California Scenario
Los Angeles, California | Film Feature
Drama
Divorced single parents Jacob Hara and Laura Acker search for truth in their diverse family narratives, and at Isamu Noguchi’s timeless sculpture garden, find each other.
Green Light
This campaign raised $58,409 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
206 supporters | followers
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Divorced single parents Jacob Hara and Laura Acker search for truth in their diverse family narratives, and at Isamu Noguchi’s timeless sculpture garden, find each other.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
When the revelation of a family secret throws their lives into chaos, Jacob Hara rushes to help his daughter, Lexi. Together they bravely confront the events and circumstances that brought them to this moment.
After escaping an abusive marriage, Laura Acker must find a way to continue to protect herself and her daughter, Phoebe, while still co-parenting with her dysfunctional ex-husband.
Flashbacks to earlier generations of the Haras and Ackers reveal tales of survival from the Japanese American internment and Holocaust -- origin stories of the complex legacies that echo in the present. Jacob and Laura’s seemingly disparate searches for healing and the truth come together in a surprising payoff at Isamu Noguchi’s timeless sculptural garden: California Scenario.
California Scenario examines how our present lives are deeply informed by events of the past. I grew up in the 1980s hearing tales from my relatives about “camp.” Unfortunately those stories weren’t about picturesque summers by the lake, but memories of time spent in internment camps during WWII. I’m only one generation removed from that experience - my mom was born in the Gila River War Relocation Center in Arizona. In the years following the war my family found a way to persevere and thrive, so our stories shared a tone of “all’s well that ends well.”
But when I had my own family, I began to wonder what fills the space left when language and traditions are buried. What psychic scars remain when your entire community is forced from their homes, even if some eventually returned to them? Current research on epigenetics and trans-generational trauma speaks to the ways that the past is encoded in our DNA. I feel that the echoes of the past continue to play out in my life and the lives of of my parents, children and family. I see it in how we avoid conflict and difficult conversations, how we quickly put a positive spin on terrible experiences, and in a tendency towards a fatalism characterized by the Japanese phrase: shikata ga nai (it can’t be helped).
Many years ago, while visiting Japan, I was re-introduced to the transcendent art of Isamu Noguchi -- the most famous 20th century artist whose name you might never have heard. As an art major, I was familiar with his sculpture and design, but I had no idea how fascinating and resonant he would become for me. I discovered that we had much in common. We are both artists who spent time in our early twenties studying art in Europe, who believe that art has the potential to elevate human beings spiritually and socially. We are nikkei-jin (people of Japanese ancestry) who know the feeling of being an outsider in both Japan and the US. He was bi-racial, like my daughters, at a time when that was exceedingly rare. Noguchi's friend Buckminster Fuller called him “the founding member of an omni-crossbred world society.”
This film is not explicitly about Noguchi and his art, but closely relates to his California roots, his time and work in Mexico City, Jerusalem, and Japan, his experience as a bi-racial artist, and his time as a voluntary inmate at the Poston War Relocation Center. I see his life as a collage of fascinating connections and periods which are difficult to grasp until viewed in their entirety. There is a series of Japanese prints by Hokusai titled 36 Views of Mt. Fuji, where the scenes are often focused on what’s happening in the foreground and middle ground, while Mt Fuji is in the distant background -- the most famous example is The Great Wave off Kanazawa. In the case of California Scenario, the film weaves together scenes and characters that appear unrelated but coalesce into a unified whole, all the while connected to Noguchi via the space he created.
California Scenario is influenced by the meandering, simultaneous narratives in Robert Altman’s film Nashville…
...the flashbacks to Nora and Hae Sung’s childhoods in Past Lives…
...the sensitive look at family history in Minari…
…and the past, present, and future timelines of This Is Us.
California Scenario -- the location -- is an abstract, timeless space. Therefore, eras will be differentiated mostly by wardrobe, hair and make up. We will occasionally project video onto the white walls of the plaza to evoke alternate times, places, & memories.
Noguchi’s approach to sculpting stone was to subtract material and find its essence. The film’s composition and movement will strive for simplicity to get to the heart of each scene. We’ll use motivated, elegant handheld camerawork that blends with the motion and emotion of the performances.
We’ve assembled an experienced, talented producing team with decades of experience in both studio and independent filmmaking. Check out their impressive resumes on our Team Page (tab at top of page). Stay tuned for updates as more of our favorite people join the project!
It’s a difficult moment in the film business, and in many of our communities. We believe that by bringing together a cast and crew of friends and filmmakers for this project we can create joy and purpose by doing the thing we all love: telling stories and making things together. By joining us in making California Scenario you’re not only supporting this film, but also supporting our creative community at large.
