Breaking Plans
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Drama, Teen
‘Breaking Plans’ is written & co-directed by 9 year old filmmaker, London Houghton. She also plays 'Emma'. With an over 80% female team, the production supports women in film, in addition to young actors & filmmakers. This teen drama explores family issues and the relative importance of friendships.
Breaking Plans
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Drama, Teen
1 Campaigns | California, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $6,494 for post-production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
48 supporters | followers
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‘Breaking Plans’ is written & co-directed by 9 year old filmmaker, London Houghton. She also plays 'Emma'. With an over 80% female team, the production supports women in film, in addition to young actors & filmmakers. This teen drama explores family issues and the relative importance of friendships.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Synopsis: Emma, Sarah, and Amelia are best friends navigating their way through 5th-grade life together. The friendship is tested when Sarah seemingly abandons Emma, Amelia and their school project to hang out with Emma's older brother, Drake.
The story explores the struggles of children who encounter family challenges, the avenues of support, trust, integrity and the importance of genuine and strong friendships in our lives.
London wrote the film for several reasons, including but not limited to illustrating the heightened importance of friends and siblings during times when life at home is difficult, and to encourage and show young filmmakers it is possible to tell your stories through the art of filmmaking no matter how old you are.
Timing: Principle photography (filming) was recently completed in Seal Beach, California (summer of 2023). Post-production will commence once the green light has been achieved via the Seed and Spark campaign, and is expected to be completed by January of 2024.
Funding: The funds will be utilized and applied to the post-production and festival process.
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Film Finalization
Costs $200
This helps creates cinematic and finalized versions of the film, which can be shown in cinemas.
Professional Editing
Costs $1,000
Experience in editing is essential to ensure the captured footage is brought together to effectively produce a quality film.
Color Grading
Costs $1,000
Color grading harmoniously and consistently delivers the visual feel of the film, while addressing and correcting visual issues.
Musical Score
Costs $1,000
An original musical score created by a composer ensures the desired emotions felt specifically through music are tailored to the film.
Film Festivals
Costs $1,000
Submitting and representing the film via festivals is one of the key goals in making and sharing it with everyone.
Sound Design
Costs $1,000
Sound Editing and Design are important in incorporating professional sound levels and sound effects throughout the film.
Share this update!
About This Team
Breaking Plans' is written and co-directed by London Houghton, who also plays 'Emma' in the film. There is an exceptional, talented and devoted team behind the project, which includes an incredible ensemble of female filmmakers.
Writer, Co-Director and 'Emma'
London Houghton
At just 10 years old, London Houghton is a young filmmaker from Seal Beach, California, who has been passionate about film and creative arts her entire life. Discovering a natural ability and talent for writing as a student at McGaugh Elementary School, London developed the story behind 'Breaking Plans' in 2022. Shortly after turning 9 years old, she asked for the screenwriting software 'Final Draft', and wrote her first official screenplay and first draft for 'Breaking Plans' in December of 2022. As a humble yet confident person, London has identified and continues to surround herself with positive mentors and role-models, while also making sure to enjoy life as a young person with her friends and family.
Producer
Baylee Corona
Baylee Corona is an American producer, who has worked on multiple projects at Dreamotion Studios, including Breaking Plans, D List, and Dry Shampoo (music video). She graduated in 2023 with an MFA in TV Writing and Producing from Chapman's Dodge College of Film and Media Arts. London adores and admires Baylee, and is delighted to have her guidance, energy and creative excellence on the project.
Producer
Ella Greenwood
Considered by London Houghton to be a strong personal mentor, Ella Greenwood is an award-winning filmmaker and a FORBES 30 Under 30 Honoree. At age 18, she founded Broken Flames Productions and wrote, directed and produced her first film 'Faulty Roots', which was selected for BAFTA Qualifying festivals including Carmarthen Bay where she won the Rising Star Award. She has continued to write, direct and produce a range of projects, which have starred BAFTA & Olivier Award Winners. Ella has collaborated with Dreamotion Studios on several ventures, including the recent film 'Once Upon a Riot'. Ella is an ambassador for Stem4, which is a leading mental health charity, and mental health and raising relative awareness is a focus and of significant importance to her.
