Anastasis
Salt Lake City, Utah | Film Short
Sci-Fi, LGBTQ
Anastasis is a sci-fi family drama where a trans woman and her father must repair their ship and relationship to survive. With retro 1970s aesthetics and a heartfelt story, it humanizes trans experiences, fostering empathy and connection when the world needs it most.
Anastasis
Salt Lake City, Utah | Film Short
Sci-Fi, LGBTQ
1 Campaigns | Utah, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $4,867 for post-production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
86 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
Anastasis is a sci-fi family drama where a trans woman and her father must repair their ship and relationship to survive. With retro 1970s aesthetics and a heartfelt story, it humanizes trans experiences, fostering empathy and connection when the world needs it most.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
When Anastasia, a determined yet reckless trans woman, crash-lands on a desolate planet with her father Grady, their already strained relationship is pushed to the breaking point. Struggling with Grady’s repeated misgendering, Ana fights not just to survive on the barren world, but to be seen and understood by the one person who should accept her unconditionally—her father. As they work together to repair their spaceship, The Palomino, the rift between them only deepens, with Ana questioning whether it’s worth fighting for a future where her identity is constantly dismissed.
 Large.jpeg)
Anastasis tells a unique story about life after coming out, focusing on the subtle but profound challenges of loved ones still adjusting to a trans person’s identity. Inspired by writer and director Josie Maye Hurtley’s own experiences, the film examines the emotional impact of everyday mistakes like misgendering and deadnaming within even the most supportive families.
Originally conceived as a guide for her family, Hurtley envisioned Anastasis as a hopeful yet honest depiction of navigating relationships post-transition. The film pairs this deeply personal story with the visual language of 1970s sci-fi, drawing inspiration from Ridley Scott's Alien and Blade Runner. With its heartfelt narrative and retro aesthetic, Anastasis seeks to foster empathy and reach a broader audience through its out-of-this-world setting and timeless filmmaking techniques.
Anastasis is both a story by and for the queer community. Led by writer and director Josie Maye Hurtley, a trans woman, the production intentionally prioritizes trans and queer representation within its creative team.
The team includes Director of Photography August Farmer (she/her), a trans woman whose expertise will shape the film’s visual storytelling, supported by First AC Solstice Harris (she/her), a trans woman with extensive experience behind the camera.
The film’s leads are also under the trans umbrella: Dakota Hommes, a trans actress known for her work on TikTok, stars as Anastasia, with Alexis Baigue (he/she/they/it), a nonbinary actor, playing Grady. Anastasis aims to create an inclusive environment that reflects the values at the heart of its story.
.jpg)
Anastasis has been filmed, but now we need your help to bring it fully to life. Post-production is where the emotional weight of the story is refined, and the breathtaking sci-fi world we’ve created truly comes to life.
Your contributions will allow us to:
- Hire a skilled composer to craft an original score that heightens the story’s tension and emotional resonance.
- Work with a talented VFX artist to seamlessly enhance our practical effects and bring the alien planet to vivid life.
- Complete professional sound design and color grading to deliver a polished, immersive experience.
- Give back to our incredible crew members who generously donated their time, skills, and gear to support this film.
- Cover festival submission fees to ensure Anastasis reaches the audiences it’s meant to inspire.
If we surpass our crowdfunding goals we can pay back our growing list of volunteers who have made this project possible with their donated time and equipment.
By supporting our campaign, you’re not just finishing a film—you’re honoring the work of a passionate, resourceful team and helping Anastasis reach its full potential. Every contribution takes us closer to sharing this deeply personal, visually stunning story with the world.
Thank you for being part of the journey to bring Anastasis to life. This film is more than just a story—it’s a deeply personal reflection of the complexities of love, identity, and understanding. With your support, we can ensure that the final product does justice to the vision, the hard work of our team, and the important message at its core.
We understand that not everyone can support this film financially, below are some other ways you can help!
- Follow and share our posts on Instagram and Facebook.
- Explore our website and sign up for our newsletter.
- Spread the word! Tell your family and friends about the film.
- Come out to a screening! Keep an eye on where you can watch the film and fill in those seats.
Together, we can finish this film and share it with the world, where it has the power to inspire, connect, and spark meaningful conversations. Your contribution is invaluable, and we are so grateful for your belief in Anastasis. Let’s make something beautiful together.
