BAG BOYS
San Fernando, California | Film Short
Comedy, Drama
Short Film | When a young Latino grocery store BAG BOY dreams of becoming the next Spielberg, he must learn to navigate the chaos of his own life in The San Fernando Valley.
BAG BOYS
San Fernando, California | Film Short
Comedy, Drama
1 Campaigns | California, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $10,495 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
88 supporters | followers
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Short Film | When a young Latino grocery store BAG BOY dreams of becoming the next Spielberg, he must learn to navigate the chaos of his own life in The San Fernando Valley.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
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The heart of BAG BOYS was born out of a deeply emotional and transformative moment for my brother — the Writer/Creator, Daniel Moreno. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, he worked at a grocery store, battling the stress and fear of being on the front lines while grappling with an even heavier burden — THE FEELING THAT HE WAS NEVER GOING TO AMOUNT TO ANYTHING.
One night, he called me in tears, overwhelmed and unsure of how much longer he could go on at the store. But in that vulnerable moment, he shared an idea that had been quietly forming in his mind — A STORY ABOUT A GROCERY STORE "BAG BOY" WITH BIG DREAMS FOR SOMETHING MORE.
As we began to develop the concept, a realization hit us! Working at a grocery store had always been a pivotal marker in our family's history.
Our great-grandfather owned a small corner market in the CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, where our grandmother, her siblings and eventually our father all worked. The store was more than just a workplace, it was a testament to the resilience and determination of our family.
It represented the sacrifices they made, the challenges they overcame, and THE DREAMS THEY QUIETLY NURTURED.
For several years now, Daniel and I have poured our hearts into crafting this story, a journey marked by many fights, challenges, and even tears. Through it all, we persevered, driven by an unwavering belief that this story was MEANT TO BE SHARED WITH THE WORLD.
BAG BOYS is more than just a heartfelt story about a grocery store — it’s a profound exploration of the UNDERDOG SPIRIT and delves into the unseen burdens so many carry while reaching for something greater. At its foundation, it honors the everyday individual who perseveres in the face of adversity and turns that PAIN INTO THEIR DESTINY
This show celebrates the truth that even in the most ordinary places, extraordinary dreams can flourish — AND THOSE DREAMS DESERVE TO BE SEEN, HEARD, AND CELEBRATED.
For Daniel Arnez, our lead character, cinema is more than entertainment — it’s his escape, his coping mechanism, and how he interprets the world around him.
When emotions run high, Daniel’s imagination takes over, reinterpreting his reality as scenes from his favorite films.
After hitting a customer’s car with a cart, he pictures the incident as a Frankenstein nightmare, with the customer turning into a towering, monstrous figure chasing him.
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A confrontation with his boss becomes a Godfather-style drama, filled with gripping intensity.
These vivid sequences are more than just escapism — they reveal Daniel’s inner world.
Ultimately, this film celebrates the transformative power of cinema — how it shapes identity, fuels ambition, and provides a lens through which we understand ourselves. Through Daniel’s eyes, it highlights the urgent need to expand the landscape of Latino storytelling.
Bag Boys is not just a story — it’s a call to action in a time when the need for representation has never been more urgent.
Latinos make up nearly 50% of Los Angeles County's population, yet our stories remain vastly underrepresented in the industry.
According to the 2024 McKinsey Study, Latinos represent less than 5% of leading on-screen, off-screen, and executive leadership roles in the film industry.
Some of our stories have been told, but it’s not enough.
To truly reflect the authenticity and diversity of our experiences, we must all tell our stories because one Latino story is not a monolith for all.
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While Bag Boys focuses on Latino and Hispanic experiences, its message is UNIVERSAL.
Across all cultures, people grapple with questions of identity, belonging, and connection to their past. This film hopes to inspire audiences from all walks of life to learn about, embrace, and take pride in their heritage.
By exploring where we come from, we not only uncover a deeper sense of self but also discover the profound connection to our historical lineage and the immense resilience of those who paved the way for us.
The San Fernando Valley has always been a paradox — a place brimming with history, culture, and life, sitting just over the hill from Hollywood, yet often overlooked by the industry it helped build. Decades ago, the Valley’s streets served as the backdrop for countless iconic shows and films, shaping the golden age of entertainment.
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Long before the bright lights of Hollywood, this land was Mexico, and its Latino roots run deep. For centuries, we have lived, worked, and thrived here, shaping the identity of California itself. Yet our stories, rich and vibrant, and full of humanity — have been relegated to the sidelines.
BAG BOYS isn’t just a heartfelt story — it's paying homage to the San Fernando Valley and the extraordinary people who have shaped and continue to inspire its greatness. It’s about reclaiming our place in the narrative, breaking through barriers, and telling the untold stories of a community that has always been here, even when Hollywood didn’t see us.
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The San Fernando Valley isn’t just a backdrop — it’s a testament to the resilience of our culture and history.
With Bag Boys, we’re pushing ourselves even further — bringing the same level of excellence and raw storytelling that made Palmdale an award-winning film. Palmdale earned Best Drama and multiple nominations, including Best Actress, Best Supporting Actress, Best Score, and Best Writing, with official selections at festivals such as the Valley Film Festival, Portland Film Festival, North Hollywood CineFest, Sherman Oaks Film Festival, SIMI Film Fest, LA Independent Women Film Awards, and Pasadena International Film Festival.