Producer
Maya Bartley O'Dea
Another strong mentor for London, Maya Bartley O'Dea joined Broken Flames Productions as a Producer and has worked on numerous projects promoting the support of mental health. She is also a co-producer on the Dreamotion Studios film, 'Once Upon a Riot', which was filmed in London and Los Angeles and supported by Broken Flames Productions. Maya also stars in the film in the role of 'Dawn'. In addition to her producer and actor credits, Maya is Co-Director of the Lucas A. Ferrara Film Fund and leads the development of Broken Flames' upcoming projects including features, documentaries and TV shows.
Co-Director
Paul James Houghton
Paul James Houghton is an award-winning Filmmaker, Director, Writer, Creative Producer and the founder of Dreamotion Studios. He is working on projects directly with a major studio in Los Angeles, in addition to numerous independent and collaborative creative projects via his production company and studio. Paul is a proud supporter of equality and diversity in his professional and personal life, and a fine role model for his 2 young daughters. His directorial debut was the award-winning short film, 'From Under The Bridge: When Bullies Become Trolls', which is centered around bullying and cyber-bullying and is based on real events. Paul also wrote the screenplay for this film, which has won many awards including multiple 'Best Film' wins.
Director of Photography
Brooke Mueller
Brooke Mueller is a Cinematographer from Minneapolis, Minnesota. After moving to Los Angeles for film school, Brooke found herself on set more often than not and began freelancing full-time in both Camera and Lighting Departments. Her focus lately has been on feature length films, music videos, and documentaries. With experience on over 40 projects, including many directly behind the camera, Brooke is an essential and exciting member of the Breaking Plans team.
1st Assistant Director
Marianne Amelinckx
Marianne Amelinckx has worked on several Dreamotion Studios projects as an exceptional, highly-respected and trusted member of the creative team. As a talented Writer/Director based in Los Angeles, California, Marianne has focused on telling female-driven and queer stories. Her short film Salta received the Jury's Mention at the Tribeca Festival 2017 and won Best Short Film at the Pink Apple LGBTQ+ Film Festival. In 2021 she directed Mustache Mondays, a documentary for PBS SoCal about queer nightlife in Los Angeles, which premiered at Outfest and won the LA Press Award for best LGBT Feature 2022. In 2022, Marianne co-directed Blessed and Highly Favored, a project that won the NALIP Women of Color TV Incubator and the Yes and Laughter Lab for Social Impact Comedy. Most recently, she was selected as a finalist in the prestigious Shondaland’s Women Directing Mentorship Program 2023.
1st Assistant Camera
Bethani Mosher
Bethani Mosher is a Camera Assistant and Film Loader based in Los Angeles, CA, USA. Born and raised in Massachusetts, she earned her Associate of Science degree in Broadcasting and Electronic Media from MWCC and completed an internship at MediaBoss Television before moving to Los Angeles in 2018. An active member of the community, she serves as an ambassador for AC Friends, created as a safe space to share knowledge and provide workshop opportunities within the camera department. Beyond work, she is a certified scuba diver and enjoys film photography. She has her PADI Open Water Diver certification and underwater camera housing experience. Bethani is a delight to have on set and has been an instant hit with the entire team.
Gaffer
Allysa Lisbon
Allysa Lisbon is a DP and conceptual photographer based in Los Angeles. Her work explores ideas of heritage, memory, complexities of the Black diaspora and gender/sexuality. She is inspired by Black radical artists, past, present, and future. She is enchanted by the expanse and the infinite and finds beauty in moments that are often overlooked. Allysa graduated from Georgetown University with a bachelor’s in American Studies and Film and Media Studies and currently pursuing her MFA in cinematography at American Film Institute. She works commercially throughout the LA area and is the founder of Saturn Studios, an independent production company which is available for hire as a futuristic collective of media makers.
Key Grip
Kelly Pong
Originally from Missouri, Kelly Pong is a multi-talented Los Angeles based Grip with a background in luxury packaging & graphic design. She earned a B.S. in Industrial Management, with additional focus on Graphic Design, from Missouri State University. Additionally, she has achieved certification in Film and TV Production from West Los Angeles College. Kelly brings to film projects her multi-faceted passions in mechanics, materials and art, as well as her love and desire for a good challenge.
