPPORT!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Cast + Crew Wages
Costs $6,250
Support us to fairly and properly compensate our talented and authentic team
Travel & Lodging
Costs $3,000
Help our Cast & Crew get to set safely!
Festival Run
Costs $1,500
Help us get it to festivals to ensure we share this special project with as many people as possible!
Catering for Cast & Crew
Costs $300
Help us keep our team healthy and energized each day on set!
Contingency
Costs $1,400
Having backup contingency funds available incase of unforeseen expenses are always important to have!
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Benji Otte (Writer, Director, Director of Photography)
Hey, I'm Benji and I'm a filmmaker born and raised in a small town in Maine, now working in New York City. I have 10 years of experience with directing shorts and features, focusing on deeply personal character-driven stories and colorful visuals to match. This is a very important story to me and I'm eager to share it not only with the talented creatives I'll be telling it with, but also various audiences throughout the world.
Chad Ackerson (Producer)
Hi, I’m Chad and I’m a filmmaker from Maine now based in Boston. Over the past several years, I’ve worked behind the camera on everything from narrative films and documentaries to live events. My passion is to tell stories that are thought-provoking in a way that feels authentic and emotionally grounded. I’m drawn to narratives that are honest and lived-in, and this particular story means a great deal to me. I’m excited to bring it to life with a team I believe in and to hopefully share it with audiences beyond us in the future.
Michaella Tillo (Producer, Script Supervisor)
Hi! My name is Michaella. I’m a filmmaker from Maine with experience primarily as a writer and producer. I have a deep love for stories about relationships and emotionally driven themes. To me, storytelling with themes centered around the human experience is vital, especially now. I’m excited to work with such a talented cast and crew to bring this vision to life.
Charlie Norton (First Assistant Director)
Charlie Norton is a dynamic filmmaker born and raised in Bridgewater, MA currently residing in New York City. He possesses a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Filmmaking from Hofstra University and directs and produces narrative and commercial content in both New York and Los Angeles.
Charlie is best known for his 2023 short film, "The Lost Weekend", which has screened at more than 20 film festivals nationwide including the 78th Festival de Cannes, SoHo International Film Festival and Beverly Hills Film Festival among others. He was also the recipient of Best Director at the 2024 New Bedford Film Festival as well as a nominee for Best Narrative Short Film at Kevin Smith's Smodcastle Film Festival.
Since 2016, he serves as the creative director for his production company, Flying Card Productions, and takes on projects from independent to corporate studio productions. Charlie is a part of the next generation of up and coming storytellers and he strives to exceed his creativity at the highest quality possible.
Daniele Amandolini (Head Gaffer)
Daniele is a freelance filmmaker based in Maine. He works on projects such as local commercials, corporate, and live events, but his true love lies in independent cinema. From lighting student films at his alma mater SMCC, to shooting a short for local film festival Damnationland, he spent the last 6 years honing his skills in the camera and G/E departments and falling in love with the craft. He is absolutely thrilled to be able to work with Benji and the rest of the "Abandoned Buildings" team.
Luis Miguel Valmadrid (Key Grip)
My name is Luis Miguel Valmadrid, I'm a graduate from Southern Maine Community College with a Communications and New Media degree. I have been doing film for 3 years with numerous hands on experience. I'm involved in the films such as: "Where The Heart Is", "Signature", "In Your Head", and recently my directorial debut, "Freddie". I have experience in the grip and electric department but my true goal is to become a successful cinematographer.
Sam Workman (Sound Mixer)
Born and raised in Saco, Maine, Sam Workman is the driving force behind the worker-owned Ramshackle Studios, delivering high quality Audio, Video, and Photography services across New England. In his capacity at Ramshackle Studios, he builds projects from concept to completion—producing, shooting, and directing across a diverse portfolio that includes corporate branding, commercial spots, live concert coverage, and indie short films. For four years he’s improved his technique and equipment, along the way proving his versatility and leadership across every production phase. Beyond visuals, Sam is an accomplished podcaster, co–hosting and producing on "Lobster Role", "Tertiary Sports", and "The Clambake Incident". Launched from his DIY basement studio, these shows reflect his passion for audio storytelling and his comedic flair.
A trained audio professional, he originally pursued studies in sound and continued discovering his passion for film and visual storytelling. Sam thrives on collaboration, relishing the creative energy of working with others to make something genuinely unexpected and bold.