Being honored as Best Emerging Director and Best L.A. Filmmaker reinforced my commitment to telling bold, human stories that capture both the depth of performance and the authenticity of the world they inhabit.
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Bag Boys blends the surrealism of Atlanta with the raw, grounded feel of Reservation Dogs, capturing the underdog spirit and tackling social issues. Its vibrant, cinematic aesthetic draws from La La Land, while the ensemble workplace dynamics echo Superstore. Inspired by This Fool, it incorporates sharp dark humor and comedian-driven, semi-unscripted moments.
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Our production goal is $10,000, and we need to reach at least 80% to get funded. These funds will cover the BASICS OF PRODUCTION — cast and crew wages, food, equipment, production design, locations, permits and insurance.
This is the foundation we need to bring BAG BOYS to life.
Cast (21.5%)
The heart of our story. We’re committed to assembling a talented cast, with a mix of working actors and rising talent, all fairly compensated for their work.
Crew (20.5%)
The backbone of production. This budget supports the skilled professionals handling cinematography, lighting, sound, and set construction.
Equipment (16%)
Professional cameras, lighting, and sound gear to capture the vibrant essence of the San Fernando Valley with cinematic quality.
Locations & Permits (11.5%)
Covers permits and securing dynamic locations that bring Bag Boys to life.
Insurance (11%)
Safety first. Ensures coverage for the cast, crew, and equipment, including SAG-AFTRA contributions for actors' pension and health plans.
Production Design (10%)
Crafting a visually rich world, from the grocery store’s details to the nostalgic charm of the Arnez family home.
Catering & Craft Services (9.5%)
Keeping the team fueled for long shooting days.
While this is enough to get started, we dream of doing more. Meeting our goal will allow us to pay our team fairly and produce something of high quality. But if we exceed it, we'll unlock STRETCH GOALS to take Bag Boys TO THE NEXT LEVEL.
Here’s how your contribution will MAKE AN IMPACT:
- $10,000: Covers basic production essentials (cast, crew, equipment, food, insurance, and locations).
- $15,000 - (STRETCH GOAL): Allows us to hire additional crew, upgrade equipment like camera lenses, and increase production design budget to truly capture Daniel’s cinematic daydreams.
- $20,000–$25,000 - (FULL STRETCH GOAL): Funds post-production (editing, sound mixing, music licensing, color grading, VFX) and supports marketing and distribution, ensuring Bag Boys gets seen and celebrated.
This $25,000 TOTAL will cover PRE-PRODUCTION, PRODUCTION, and POST-PRODUCTION, allowing us create a pilot that looks and feels far beyond its cost!
We are excited to announce our partnership with Los Angeles City College (LACC) and are grateful to have received a grant that has helped us cover some of our pre-production costs. However, it’s only a start, and we still need your support to bring this project to life.
By donating to this campaign, you’re not just helping us tell an incredible story — you’re also providing LACC students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience on a real set. This is a chance for them to see that there’s a place for them in this industry and to build the confidence and skills they need for their future.
Your contribution will make a real difference, both in the success of our film and in inspiring the next generation of filmmakers!
Making a project like BAG BOYS is a labor of love, requiring both TIME, MONEY & SUPPORT. This budget isn’t just about making a single film — it’s about proving the value of authentic Latino stories in an industry that too often overlooks them.
By contributing to this campaign, you’re not just helping us create BAG BOYS. You’re investing in FUTURE LATINO STORIES and helping to break barriers in an industry that needs more diverse voices. Every dollar you contribute is a step toward making this dream a reality — and creating something you can be PROUD TO BE APART OF.
With your support, we can make a film that looks VISUALLY STUNNING, feel AUTHENTIC, and INSPIRES OTHERS TO DREAM BIG!
Thank you for helping us make BAG BOYS a reality!
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Join our mailing list to stay up-to-date with campaign progress & announcements: Click here - BAG BOYS NEWSLETTER
Sponsor the film! We are seeking partnerships with brands, companies, and individuals — both within the San Fernando community and beyond — who are passionate about supporting this project and its mission!
Email us! - [email protected]
Thank you for your support,
The Bag Boys Team
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Cast
Costs $2,200
Ensuring fair compensation for a talented cast, including name talent, to deliver captivating and authentic performances.
Crew
Costs $2,050
Supporting the skilled professionals behind the scenes who bring every aspect of the production to life.
Equipment
Costs $1,300
Covering the rental of professional-grade cameras, lighting, and sound gear to achieve a polished and cinematic look.
Location & Permits
Costs $1,250
Securing beautiful, authentic locations and permits to ground the story in its unique setting.
Insurance
Costs $1,100
Protecting the cast, crew, and equipment with essential production insurance for a safe and smooth shoot.
Production Design
Costs $900
This fund will cover the creation of sets, props, and visual elements that bring the story to life and reflect the world of the film.
Catering & Craft Services
Costs $1,200
Providing meals and snacks to keep our hardworking cast and crew energized and focused throughout production.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Share this update!