Wardrobe/ Costume Design
Lorraine Ely
Lorraine Ely is a phenomenal costume designer and wardrobe supervisor who has worked with Dreamotion Studios on multiple projects over the years, including 'From Under The Bridge', 'Once Upon a Riot', 'D-List', 'Dry Shampoo' and now 'Breaking Plans'. Growing up on the same street as Paul in England but attending different schools, they learned they lived just a few miles away from one another in California in 2010 and the personal and professional bond was born. Lorraine is a true role-model of the highest quality, injects pride, dedication and enthusiasm into every project she joins, is a joy to have on set and is a trusted member of the crew. Simply put, you can always count on Lorraine to deliver.
Hair & Makeup Artist
Jaya Loo
Jaya Loo is an extraordinary performing artist (known as Koraloo), hair stylist, make-up artist and actress. Jaya has worked with Dreamotion Studios and Paul directly on a number of projects, including the recent production of her music video 'Dry Shampoo', which Paul personally directed. Jaya is a joy to have on set and London is a personal fan.
Sound Mixer
Gary Cunningham
Gary Cunningham is a fabulous sound recordist, engineer and designer, who has worked with Dreamotion Studios on the film 'D-List', in addition to capturing sound on Dreamotion Studios auditions. With over 25 IMDb credits, a positive on-set energy and a wonderful sense of humor, Gary is a great addition to the team.
Script Supervisor
Eddie Vigil V
Eddie Vigil V is a director and writer living in Los Angeles, CA. Prior to his move to Los Angeles, Eddie managed a volunteer film group (Reno Film Collective) comprised of 150+ creative individuals from 2015-2018. He has produced 70+ narrative short films, a web series (spanning 10 episodes), and many promotional pieces for local businesses. He also produces a podcast, which has surpassed 100 episodes. With significant experience as a script supervisor and 1st assistant director, Eddie has had the unique opportunity of collaborating with many directors up close, allowing him to pick up new tricks to take back to his own directing chair. He has worked on several Dreamotion Studios projects, and is highly respected by the founder, Paul.
Production Assistant
Lara Sugden
After working with Dreamotion Studios in London, England on the film 'Once Upon a Riot', Lara Sugden was offered a summer internship with the studio in Los Angeles, California this year. In addition to her contributions on several Dreamotion Studios projects, Lara has worked with ITV, Tiger Aspect Productions, MET Film School and Broken Flames Productions, as a professional Runner and Assistant Director over the past year. As a dedicated film student at Bournemouth University, with skills in production assisting, management, video editing, time management and organization, Lara is always looking to add to her experience in the world of Film and TV.
Actors:
London Houghton - Emma
Gracelyn Surtees - Sarah
Zoe Tran-Wofford - Amelia
Carter Dau - Drake
Luc Clopton - Mr. McGaugh
Sophia Sylvan - Sophia
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Synopsis: Emma, Sarah, and Amelia are best friends navigating their way through 5th-grade life together. The friendship is tested when Sarah seemingly abandons Emma, Amelia and their school project to hang out with Emma's older brother, Drake.
The story explores the struggles of children who encounter family challenges, the avenues of support, trust, integrity and the importance of genuine and strong friendships in our lives.
London wrote the film for several reasons, including but not limited to illustrating the heightened importance of friends and siblings during times when life at home is difficult, and to encourage and show young filmmakers it is possible to tell your stories through the art of filmmaking no matter how old you are.
Timing: Principle photography (filming) was recently completed in Seal Beach, California (summer of 2023). Post-production will commence once the green light has been achieved via the Seed and Spark campaign, and is expected to be completed by January of 2024.
Funding: The funds will be utilized and applied to the post-production and festival process.
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Film Finalization
Costs $200
This helps creates cinematic and finalized versions of the film, which can be shown in cinemas.
Professional Editing
Costs $1,000
Experience in editing is essential to ensure the captured footage is brought together to effectively produce a quality film.
Color Grading
Costs $1,000
Color grading harmoniously and consistently delivers the visual feel of the film, while addressing and correcting visual issues.
Musical Score
Costs $1,000
An original musical score created by a composer ensures the desired emotions felt specifically through music are tailored to the film.
Film Festivals
Costs $1,000
Submitting and representing the film via festivals is one of the key goals in making and sharing it with everyone.
Sound Design
Costs $1,000
Sound Editing and Design are important in incorporating professional sound levels and sound effects throughout the film.
Share this update!
About This Team
Breaking Plans' is written and co-directed by London Houghton, who also plays 'Emma' in the film. There is an exceptional, talented and devoted team behind the project, which includes an incredible ensemble of female filmmakers.