Maxim Klub (2nd Assistant Camera)
Hey, I’m Maxim, a director and editor based in Portland, Maine. I’ve spent the past few years directing and editing music videos, and I’m now expanding into narrative storytelling to grow as a writer and push myself creatively. I’m especially drawn to stories that explore intimate emotion and vulnerability, and I’m learning to step outside my comfort zone to bring the ideas I imagine to life. I’m excited to help bring this vision to life alongside our director and crew.
Kalala Kiwanuka-Woernle ("Kyra")
Kalala Kiwanuka-Woernle is an actor and model based in Boston. She studied acting at the Eugene O’Neill Theater Center, the London Academy of Music & Dramatic Arts and received her B.A. in Theater and Dance from Macalester College. When asked why she creates art, Kalala's answer is always the same for my six-year-old self, who never got to see herself represented. Representation matters because we’re all impacted by the media we consume, which shapes our collective culture and how we understand ourselves and others. Kalala wants to be part of the creators who push to cultivate accurate representations of communities that have been historically overlooked and spoken for, showing that our lives matter and our stories must be told. Kalala is thrilled to be part of "Abandoned Buildings", playing Kyra and exploring the beautiful world Benji has created.
Megan Oysen ("Wren")
I am Megan Osyen, I will be playing “Wren” in “Abandoned Buildings”! I am an English/Welsh actress, fluent in Russian from my time growing up in Moscow. It was there that I wanted to start conservatory training, and I continued through my later moves to London and New York. Since graduating, I've been cast in various film roles, including a music video, five short films, and two upcoming feature films. You can also see me off-Broadway next December in the play ”We Three Kings”.
Patrick Lopez ("Bernie")
Patrick Lopez is a New York city born and raised actor who began his training at Gettysburg College and continued it at the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theater. He has recently worked on films such as "Windfall" and "WriterDirectorActorProducer". He is going to be in the New York Theater Festival’s Summerfest as a member of the cast of "The Monotonist". Patrick is immensely excited to take on the role of Bernie and cannot wait to tackle the lovely bigheartedness the character embodies.
Colin Kinsella ("George")
I began my acting journey in High School doing musical theater but stopped when I got to college. When I graduated I found my way back to acting, this time in film. I have spent the last year working with Emerson, BU, and Independent directors to bring their visions to the screen.
Audley Bullock ("Pops")
I am a happily married father of two adult children and a proud grandfather. A lifelong admirer of creativity in all its forms. I’ve been immersed in music as a writer, performer, DJ, and fan. My love for storytelling also extends to theater, film, and visual media. As an FAA certified drone operator, I’ve turned my drone hobby into a full time job and a side business that blends tech and art.
I became involved with Abandoned Buildings through my coworker Benji, whose work immediately struck a chord. After seeing his short film "Marley" and reading the script for "Abandoned Buildings", I felt an instant connection to the character Pops.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
"Abandoned Buildings" takes place during summer in the heart of rural America, areas that feel stuck in time and where the people could share the same fate.
The story starts with Kyra, a recent college graduate finding her way in the world, as she travels with her hometown friends - George, Wren, and Bernie - exploring forgotten buildings and uncovering their history. Along their journey, they confront why they left home and face their fears of being left behind, mirroring the buildings they search for. At its core, the film is about navigating uncertainty, searching for identity, and finding ways to come back stronger from loss, whether it be physical, mental, or emotional loss.
Will they get stuck in the past, or move onto their future?
Growing up in rural Maine, I was constantly exploring the forests, stumbling upon old shacks, rusted cars from the early 1900's, and even houses that hadn't seen love in a long time. I was captivated by these abandoned places, always wondering who left them behind and why. There was something haunting and beautiful in the silence of what was once lived in. I began to see how these forgotten structures mirrored the people who left them, and how neglect, decay, and absence can tell a story just as powerfully as presence.
That question stuck with me: Why do we preserve some things and leave others to fade away? It's not just about buildings, it's about relationships, families, dreams. “Abandoned Buildings” was born from that question.
This story matters because it explores how we hold onto, or let go of, the people and places that shape us. In a time when disconnection feels more common than ever, I want this film to reflect the quiet ache of separation, and the hope that even after things fall apart, restoration is still possible. It’s a story about foundations and how we build them, how they break, and how we try to rebuild, both around us and within ourselves.
Through this story, I hope to reach anyone who’s ever felt like they’re slipping through the cracks, reminding them that even in the quietest, most forgotten corners, there’s still beauty, memory, and the chance to begin again.
“Abandoned Buildings” will be shot with vintage lenses. These lenses have imperfections and wear to them that have been given to them through time, but are still here to tell stories. This will be a way to reflect the characters looking back on history of the structures and relationships, while also having the audience mimic looking back into the past through old glass.