About This Team
LAUREN MORENO is an award-winning, filmmaker from the San Fernando Valley. Her directorial debut, Palmdale, has been widely recognized, winning Best Drama and earning nominations across multiple categories, including Best Actress, Best Supporting Actress, Best Score, and Best Writing. Lauren herself has won Best Emerging Director and Best L.A. Filmmaker, further solidifying her place as a rising voice in independent cinema. The film has been selected for several festivals and is still making its rounds on the festival circuit. She has also produced several other projects, expanding her creative reach beyond directing.
For over four years now, Lauren has been developing her latest project, Bag Boys, alongside her brother, crafting a story that continues her exploration of identity, resilience, and connection. As a director, she puts a strong emphasis on performance, creating a space where actors can fully immerse themselves in their characters and explore the emotional depth of their roles. Committed to amplifying underrepresented voices, Lauren’s work captures the complexity of human emotion and the beauty found in everyday life. At her core, she is a storyteller searching for what makes us human.
DANIEL MORENO is a filmmaker and writer from the San Fernando Valley with a deep love for cinema and film history. Drawing from his own life, he crafts stories with humor, heart, and authenticity. His latest project, Bag Boys, is inspired by his time as a grocery store clerk and reflects his commitment to telling meaningful, character-driven narratives. A former student of Los Angeles Valley College, he studied film and took Introduction to Diversity in Cinema, a course that deepened his dedication to amplifying underrepresented voices.
As a filmmaker who has dealt with his own disabilities his whole life, Daniel has never let them define or limit him. Instead, they have shaped his perspective, fueling his drive to tell personal and resonant stories - especially those rooted in the Latino experience. With Bag Boys, he's just getting started, determined to bring bold, original stories to the screen.
GAVIN WYNN, a visionary filmmaker and cinematographer, brings a deep love for storytelling and striking visual artistry to every project he undertakes. A native of the San Gabriel Valley, he grew up watching his father cook in small Chinese restaurants and his mother work night shifts in data processing, instilling in him a relentless work ethic and a spirit of independence. A latch-key kid with a boundless imagination, Gavin spent his childhood crafting fantastical worlds, much to the frustration of teachers who sent home notes about his constant daydreaming.
That same dreamer’s spirit led him to film school, where he fell in love with the poetic cinema of Wong Kar-Wai, the bold innovations of Orson Welles, and the evocative imagery of Claire Denis. His career has since spanned feature films, television, and documentaries, including Miss Navajo, which premiered at Sundance, and his latest film, set to screen at the Zsigmond Vilmos International Film Festival.
With years in the camera department on acclaimed series like Modern Family, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Party Down, Cyrus, and Colin in Black & White, Gavin has built a career collaborating with some of the industry’s best. Reuniting with Lauren after their film Palmdale, he continues to push the boundaries of filmmaking, blending his parents’ work ethic with his passion for cinematic beauty. He strives to create a cinema utopia — one filled with peace and happiness. And if you share this vision, he’d love to sing karaoke with you.
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DYLAN SHIELDS has been a cinema professor in the LACCD for over 14 years and has worked in the industry for nearly 30. He grew up as a non-Native on the Duck Valley Indian Reservation in Nevada/Idaho and attended UNLV where he earned a BA in Film Studies. He worked in production in Las Vegas before moving to Los Angeles to attend AFI where he earned an MFA in screenwriting. Dylan's industry experience includes several years as an executive assistant, manager, production manager, line producer, and producer with his first feature film premiering at the Sundance Film Festival.
Dylan has been actively acquiring and managing grants to support advanced level films from underrepresented voices in the entertainment industry and greater collaboration among the cinema and theater departments at LACC. Since 2017 he has produced and overseen production on over a dozen short films that have been accepted into 15+ festivals, won 7+ awards, earned hundreds of work credits for students, and assisted students in being accepted into the top film schools. His latest effort, Bag Boys, is a love letter to cinema and a call to amplify Latino voices. Additionally, Dylan is working with an LACC student to produce a feature length documentary on the Whitestone Hill Memorial Ride that takes place annually in North & South Dakota.
JOE PERACCHIO Joe currently serves as Story/Script Consultant on a new series in Brazil and a feature film in India, both through his deal with Netflix International. He recently served as Consulting Producer on a series for MediaCorp Television in Singapore and on several series in development for Netflix in Saudi Arabia. He’s written & produced for DECEPTION on ABC & THE FLASH on the CW Network, both for Warner Bros TV, and for THE MESSENGERS for CBS/CW. He was part of the producing team for ESPN's 30for30 documentary TROJAN WAR and was a writer & actor for the Emmy nominated FENCES on PBS for two seasons. He’s been nominated for numerous awards including the Humanitas Drama & New Voices Fellowships.
Joe received his MFA in screenwriting from USC's School of Cinematic Arts where he is now a professor. A graduate of the Warner Bros. TV Writers Program, Joe has trained writers for both the WB and Disney/ABC Writers Programs, teaches Screenwriting for Actors at Ivana Chubbuck Studio in LA, both screenwriting and acting for Los Angeles City College, and works abroad extensively training international writers through the Middle East Media Initiative (MEMI), the Red Sea International Film Festival’s Series Labs in Saudi Arabia, and in every corner of the globe for Netflix.