Writer, Co-Director and 'Emma'
London Houghton
At just 10 years old, London Houghton is a young filmmaker from Seal Beach, California, who has been passionate about film and creative arts her entire life. Discovering a natural ability and talent for writing as a student at McGaugh Elementary School, London developed the story behind 'Breaking Plans' in 2022. Shortly after turning 9 years old, she asked for the screenwriting software 'Final Draft', and wrote her first official screenplay and first draft for 'Breaking Plans' in December of 2022. As a humble yet confident person, London has identified and continues to surround herself with positive mentors and role-models, while also making sure to enjoy life as a young person with her friends and family.
Producer
Baylee Corona
Baylee Corona is an American producer, who has worked on multiple projects at Dreamotion Studios, including Breaking Plans, D List, and Dry Shampoo (music video). She graduated in 2023 with an MFA in TV Writing and Producing from Chapman's Dodge College of Film and Media Arts. London adores and admires Baylee, and is delighted to have her guidance, energy and creative excellence on the project.
Producer
Ella Greenwood
Considered by London Houghton to be a strong personal mentor, Ella Greenwood is an award-winning filmmaker and a FORBES 30 Under 30 Honoree. At age 18, she founded Broken Flames Productions and wrote, directed and produced her first film 'Faulty Roots', which was selected for BAFTA Qualifying festivals including Carmarthen Bay where she won the Rising Star Award. She has continued to write, direct and produce a range of projects, which have starred BAFTA & Olivier Award Winners. Ella has collaborated with Dreamotion Studios on several ventures, including the recent film 'Once Upon a Riot'. Ella is an ambassador for Stem4, which is a leading mental health charity, and mental health and raising relative awareness is a focus and of significant importance to her.
Producer
Maya Bartley O'Dea
Another strong mentor for London, Maya Bartley O'Dea joined Broken Flames Productions as a Producer and has worked on numerous projects promoting the support of mental health. She is also a co-producer on the Dreamotion Studios film, 'Once Upon a Riot', which was filmed in London and Los Angeles and supported by Broken Flames Productions. Maya also stars in the film in the role of 'Dawn'. In addition to her producer and actor credits, Maya is Co-Director of the Lucas A. Ferrara Film Fund and leads the development of Broken Flames' upcoming projects including features, documentaries and TV shows.
Co-Director
Paul James Houghton
Paul James Houghton is an award-winning Filmmaker, Director, Writer, Creative Producer and the founder of Dreamotion Studios. He is working on projects directly with a major studio in Los Angeles, in addition to numerous independent and collaborative creative projects via his production company and studio. Paul is a proud supporter of equality and diversity in his professional and personal life, and a fine role model for his 2 young daughters. His directorial debut was the award-winning short film, 'From Under The Bridge: When Bullies Become Trolls', which is centered around bullying and cyber-bullying and is based on real events. Paul also wrote the screenplay for this film, which has won many awards including multiple 'Best Film' wins.
Director of Photography
Brooke Mueller
Brooke Mueller is a Cinematographer from Minneapolis, Minnesota. After moving to Los Angeles for film school, Brooke found herself on set more often than not and began freelancing full-time in both Camera and Lighting Departments. Her focus lately has been on feature length films, music videos, and documentaries. With experience on over 40 projects, including many directly behind the camera, Brooke is an essential and exciting member of the Breaking Plans team.
1st Assistant Director
Marianne Amelinckx
Marianne Amelinckx has worked on several Dreamotion Studios projects as an exceptional, highly-respected and trusted member of the creative team. As a talented Writer/Director based in Los Angeles, California, Marianne has focused on telling female-driven and queer stories. Her short film Salta received the Jury's Mention at the Tribeca Festival 2017 and won Best Short Film at the Pink Apple LGBTQ+ Film Festival. In 2021 she directed Mustache Mondays, a documentary for PBS SoCal about queer nightlife in Los Angeles, which premiered at Outfest and won the LA Press Award for best LGBT Feature 2022. In 2022, Marianne co-directed Blessed and Highly Favored, a project that won the NALIP Women of Color TV Incubator and the Yes and Laughter Lab for Social Impact Comedy. Most recently, she was selected as a finalist in the prestigious Shondaland’s Women Directing Mentorship Program 2023.