Our team is deep into pre-production, starting to transform this story into reality before our very eyes. We will continue to progress the pre-production planning throughout June, July and August of this year, and finally film in mid-September. Our cast and crew are excited to continue putting work into every aspect of this tale, from the cinematography that will dance across the screen, to the sounds that will flutter throughout the air, and the performances that will have you feeling like you've known the characters for a lifetime. But none of this happens without your support and assistance.
CAST + CREW ($6,250): We want to make sure our talented and professional team who will bring this story to life are compensated for their authentic work.
TRAVEL + LODGING ($3,000): Ensuring that our team is safe and has a positive experience during this journey.
CATERING ($300): Keeping our team healthy and energized during filming long days.
CONTINGENCY ($1,400): A safety net for unforeseen expenses, keeping the filming on pace to be the best film it can be.
FESTIVAL RUN ($1,500): Submitting to festivals adds up quickly, and we want to make sure that this story is told to as many people as possible.
"Abandoned Buildings" as a short film is just the first step in it's long journey. This project will be treated as a proof of concept for the eventual feature length film version, expanding upon every aspect of the short.
We only have the highest intention of crafting emotionally deep and resonating stories that will connect with many audiences, no matter what part of their journey they are at in life. We're excited to bring "Abandoned Buildings" to life, we hope you are too!
We need to raise a minimum of 80% of our fundraising goal ($9,960), otherwise we won't receive any of the funding.
Making "Abandoned Buildings" is a labor love, but taking on such a project requires your support.
CONTRIBUTE TO OUR CAMPAIGN: No matter the amount you contribute, it brings us one step closer each time to telling this meaningful story.
SHARE OUR CAMPAIGN: The more eyes on this campaign, the more possibilities that can come to life for this film!
FOLLOW OUR CAMPAIGN: Follow this page as well as our Instagram @tilltomorrowpictures for updates of the campaign progress as well as the filming of the story continues!
THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME AND SUPPORT!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Cast + Crew Wages
Costs $6,250
Support us to fairly and properly compensate our talented and authentic team
Travel & Lodging
Costs $3,000
Help our Cast & Crew get to set safely!
Festival Run
Costs $1,500
Help us get it to festivals to ensure we share this special project with as many people as possible!
Catering for Cast & Crew
Costs $300
Help us keep our team healthy and energized each day on set!
Contingency
Costs $1,400
Having backup contingency funds available incase of unforeseen expenses are always important to have!
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Benji Otte (Writer, Director, Director of Photography)
Hey, I'm Benji and I'm a filmmaker born and raised in a small town in Maine, now working in New York City. I have 10 years of experience with directing shorts and features, focusing on deeply personal character-driven stories and colorful visuals to match. This is a very important story to me and I'm eager to share it not only with the talented creatives I'll be telling it with, but also various audiences throughout the world.
Chad Ackerson (Producer)
Hi, I’m Chad and I’m a filmmaker from Maine now based in Boston. Over the past several years, I’ve worked behind the camera on everything from narrative films and documentaries to live events. My passion is to tell stories that are thought-provoking in a way that feels authentic and emotionally grounded. I’m drawn to narratives that are honest and lived-in, and this particular story means a great deal to me. I’m excited to bring it to life with a team I believe in and to hopefully share it with audiences beyond us in the future.
Michaella Tillo (Producer, Script Supervisor)
Hi! My name is Michaella. I’m a filmmaker from Maine with experience primarily as a writer and producer. I have a deep love for stories about relationships and emotionally driven themes. To me, storytelling with themes centered around the human experience is vital, especially now. I’m excited to work with such a talented cast and crew to bring this vision to life.
Charlie Norton (First Assistant Director)
Charlie Norton is a dynamic filmmaker born and raised in Bridgewater, MA currently residing in New York City. He possesses a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Filmmaking from Hofstra University and directs and produces narrative and commercial content in both New York and Los Angeles.
Charlie is best known for his 2023 short film, "The Lost Weekend", which has screened at more than 20 film festivals nationwide including the 78th Festival de Cannes, SoHo International Film Festival and Beverly Hills Film Festival among others. He was also the recipient of Best Director at the 2024 New Bedford Film Festival as well as a nominee for Best Narrative Short Film at Kevin Smith's Smodcastle Film Festival.
Since 2016, he serves as the creative director for his production company, Flying Card Productions, and takes on projects from independent to corporate studio productions. Charlie is a part of the next generation of up and coming storytellers and he strives to exceed his creativity at the highest quality possible.