Joe starred in The CW's acclaimed TV drama series EASY MONEY from the producers of THE SOPRANOS among many other screen roles, and has performed and directed theatre internationally for over two decades. He is the Founding Artistic Director of Tricklock Company, University of New Mexico’s theatre in residence; creator of the Revolutions International Theatre Festival; and founding producer of both the Rubicon International Theatre Festival and California International Theatre Festival. Born in Connecticut, Joe grew up on the US/Mexico border, and lives in LA with his two daughters.
SORAYA GONZALEZ is a biracial Latina producer with experience in post-production on the award-winning documentary feature films 26.2 To Life and The Body Politic. A Los Angeles native, she earned her bachelor's degree in film and media producing from Cal State University Northridge, with a minor in business management.
She has since been building her career in the film industry, producing Shades of Pink (2023), Polaroid (2024), Ucronia (2024), and Driftin on a Memory (2024). Soraya recently joined Verloren Productions as a Producer, where she continues to develop and co-produce both short and feature-length films.
MADISON FITTS is a Georgia native who discovered her passion for storytelling early on, performing in regional theater and student films before earning a scholarship to study acting at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. Trained at Stonestreet Film and Television Conservatory and Playwright’s Horizons, she honed her craft in both stage and screen while also completing a minor in Business, Entertainment, Media and Technology at NYU.
Now based in LA, Madison appeared in numerous independent films and web series before pivoting into writing and directing. While working in TV production at Walt Disney Company, she made her directorial debut with short film Socks and Flying Saucers which Lauren produced under Madison's production company Misfit Films. Madison also produced Lauren's first short film, Palmdale. Currently, she's writing her first feature screenplay and working in development at 42 in Beverly Hills.
CORINNE SANTORO is an experienced creative project manager and Girl Who Gets Things Done. In her time spent in the working world, she has fought for women's rights and our environment, helped legalize cannabis in California, brought women's sexual health to the male-dominated Consumer Electronics Show, and built a successful career in the ad agency world.
She's now embracing herself as an artist, creating experimental mixed-media docu-style content. She's committed to supporting good people doing cool things, and really thinks you should give Bag Boys a chance.
DANNY TRAN is a first-generation Asian American based in Los Angeles. He has had an interests in the arts from a young age but chose to pursue a more technical field. His studies brought him to the University of Southern California where he majored in Mathematics. After moving to Los Angeles for school, he worked in various roles within the banking industry (Software Engineer, Business Development, Management) while currently managing the technical group in a cybersecurity firm.
He currently is pursuing his studies in film at Los Angeles City College. Danny hopes to bring his technical experience outside of the film industry in managing robust teams into the film world. Currently he is helping others with projects within the experimental film genre. His tasks range from financing to managing various preproduction elements.
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STEPHEN WALSH is an experienced filmmaker and producer. Starting out as a PA on King Richard and Star Trek: Picard, Stephen moved up the production department from show to show for several years before transitioning to independent producing. Stephen resides in Koreatown with his wife Layla, and loves films that make him pause in the theater lobby and evaluate his own media literacy. His great ambition is to remake Titan A.E. in live action.
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MAGALLY BURGESS, a Rotterdam (the Netherlands) native, brings a keen eye for detail and continuity to every production she works on. With a background in Nursing, she possesses a deep understanding of human behavior, which enriches her meticulous approach to storytelling. Her lifelong passion for film has led her through a multi-faceted journey in Acting, Screenwriting, Directing, and Producing, ultimately shaping her expertise as a Script Supervisor and Script Coordinator.
A lover of Film Noir and Dramedies, Magally ensures that every scene unfolds with seamless precision while preserving the emotional depth, humor, and suspense that define compelling narratives.
IAN DELEÓN (he/him) is a writer, filmmaker, programmer and performer based in Los Angeles, CA. His work is informed by the warmth of a multicultural upbringing in the tropics and the icy demeanor of a lifetime steeped in the strange and grotesque. His first major narrative work, Velvet Cry was screened nationally and received numerous commendations for its excellence in production design and montage.
Ian was recently awarded a Master's Degree in Screenwriting + Film Studies from Hollins University, where his thesis project focused on the Hollywood life of early-talkies Mexican starlet Lupita Tovar. He is currently pursuing union membership at the IATSE Camera Local 600 through Hollywood CPR and West LA College.
CLARENCE DENG is an LA based filmmaker whose short film and music video work has played at festivals like LA Shorts, LA Lift-Off and New Filmmakers LA, as well as on platforms like Film Shortage and Beyond the Short.
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CHRIS MORENO, born and raised in the San Fernando Valley, has an undeniable connection to the community he calls home. His grandfather owned a small corner store in the city of San Fernando, instilling in him a deep appreciation for the neighborhood’s rich culture and working-class spirit. More than just a collaborator, Chris is Lauren’s Niño (godfather) and has been part of her filmmaking journey since the very beginning, back when she would shoot videos on her iPhone and call him up to test out her latest lenses. He starred in her first film, Last Call, and has remained a trusted artistic partner ever since.