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
VFX Magic: Bringing the World of Anastasis to Life
Costs $1,500
Help us bring Anastasis to life! $1,000 will fund a talented VFX artist to create stunning sci-fi visuals and complete the film's world.
Score the Story: Original Music for Anastasis
Costs $400
$400 will fund a skilled composer to create a powerful, original score, bringing the emotions and themes of Anastasis to life.
Bring Anastasis to Audiences Everywhere
Costs $1,000
$1,000 will cover festival submissions and distribution costs, helping us showcase Anastasis on a global stage.
Support the Team: Gear Reimbursement
Costs $200
$200 will help reimburse crew members who generously donated their gear to bring Anastasis to life. Your support honors their commitment.
Shaping the Story: Editing the Film
Costs $400
$400 will fund our talented editor to craft the final cut of Anastasis, bringing the story to life with precision and artistry.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Josie Maye Hurtley (she/her) – Director, Writer, Production Designer
Josie Maye Hurtley is a filmmaker based in Salt Lake City, with over a decade of experience in acting, writing, design, and theatrical carpentry. Drawing from her background in military aviation and special effects, she creates fantastical worlds with both traditional and modern techniques, telling deeply personal stories that resonate with diverse audiences.
Cayden Turnbow (he/him) – Executive Producer
Cayden Turnbow is an independent filmmaker and producer passionate about showcasing important stories. He has worked on successful events like Post Credits and produced An Arrangement of Skin, which was featured at the Utah International Film Festival and FilmQuest.
Dakota Hommes (she/her) – Anastasia (Lead Actress)
Dakota Hommes is an actor, writer, and filmmaker, best known for her TikTok presence and her role in the award-winning short The Treadmill Switcher. As a trans woman, Dakota brings authenticity and emotional depth to the role of Anastasia.
Alexis Baigue (he/she/they/it) – Grady (Lead Actor)
Alexis Baigue is a nonbinary actor with an extensive background in theatre and television, including roles in the Utah Shakespeare Festival and Granite Flats. With a diverse body of work, Alexis brings a unique, powerful presence to the role of Grady.
August Farmer (she/her) – Director of Photography
August Farmer is a talented trans woman cinematographer whose technical skill and creative vision will shape the visual storytelling of Anastasis. She brings both artistry and authenticity to the film’s cinematic world.
Each member of our team contributes their unique voice and expertise, making Anastasis a film that represents the diverse and underrepresented perspectives in cinema.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
When Anastasia, a determined yet reckless trans woman, crash-lands on a desolate planet with her father Grady, their already strained relationship is pushed to the breaking point. Struggling with Grady’s repeated misgendering, Ana fights not just to survive on the barren world, but to be seen and understood by the one person who should accept her unconditionally—her father. As they work together to repair their spaceship, The Palomino, the rift between them only deepens, with Ana questioning whether it’s worth fighting for a future where her identity is constantly dismissed.
Anastasis tells a unique story about life after coming out, focusing on the subtle but profound challenges of loved ones still adjusting to a trans person’s identity. Inspired by writer and director Josie Maye Hurtley’s own experiences, the film examines the emotional impact of everyday mistakes like misgendering and deadnaming within even the most supportive families.
Originally conceived as a guide for her family, Hurtley envisioned Anastasis as a hopeful yet honest depiction of navigating relationships post-transition. The film pairs this deeply personal story with the visual language of 1970s sci-fi, drawing inspiration from Ridley Scott's Alien and Blade Runner. With its heartfelt narrative and retro aesthetic, Anastasis seeks to foster empathy and reach a broader audience through its out-of-this-world setting and timeless filmmaking techniques.
Anastasis is both a story by and for the queer community. Led by writer and director Josie Maye Hurtley, a trans woman, the production intentionally prioritizes trans and queer representation within its creative team.
The team includes Director of Photography August Farmer (she/her), a trans woman whose expertise will shape the film’s visual storytelling, supported by First AC Solstice Harris (she/her), a trans woman with extensive experience behind the camera.
The film’s leads are also under the trans umbrella: Dakota Hommes, a trans actress known for her work on TikTok, stars as Anastasia, with Alexis Baigue (he/she/they/it), a nonbinary actor, playing Grady. Anastasis aims to create an inclusive environment that reflects the values at the heart of its story.