We plan to shoot the film over 3 weekends in January/February 2025. We feel that this timeline gives us the best opportunity to secure our cast, crew, and equipment while they’re available - before film and TV projects start to pick up again.
Our biggest expense is the $25K location fee to shoot at Noguchi’s 1.6 acre sculpture garden in Costa Mesa, CA. We worked for nearly 6 months to secure the privilege of filming in this one-of-a-kind location. We will seek discounts and donations for production costs including labor and equipment. There are also non-negotiable expenses such as insurance, permits, and media storage. We estimate these costs will total an additional $35K. Should we exceed our goal we have stretch goals like a day filming on location at the Manzanar National Historic Site (250 miles from Los Angeles).
We will submit to top-tier film festivals and plan to have a year of festival screenings & private screenings, allowing us to build word of mouth and audience support before seeking distribution on major platforms.
This budget does not include post-production costs which we intend to raise after the film is shot. We are currently applying for Fiscal Sponsorship so that we can offer tax deductible donations in the future.
The way crowdfunding on Seed & Spark works is that our campaign must hit 80% of our goal to get the “green light” and receive funds. Your financial support at any level is meaningful to our project!
Here are some tips on how to navigate the options:
Incentives
We’ve created special incentives for supporters who give at $25, $50, $150, $250, $500, $1000, and $2500+ levels. We think this is the best value for your support since you get something unique in return!
Click the Incentives tab at the top of the page.
Click anywhere on the Incentive to claim it!
Wishlist
A really cool thing about the Wishlist is the ability to LOAN us an item for the shoot. Our campaign will get the value added towards our goal! For instance, if you loan us your Noguchi Table, our progress increases by $2K!
The other important feature of the Wishlist is that it provides a list of costs so you know how we intend to use our budget. If you click "Make A Pledge" on any Wishlist item you will have the option to Pledge any $ amount you choose.
Pledge
Click the "Make A Pledge" button at the top of the page.
A straightforward pledge of your support in any $ amount.
Please note that Seed & Spark will automatically select a tip for their services. You have the option to select the amount (if any) that you want to tip. Seed & Spark accepts all major credit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay (on Chrome).
No money? No problem! Just give a Click.
Click the "Follow" heart at the top of the page.
Receive entertaining updates on our journey to make this film AND your follow helps us unlock rewards at 250, 500 & 1000 followers!
Click the "Share" icon at the top of the page.
We’re building an audience and we think you’ll find the process of making California Scenario as interesting and exciting as the film itself. If you have friends who would watch a film like California Scenario or who want to see how a micro-budget indie movie gets made share our campaign with a click, good old fashioned word-of-mouth and email.
Click the "Contact" button at the top of the page.
You've got great ideas and we'd love to hear from you!
Follow and Share on our socials:
FB: California Scenario Film Page
We've made it easy for you. Just Copy and Paste:
"Let’s Make Movie Magic! I’m super excited to share that I’ve contributed to the crowdfunding campaign for @california_scenario_film directed by my friend @jtakata! This project is a labor of love, and it’s going to be incredible. Visit www.seedandspark.com/fund/californiascenario to learn more! If you’re passionate about film and storytelling, I invite you to check it out and support this journey. Your help can make a huge difference, and you’ll get some great rewards too!"
James, Dara, Jen, Jhenn, Ashley, Jennie
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Permits
Costs $2,000
Dots for our "i"s and crosses for our "t"s! Maybe even a special visit from a Fire Marshall.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Noguchi Lamp
Costs $500
We would love to use authentic Noguchi lamps to light the scenes and decorate the sets. Can we borrow yours?
Location - Noguchi Sculpture Garden
Costs $25,000
We negotiated for months to get permission to film in this very special location. We are incredibly lucky to have this opportunity!
Professional Camera Package
Costs $5,000
We have top professionals who know how to utilize the right camera, lenses, and equipment to create rich, stunning imagery.
Walkie Talkies & Headsets
Costs $2,500
Walkies keep professional sets running quietly and efficiently. "Copy that!"
Lighting and Grip Package
Costs $5,000
Electricians power and set the lights. Grips shape the light and provide support for cameras and generally get sh*t done.
Insurance
Costs $4,500
The thing that everyone needs and hopes they never have to use. Essential to rent gear and locations.
Location Sound Equipment
Costs $4,000
A film is only as good as its sound! We need to capture the dialogue of this film professionally by renting the right gear.
Costumes
Costs $2,500
Our story takes place in several different time periods. Costumes are an essential part of any film, especially involving flashbacks!