Beyond acting, his deep-rooted knowledge of the Valley has made him an invaluable asset to Bag Boys as its location scout, ensuring the film authentically captures the essence of the area. He also had a significant role in Sock and Flying Saucers, the directorial debut of Madison Fitts, who is also the producer of Bag Boys. Having been involved with Bag Boys since its earliest stages, Chris is excited to help bring this important story to life.
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NATALIE CAMBEL is a film/TV/stage/SFX makeup artist, set dresser, set painter, and former video editor based in Los Angeles, CA. She is currently working on obtaining her license in Cosmetology at LA Trade Tech College.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
The heart of BAG BOYS was born out of a deeply emotional and transformative moment for my brother — the Writer/Creator, Daniel Moreno. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, he worked at a grocery store, battling the stress and fear of being on the front lines while grappling with an even heavier burden — THE FEELING THAT HE WAS NEVER GOING TO AMOUNT TO ANYTHING.
One night, he called me in tears, overwhelmed and unsure of how much longer he could go on at the store. But in that vulnerable moment, he shared an idea that had been quietly forming in his mind — A STORY ABOUT A GROCERY STORE "BAG BOY" WITH BIG DREAMS FOR SOMETHING MORE.
As we began to develop the concept, a realization hit us! Working at a grocery store had always been a pivotal marker in our family's history.
Our great-grandfather owned a small corner market in the CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, where our grandmother, her siblings and eventually our father all worked. The store was more than just a workplace, it was a testament to the resilience and determination of our family.
It represented the sacrifices they made, the challenges they overcame, and THE DREAMS THEY QUIETLY NURTURED.
For several years now, Daniel and I have poured our hearts into crafting this story, a journey marked by many fights, challenges, and even tears. Through it all, we persevered, driven by an unwavering belief that this story was MEANT TO BE SHARED WITH THE WORLD.
BAG BOYS is more than just a heartfelt story about a grocery store — it’s a profound exploration of the UNDERDOG SPIRIT and delves into the unseen burdens so many carry while reaching for something greater. At its foundation, it honors the everyday individual who perseveres in the face of adversity and turns that PAIN INTO THEIR DESTINY
This show celebrates the truth that even in the most ordinary places, extraordinary dreams can flourish — AND THOSE DREAMS DESERVE TO BE SEEN, HEARD, AND CELEBRATED.
For Daniel Arnez, our lead character, cinema is more than entertainment — it’s his escape, his coping mechanism, and how he interprets the world around him.
When emotions run high, Daniel’s imagination takes over, reinterpreting his reality as scenes from his favorite films.
After hitting a customer’s car with a cart, he pictures the incident as a Frankenstein nightmare, with the customer turning into a towering, monstrous figure chasing him.
A confrontation with his boss becomes a Godfather-style drama, filled with gripping intensity.
These vivid sequences are more than just escapism — they reveal Daniel’s inner world.
Ultimately, this film celebrates the transformative power of cinema — how it shapes identity, fuels ambition, and provides a lens through which we understand ourselves. Through Daniel’s eyes, it highlights the urgent need to expand the landscape of Latino storytelling.
Bag Boys is not just a story — it’s a call to action in a time when the need for representation has never been more urgent.
Latinos make up nearly 50% of Los Angeles County's population, yet our stories remain vastly underrepresented in the industry.
According to the 2024 McKinsey Study, Latinos represent less than 5% of leading on-screen, off-screen, and executive leadership roles in the film industry.
Some of our stories have been told, but it’s not enough.
To truly reflect the authenticity and diversity of our experiences, we must all tell our stories because one Latino story is not a monolith for all.
While Bag Boys focuses on Latino and Hispanic experiences, its message is UNIVERSAL.
Across all cultures, people grapple with questions of identity, belonging, and connection to their past. This film hopes to inspire audiences from all walks of life to learn about, embrace, and take pride in their heritage.
By exploring where we come from, we not only uncover a deeper sense of self but also discover the profound connection to our historical lineage and the immense resilience of those who paved the way for us.
The San Fernando Valley has always been a paradox — a place brimming with history, culture, and life, sitting just over the hill from Hollywood, yet often overlooked by the industry it helped build. Decades ago, the Valley’s streets served as the backdrop for countless iconic shows and films, shaping the golden age of entertainment.
Long before the bright lights of Hollywood, this land was Mexico, and its Latino roots run deep. For centuries, we have lived, worked, and thrived here, shaping the identity of California itself. Yet our stories, rich and vibrant, and full of humanity — have been relegated to the sidelines.
BAG BOYS isn’t just a heartfelt story — it's paying homage to the San Fernando Valley and the extraordinary people who have shaped and continue to inspire its greatness. It’s about reclaiming our place in the narrative, breaking through barriers, and telling the untold stories of a community that has always been here, even when Hollywood didn’t see us.
The San Fernando Valley isn’t just a backdrop — it’s a testament to the resilience of our culture and history.
With Bag Boys, we’re pushing ourselves even further — bringing the same level of excellence and raw storytelling that made Palmdale an award-winning film. Palmdale earned Best Drama and multiple nominations, including Best Actress, Best Supporting Actress, Best Score, and Best Writing, with official selections at festivals such as the Valley Film Festival, Portland Film Festival, North Hollywood CineFest, Sherman Oaks Film Festival, SIMI Film Fest, LA Independent Women Film Awards, and Pasadena International Film Festival.