Anastasis has been filmed, but now we need your help to bring it fully to life. Post-production is where the emotional weight of the story is refined, and the breathtaking sci-fi world we’ve created truly comes to life.
Your contributions will allow us to:
- Hire a skilled composer to craft an original score that heightens the story’s tension and emotional resonance.
- Work with a talented VFX artist to seamlessly enhance our practical effects and bring the alien planet to vivid life.
- Complete professional sound design and color grading to deliver a polished, immersive experience.
- Give back to our incredible crew members who generously donated their time, skills, and gear to support this film.
- Cover festival submission fees to ensure Anastasis reaches the audiences it’s meant to inspire.
If we surpass our crowdfunding goals we can pay back our growing list of volunteers who have made this project possible with their donated time and equipment.
By supporting our campaign, you’re not just finishing a film—you’re honoring the work of a passionate, resourceful team and helping Anastasis reach its full potential. Every contribution takes us closer to sharing this deeply personal, visually stunning story with the world.
Thank you for being part of the journey to bring Anastasis to life. This film is more than just a story—it’s a deeply personal reflection of the complexities of love, identity, and understanding. With your support, we can ensure that the final product does justice to the vision, the hard work of our team, and the important message at its core.
We understand that not everyone can support this film financially, below are some other ways you can help!
- Follow and share our posts on Instagram and Facebook.
- Explore our website and sign up for our newsletter.
- Spread the word! Tell your family and friends about the film.
- Come out to a screening! Keep an eye on where you can watch the film and fill in those seats.
Together, we can finish this film and share it with the world, where it has the power to inspire, connect, and spark meaningful conversations. Your contribution is invaluable, and we are so grateful for your belief in Anastasis. Let’s make something beautiful together.
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
VFX Magic: Bringing the World of Anastasis to Life
Costs $1,500
Help us bring Anastasis to life! $1,000 will fund a talented VFX artist to create stunning sci-fi visuals and complete the film's world.
Score the Story: Original Music for Anastasis
Costs $400
$400 will fund a skilled composer to create a powerful, original score, bringing the emotions and themes of Anastasis to life.
Bring Anastasis to Audiences Everywhere
Costs $1,000
$1,000 will cover festival submissions and distribution costs, helping us showcase Anastasis on a global stage.
Support the Team: Gear Reimbursement
Costs $200
$200 will help reimburse crew members who generously donated their gear to bring Anastasis to life. Your support honors their commitment.
Shaping the Story: Editing the Film
Costs $400
$400 will fund our talented editor to craft the final cut of Anastasis, bringing the story to life with precision and artistry.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Josie Maye Hurtley (she/her) – Director, Writer, Production Designer
Josie Maye Hurtley is a filmmaker based in Salt Lake City, with over a decade of experience in acting, writing, design, and theatrical carpentry. Drawing from her background in military aviation and special effects, she creates fantastical worlds with both traditional and modern techniques, telling deeply personal stories that resonate with diverse audiences.
Cayden Turnbow (he/him) – Executive Producer
Cayden Turnbow is an independent filmmaker and producer passionate about showcasing important stories. He has worked on successful events like Post Credits and produced An Arrangement of Skin, which was featured at the Utah International Film Festival and FilmQuest.
Dakota Hommes (she/her) – Anastasia (Lead Actress)
Dakota Hommes is an actor, writer, and filmmaker, best known for her TikTok presence and her role in the award-winning short The Treadmill Switcher. As a trans woman, Dakota brings authenticity and emotional depth to the role of Anastasia.
Alexis Baigue (he/she/they/it) – Grady (Lead Actor)
Alexis Baigue is a nonbinary actor with an extensive background in theatre and television, including roles in the Utah Shakespeare Festival and Granite Flats. With a diverse body of work, Alexis brings a unique, powerful presence to the role of Grady.
August Farmer (she/her) – Director of Photography
August Farmer is a talented trans woman cinematographer whose technical skill and creative vision will shape the visual storytelling of Anastasis. She brings both artistry and authenticity to the film’s cinematic world.
Each member of our team contributes their unique voice and expertise, making Anastasis a film that represents the diverse and underrepresented perspectives in cinema.