1st Assistant Camera
Bethani Mosher
Bethani Mosher is a Camera Assistant and Film Loader based in Los Angeles, CA, USA. Born and raised in Massachusetts, she earned her Associate of Science degree in Broadcasting and Electronic Media from MWCC and completed an internship at MediaBoss Television before moving to Los Angeles in 2018. An active member of the community, she serves as an ambassador for AC Friends, created as a safe space to share knowledge and provide workshop opportunities within the camera department. Beyond work, she is a certified scuba diver and enjoys film photography. She has her PADI Open Water Diver certification and underwater camera housing experience. Bethani is a delight to have on set and has been an instant hit with the entire team.
Gaffer
Allysa Lisbon
Allysa Lisbon is a DP and conceptual photographer based in Los Angeles. Her work explores ideas of heritage, memory, complexities of the Black diaspora and gender/sexuality. She is inspired by Black radical artists, past, present, and future. She is enchanted by the expanse and the infinite and finds beauty in moments that are often overlooked. Allysa graduated from Georgetown University with a bachelor’s in American Studies and Film and Media Studies and currently pursuing her MFA in cinematography at American Film Institute. She works commercially throughout the LA area and is the founder of Saturn Studios, an independent production company which is available for hire as a futuristic collective of media makers.
Key Grip
Kelly Pong
Originally from Missouri, Kelly Pong is a multi-talented Los Angeles based Grip with a background in luxury packaging & graphic design. She earned a B.S. in Industrial Management, with additional focus on Graphic Design, from Missouri State University. Additionally, she has achieved certification in Film and TV Production from West Los Angeles College. Kelly brings to film projects her multi-faceted passions in mechanics, materials and art, as well as her love and desire for a good challenge.
Wardrobe/ Costume Design
Lorraine Ely
Lorraine Ely is a phenomenal costume designer and wardrobe supervisor who has worked with Dreamotion Studios on multiple projects over the years, including 'From Under The Bridge', 'Once Upon a Riot', 'D-List', 'Dry Shampoo' and now 'Breaking Plans'. Growing up on the same street as Paul in England but attending different schools, they learned they lived just a few miles away from one another in California in 2010 and the personal and professional bond was born. Lorraine is a true role-model of the highest quality, injects pride, dedication and enthusiasm into every project she joins, is a joy to have on set and is a trusted member of the crew. Simply put, you can always count on Lorraine to deliver.
Hair & Makeup Artist
Jaya Loo
Jaya Loo is an extraordinary performing artist (known as Koraloo), hair stylist, make-up artist and actress. Jaya has worked with Dreamotion Studios and Paul directly on a number of projects, including the recent production of her music video 'Dry Shampoo', which Paul personally directed. Jaya is a joy to have on set and London is a personal fan.
Sound Mixer
Gary Cunningham
Gary Cunningham is a fabulous sound recordist, engineer and designer, who has worked with Dreamotion Studios on the film 'D-List', in addition to capturing sound on Dreamotion Studios auditions. With over 25 IMDb credits, a positive on-set energy and a wonderful sense of humor, Gary is a great addition to the team.
Script Supervisor
Eddie Vigil V
Eddie Vigil V is a director and writer living in Los Angeles, CA. Prior to his move to Los Angeles, Eddie managed a volunteer film group (Reno Film Collective) comprised of 150+ creative individuals from 2015-2018. He has produced 70+ narrative short films, a web series (spanning 10 episodes), and many promotional pieces for local businesses. He also produces a podcast, which has surpassed 100 episodes. With significant experience as a script supervisor and 1st assistant director, Eddie has had the unique opportunity of collaborating with many directors up close, allowing him to pick up new tricks to take back to his own directing chair. He has worked on several Dreamotion Studios projects, and is highly respected by the founder, Paul.
Production Assistant
Lara Sugden
After working with Dreamotion Studios in London, England on the film 'Once Upon a Riot', Lara Sugden was offered a summer internship with the studio in Los Angeles, California this year. In addition to her contributions on several Dreamotion Studios projects, Lara has worked with ITV, Tiger Aspect Productions, MET Film School and Broken Flames Productions, as a professional Runner and Assistant Director over the past year. As a dedicated film student at Bournemouth University, with skills in production assisting, management, video editing, time management and organization, Lara is always looking to add to her experience in the world of Film and TV.
Actors:
London Houghton - Emma
Gracelyn Surtees - Sarah
Zoe Tran-Wofford - Amelia
Carter Dau - Drake
Luc Clopton - Mr. McGaugh
Sophia Sylvan - Sophia