Being honored as Best Emerging Director and Best L.A. Filmmaker reinforced my commitment to telling bold, human stories that capture both the depth of performance and the authenticity of the world they inhabit.
Bag Boys blends the surrealism of Atlanta with the raw, grounded feel of Reservation Dogs, capturing the underdog spirit and tackling social issues. Its vibrant, cinematic aesthetic draws from La La Land, while the ensemble workplace dynamics echo Superstore. Inspired by This Fool, it incorporates sharp dark humor and comedian-driven, semi-unscripted moments.
Our production goal is $10,000, and we need to reach at least 80% to get funded. These funds will cover the BASICS OF PRODUCTION — cast and crew wages, food, equipment, production design, locations, permits and insurance.
This is the foundation we need to bring BAG BOYS to life.
Cast (21.5%)
The heart of our story. We’re committed to assembling a talented cast, with a mix of working actors and rising talent, all fairly compensated for their work.
Crew (20.5%)
The backbone of production. This budget supports the skilled professionals handling cinematography, lighting, sound, and set construction.
Equipment (16%)
Professional cameras, lighting, and sound gear to capture the vibrant essence of the San Fernando Valley with cinematic quality.
Locations & Permits (11.5%)
Covers permits and securing dynamic locations that bring Bag Boys to life.
Insurance (11%)
Safety first. Ensures coverage for the cast, crew, and equipment, including SAG-AFTRA contributions for actors' pension and health plans.
Production Design (10%)
Crafting a visually rich world, from the grocery store’s details to the nostalgic charm of the Arnez family home.
Catering & Craft Services (9.5%)
Keeping the team fueled for long shooting days.
While this is enough to get started, we dream of doing more. Meeting our goal will allow us to pay our team fairly and produce something of high quality. But if we exceed it, we'll unlock STRETCH GOALS to take Bag Boys TO THE NEXT LEVEL.
Here’s how your contribution will MAKE AN IMPACT:
- $10,000: Covers basic production essentials (cast, crew, equipment, food, insurance, and locations).
- $15,000 - (STRETCH GOAL): Allows us to hire additional crew, upgrade equipment like camera lenses, and increase production design budget to truly capture Daniel’s cinematic daydreams.
- $20,000–$25,000 - (FULL STRETCH GOAL): Funds post-production (editing, sound mixing, music licensing, color grading, VFX) and supports marketing and distribution, ensuring Bag Boys gets seen and celebrated.
This $25,000 TOTAL will cover PRE-PRODUCTION, PRODUCTION, and POST-PRODUCTION, allowing us create a pilot that looks and feels far beyond its cost!
We are excited to announce our partnership with Los Angeles City College (LACC) and are grateful to have received a grant that has helped us cover some of our pre-production costs. However, it’s only a start, and we still need your support to bring this project to life.
By donating to this campaign, you’re not just helping us tell an incredible story — you’re also providing LACC students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience on a real set. This is a chance for them to see that there’s a place for them in this industry and to build the confidence and skills they need for their future.
Your contribution will make a real difference, both in the success of our film and in inspiring the next generation of filmmakers!
Making a project like BAG BOYS is a labor of love, requiring both TIME, MONEY & SUPPORT. This budget isn’t just about making a single film — it’s about proving the value of authentic Latino stories in an industry that too often overlooks them.
By contributing to this campaign, you’re not just helping us create BAG BOYS. You’re investing in FUTURE LATINO STORIES and helping to break barriers in an industry that needs more diverse voices. Every dollar you contribute is a step toward making this dream a reality — and creating something you can be PROUD TO BE APART OF.
With your support, we can make a film that looks VISUALLY STUNNING, feel AUTHENTIC, and INSPIRES OTHERS TO DREAM BIG!
Thank you for helping us make BAG BOYS a reality!
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Thank you for your support,
The Bag Boys Team
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Cast
Costs $2,200
Ensuring fair compensation for a talented cast, including name talent, to deliver captivating and authentic performances.
Crew
Costs $2,050
Supporting the skilled professionals behind the scenes who bring every aspect of the production to life.
Equipment
Costs $1,300
Covering the rental of professional-grade cameras, lighting, and sound gear to achieve a polished and cinematic look.
Location & Permits
Costs $1,250
Securing beautiful, authentic locations and permits to ground the story in its unique setting.
Insurance
Costs $1,100
Protecting the cast, crew, and equipment with essential production insurance for a safe and smooth shoot.
Production Design
Costs $900
This fund will cover the creation of sets, props, and visual elements that bring the story to life and reflect the world of the film.
Catering & Craft Services
Costs $1,200
Providing meals and snacks to keep our hardworking cast and crew energized and focused throughout production.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
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About This Team
LAUREN MORENO is an award-winning, filmmaker from the San Fernando Valley. Her directorial debut, Palmdale, has been widely recognized, winning Best Drama and earning nominations across multiple categories, including Best Actress, Best Supporting Actress, Best Score, and Best Writing. Lauren herself has won Best Emerging Director and Best L.A. Filmmaker, further solidifying her place as a rising voice in independent cinema. The film has been selected for several festivals and is still making its rounds on the festival circuit. She has also produced several other projects, expanding her creative reach beyond directing.