Daniele Amandolini (Head Gaffer)
Daniele is a freelance filmmaker based in Maine. He works on projects such as local commercials, corporate, and live events, but his true love lies in independent cinema. From lighting student films at his alma mater SMCC, to shooting a short for local film festival Damnationland, he spent the last 6 years honing his skills in the camera and G/E departments and falling in love with the craft. He is absolutely thrilled to be able to work with Benji and the rest of the "Abandoned Buildings" team.
Luis Miguel Valmadrid (Key Grip)
My name is Luis Miguel Valmadrid, I'm a graduate from Southern Maine Community College with a Communications and New Media degree. I have been doing film for 3 years with numerous hands on experience. I'm involved in the films such as: "Where The Heart Is", "Signature", "In Your Head", and recently my directorial debut, "Freddie". I have experience in the grip and electric department but my true goal is to become a successful cinematographer.
Sam Workman (Sound Mixer)
Born and raised in Saco, Maine, Sam Workman is the driving force behind the worker-owned Ramshackle Studios, delivering high quality Audio, Video, and Photography services across New England. In his capacity at Ramshackle Studios, he builds projects from concept to completion—producing, shooting, and directing across a diverse portfolio that includes corporate branding, commercial spots, live concert coverage, and indie short films. For four years he’s improved his technique and equipment, along the way proving his versatility and leadership across every production phase. Beyond visuals, Sam is an accomplished podcaster, co–hosting and producing on "Lobster Role", "Tertiary Sports", and "The Clambake Incident". Launched from his DIY basement studio, these shows reflect his passion for audio storytelling and his comedic flair.
A trained audio professional, he originally pursued studies in sound and continued discovering his passion for film and visual storytelling. Sam thrives on collaboration, relishing the creative energy of working with others to make something genuinely unexpected and bold.
Maxim Klub (2nd Assistant Camera)
Hey, I’m Maxim, a director and editor based in Portland, Maine. I’ve spent the past few years directing and editing music videos, and I’m now expanding into narrative storytelling to grow as a writer and push myself creatively. I’m especially drawn to stories that explore intimate emotion and vulnerability, and I’m learning to step outside my comfort zone to bring the ideas I imagine to life. I’m excited to help bring this vision to life alongside our director and crew.
Kalala Kiwanuka-Woernle ("Kyra")
Kalala Kiwanuka-Woernle is an actor and model based in Boston. She studied acting at the Eugene O’Neill Theater Center, the London Academy of Music & Dramatic Arts and received her B.A. in Theater and Dance from Macalester College. When asked why she creates art, Kalala's answer is always the same for my six-year-old self, who never got to see herself represented. Representation matters because we’re all impacted by the media we consume, which shapes our collective culture and how we understand ourselves and others. Kalala wants to be part of the creators who push to cultivate accurate representations of communities that have been historically overlooked and spoken for, showing that our lives matter and our stories must be told. Kalala is thrilled to be part of "Abandoned Buildings", playing Kyra and exploring the beautiful world Benji has created.
Megan Oysen ("Wren")
I am Megan Osyen, I will be playing “Wren” in “Abandoned Buildings”! I am an English/Welsh actress, fluent in Russian from my time growing up in Moscow. It was there that I wanted to start conservatory training, and I continued through my later moves to London and New York. Since graduating, I've been cast in various film roles, including a music video, five short films, and two upcoming feature films. You can also see me off-Broadway next December in the play ”We Three Kings”.
Patrick Lopez ("Bernie")
Patrick Lopez is a New York city born and raised actor who began his training at Gettysburg College and continued it at the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theater. He has recently worked on films such as "Windfall" and "WriterDirectorActorProducer". He is going to be in the New York Theater Festival’s Summerfest as a member of the cast of "The Monotonist". Patrick is immensely excited to take on the role of Bernie and cannot wait to tackle the lovely bigheartedness the character embodies.
Colin Kinsella ("George")
I began my acting journey in High School doing musical theater but stopped when I got to college. When I graduated I found my way back to acting, this time in film. I have spent the last year working with Emerson, BU, and Independent directors to bring their visions to the screen.
Audley Bullock ("Pops")
I am a happily married father of two adult children and a proud grandfather. A lifelong admirer of creativity in all its forms. I’ve been immersed in music as a writer, performer, DJ, and fan. My love for storytelling also extends to theater, film, and visual media. As an FAA certified drone operator, I’ve turned my drone hobby into a full time job and a side business that blends tech and art.
I became involved with Abandoned Buildings through my coworker Benji, whose work immediately struck a chord. After seeing his short film "Marley" and reading the script for "Abandoned Buildings", I felt an instant connection to the character Pops.