For over four years now, Lauren has been developing her latest project, Bag Boys, alongside her brother, crafting a story that continues her exploration of identity, resilience, and connection. As a director, she puts a strong emphasis on performance, creating a space where actors can fully immerse themselves in their characters and explore the emotional depth of their roles. Committed to amplifying underrepresented voices, Lauren’s work captures the complexity of human emotion and the beauty found in everyday life. At her core, she is a storyteller searching for what makes us human.
DANIEL MORENO is a filmmaker and writer from the San Fernando Valley with a deep love for cinema and film history. Drawing from his own life, he crafts stories with humor, heart, and authenticity. His latest project, Bag Boys, is inspired by his time as a grocery store clerk and reflects his commitment to telling meaningful, character-driven narratives. A former student of Los Angeles Valley College, he studied film and took Introduction to Diversity in Cinema, a course that deepened his dedication to amplifying underrepresented voices.
As a filmmaker who has dealt with his own disabilities his whole life, Daniel has never let them define or limit him. Instead, they have shaped his perspective, fueling his drive to tell personal and resonant stories - especially those rooted in the Latino experience. With Bag Boys, he's just getting started, determined to bring bold, original stories to the screen.
GAVIN WYNN, a visionary filmmaker and cinematographer, brings a deep love for storytelling and striking visual artistry to every project he undertakes. A native of the San Gabriel Valley, he grew up watching his father cook in small Chinese restaurants and his mother work night shifts in data processing, instilling in him a relentless work ethic and a spirit of independence. A latch-key kid with a boundless imagination, Gavin spent his childhood crafting fantastical worlds, much to the frustration of teachers who sent home notes about his constant daydreaming.
That same dreamer’s spirit led him to film school, where he fell in love with the poetic cinema of Wong Kar-Wai, the bold innovations of Orson Welles, and the evocative imagery of Claire Denis. His career has since spanned feature films, television, and documentaries, including Miss Navajo, which premiered at Sundance, and his latest film, set to screen at the Zsigmond Vilmos International Film Festival.
With years in the camera department on acclaimed series like Modern Family, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Party Down, Cyrus, and Colin in Black & White, Gavin has built a career collaborating with some of the industry’s best. Reuniting with Lauren after their film Palmdale, he continues to push the boundaries of filmmaking, blending his parents’ work ethic with his passion for cinematic beauty. He strives to create a cinema utopia — one filled with peace and happiness. And if you share this vision, he’d love to sing karaoke with you.
DYLAN SHIELDS has been a cinema professor in the LACCD for over 14 years and has worked in the industry for nearly 30. He grew up as a non-Native on the Duck Valley Indian Reservation in Nevada/Idaho and attended UNLV where he earned a BA in Film Studies. He worked in production in Las Vegas before moving to Los Angeles to attend AFI where he earned an MFA in screenwriting. Dylan's industry experience includes several years as an executive assistant, manager, production manager, line producer, and producer with his first feature film premiering at the Sundance Film Festival.
Dylan has been actively acquiring and managing grants to support advanced level films from underrepresented voices in the entertainment industry and greater collaboration among the cinema and theater departments at LACC. Since 2017 he has produced and overseen production on over a dozen short films that have been accepted into 15+ festivals, won 7+ awards, earned hundreds of work credits for students, and assisted students in being accepted into the top film schools. His latest effort, Bag Boys, is a love letter to cinema and a call to amplify Latino voices. Additionally, Dylan is working with an LACC student to produce a feature length documentary on the Whitestone Hill Memorial Ride that takes place annually in North & South Dakota.
JOE PERACCHIO Joe currently serves as Story/Script Consultant on a new series in Brazil and a feature film in India, both through his deal with Netflix International. He recently served as Consulting Producer on a series for MediaCorp Television in Singapore and on several series in development for Netflix in Saudi Arabia. He’s written & produced for DECEPTION on ABC & THE FLASH on the CW Network, both for Warner Bros TV, and for THE MESSENGERS for CBS/CW. He was part of the producing team for ESPN's 30for30 documentary TROJAN WAR and was a writer & actor for the Emmy nominated FENCES on PBS for two seasons. He’s been nominated for numerous awards including the Humanitas Drama & New Voices Fellowships.
Joe received his MFA in screenwriting from USC's School of Cinematic Arts where he is now a professor. A graduate of the Warner Bros. TV Writers Program, Joe has trained writers for both the WB and Disney/ABC Writers Programs, teaches Screenwriting for Actors at Ivana Chubbuck Studio in LA, both screenwriting and acting for Los Angeles City College, and works abroad extensively training international writers through the Middle East Media Initiative (MEMI), the Red Sea International Film Festival’s Series Labs in Saudi Arabia, and in every corner of the globe for Netflix.
Joe starred in The CW's acclaimed TV drama series EASY MONEY from the producers of THE SOPRANOS among many other screen roles, and has performed and directed theatre internationally for over two decades. He is the Founding Artistic Director of Tricklock Company, University of New Mexico’s theatre in residence; creator of the Revolutions International Theatre Festival; and founding producer of both the Rubicon International Theatre Festival and California International Theatre Festival. Born in Connecticut, Joe grew up on the US/Mexico border, and lives in LA with his two daughters.
SORAYA GONZALEZ is a biracial Latina producer with experience in post-production on the award-winning documentary feature films 26.2 To Life and The Body Politic. A Los Angeles native, she earned her bachelor's degree in film and media producing from Cal State University Northridge, with a minor in business management.
She has since been building her career in the film industry, producing Shades of Pink (2023), Polaroid (2024), Ucronia (2024), and Driftin on a Memory (2024). Soraya recently joined Verloren Productions as a Producer, where she continues to develop and co-produce both short and feature-length films.
MADISON FITTS is a Georgia native who discovered her passion for storytelling early on, performing in regional theater and student films before earning a scholarship to study acting at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. Trained at Stonestreet Film and Television Conservatory and Playwright’s Horizons, she honed her craft in both stage and screen while also completing a minor in Business, Entertainment, Media and Technology at NYU.
Now based in LA, Madison appeared in numerous independent films and web series before pivoting into writing and directing. While working in TV production at Walt Disney Company, she made her directorial debut with short film Socks and Flying Saucers which Lauren produced under Madison's production company Misfit Films. Madison also produced Lauren's first short film, Palmdale. Currently, she's writing her first feature screenplay and working in development at 42 in Beverly Hills.
CORINNE SANTORO is an experienced creative project manager and Girl Who Gets Things Done. In her time spent in the working world, she has fought for women's rights and our environment, helped legalize cannabis in California, brought women's sexual health to the male-dominated Consumer Electronics Show, and built a successful career in the ad agency world.
She's now embracing herself as an artist, creating experimental mixed-media docu-style content. She's committed to supporting good people doing cool things, and really thinks you should give Bag Boys a chance.
DANNY TRAN is a first-generation Asian American based in Los Angeles. He has had an interests in the arts from a young age but chose to pursue a more technical field. His studies brought him to the University of Southern California where he majored in Mathematics. After moving to Los Angeles for school, he worked in various roles within the banking industry (Software Engineer, Business Development, Management) while currently managing the technical group in a cybersecurity firm.
He currently is pursuing his studies in film at Los Angeles City College. Danny hopes to bring his technical experience outside of the film industry in managing robust teams into the film world. Currently he is helping others with projects within the experimental film genre. His tasks range from financing to managing various preproduction elements.
STEPHEN WALSH is an experienced filmmaker and producer. Starting out as a PA on King Richard and Star Trek: Picard, Stephen moved up the production department from show to show for several years before transitioning to independent producing. Stephen resides in Koreatown with his wife Layla, and loves films that make him pause in the theater lobby and evaluate his own media literacy. His great ambition is to remake Titan A.E. in live action.
MAGALLY BURGESS, a Rotterdam (the Netherlands) native, brings a keen eye for detail and continuity to every production she works on. With a background in Nursing, she possesses a deep understanding of human behavior, which enriches her meticulous approach to storytelling. Her lifelong passion for film has led her through a multi-faceted journey in Acting, Screenwriting, Directing, and Producing, ultimately shaping her expertise as a Script Supervisor and Script Coordinator.
A lover of Film Noir and Dramedies, Magally ensures that every scene unfolds with seamless precision while preserving the emotional depth, humor, and suspense that define compelling narratives.
IAN DELEÓN (he/him) is a writer, filmmaker, programmer and performer based in Los Angeles, CA. His work is informed by the warmth of a multicultural upbringing in the tropics and the icy demeanor of a lifetime steeped in the strange and grotesque. His first major narrative work, Velvet Cry was screened nationally and received numerous commendations for its excellence in production design and montage.
Ian was recently awarded a Master's Degree in Screenwriting + Film Studies from Hollins University, where his thesis project focused on the Hollywood life of early-talkies Mexican starlet Lupita Tovar. He is currently pursuing union membership at the IATSE Camera Local 600 through Hollywood CPR and West LA College.
CLARENCE DENG is an LA based filmmaker whose short film and music video work has played at festivals like LA Shorts, LA Lift-Off and New Filmmakers LA, as well as on platforms like Film Shortage and Beyond the Short.
CHRIS MORENO, born and raised in the San Fernando Valley, has an undeniable connection to the community he calls home. His grandfather owned a small corner store in the city of San Fernando, instilling in him a deep appreciation for the neighborhood’s rich culture and working-class spirit. More than just a collaborator, Chris is Lauren’s Niño (godfather) and has been part of her filmmaking journey since the very beginning, back when she would shoot videos on her iPhone and call him up to test out her latest lenses. He starred in her first film, Last Call, and has remained a trusted artistic partner ever since.
Beyond acting, his deep-rooted knowledge of the Valley has made him an invaluable asset to Bag Boys as its location scout, ensuring the film authentically captures the essence of the area. He also had a significant role in Sock and Flying Saucers, the directorial debut of Madison Fitts, who is also the producer of Bag Boys. Having been involved with Bag Boys since its earliest stages, Chris is excited to help bring this important story to life.
NATALIE CAMBEL is a film/TV/stage/SFX makeup artist, set dresser, set painter, and former video editor based in Los Angeles, CA. She is currently working on obtaining her license in Cosmetology at LA Trade Tech College.