Hair & Make Up
Costs $2,500
Our flashbacks will require period make up and hairstyles. Do you think our actors wake up looking this way?
Expendables
Costs $25
Film sets are held together by tape, velcro, and other sticky substances.
Noguchi Table
Costs $2,000
We would like to use Noguchi's iconic table in one of our scenes. Can we borrow yours?
Cube Truck
Costs $2,000
We will keep a small footprint, but our gear still needs a way to get on set.
Generator
Costs $600
Lights, cameras, and coffee makers need electricity!
4K Video Projector
Costs $475
We want to use video projected onto walls and actors to help create layers of places, time periods, and memories.
SAG/AFTRA Ultra Low Budget Minimum (1 day)
Costs $300
We want to hire professional actors who are members of SAG/AFTRA. We must pay a minimum daily rate + pension & welfare.
Cast & Crew Meals (Weekend)
Costs $500
Home cooked or delivered meals. Just because you can make it through the day on Flamin' Hot Cheetos and Granola Bars doesn't mean it's ok!
Cast & Crew Meals (1 day)
Costs $250
Donate a home cooked or delivered meal. An army marches on its stomach. A film crew cannot subsist for long on Twizzlers and Diet Coke!
External Hard Drive (1 of 4)
Costs $200
We need secure, reliable storage for the pictures and sound.
Craft Services (Weekend)
Costs $100
Don't talk to me until I've had my coffee!
Craft Services (1 day)
Costs $50
Coffee & Donuts. The life blood of any film set.
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
JAMES TAKATA - Director/Co-Writer
James Takata is a film and television director, writer, and cinematographer. James has directed episodes of This Is Us, and The Company You Keep, as well as the feature documentary We the Parents. James is a protégé in the Directors Guild of America's selective 2024 Director Development Mentorship Program. He is a member of the DGA and International Cinematographers Guild Local 600.
DARA RESNIK - Producer/Co-Writer
Dara Resnik is a writer and showrunner whose credits include Aaron Sorkin’s Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip, Pushing Daisies, Mistresses, Castle, Jane the Virgin, Joey Soloway’s I Love Dick, and Marvel’s Daredevil. Dara co-created and co-showran Home Before Dark for Apple TV+, a drama inspired by real-life 13-year-old crime reporter Hilde Lysiak, and she completed co-showrunning The Horror of Dolores Roach for Amazon Studios and Blumhouse Television last year. She is currently developing a limited series about Robert Durst for UCP/Peacock.
JHENNIFER WEBBERLEY - Producer
A Los Angeles native, Jhennifer Webberley is a producer/editor and founding member of Metamorfic Productions. Feature film credits include 7000 Miles, Quality Problems, And Then There Was Eve, Love Danielle, Bread and Butter, Orchard Wedding and Wait Means Never. Webberley also enjoys editing many of her independent projects including Quality Problems, Farewell My King, Only Child and Broken Wings. Recent projects also include the immersive experience for COSM’s Cirque du Soleil’s “O” and immersive short projects for the Beijing Olympics. Webberley holds a MFA (Magna Cum Laude) in Film and Television Production from the USC School of Cinema-Television and a MBA (Magna Cum Laude) from Pepperdine University in Marketing and Strategy
Jen Prince is an independent film producer and editor originally from San Antonio, Texas. Feature producing credits include 7000 Miles, Quality Problems, And Then There Was Eve, and Eve of Understanding. Her work in immersive and virtual reality earned her a Sports Emmy Nomination for Digital Innovation (XXIV OLYMPIC WINTER GAMES First 8k Immersive Livestream). She produced and edited, together with Jhennifer Webberley, an immersive feature-length shared reality experience of Cirque du Soleil’s “O” for the new COSM domes opening around the country. Jen is a graduate of the MFA Film Production Program at USC and earned her BFA in Acting and a BA in Liberal Arts in the Plan II Honors Program at the University of Texas at Austin (Phi Beta Kappa). Post-Production TV Credits include the Emmy Awards, The Contender, and The Amazing Race. She is a faculty member at New York Film Academy in Burbank, CA and serves as a mentor for The University of Texas at Austin.
Ashley Hillis is a seasoned producer with over twenty years of experience in the film industry. A Davis, California native, she holds a BA in Political Science and Philosophy from Wellesley College and an MFA in Producing from USC's Peter Stark Program. Throughout her career, Ashley has collaborated with acclaimed filmmakers like Tony Scott, Rawson Thurber, and Todd Black, honing her craft alongside industry giants. Her breakout project, *Dating My Mother*, featuring Kathryn Erbe and Kathy Najimy, premiered at the Frameline Film Festival and garnered critical acclaim. Ashley is known for her award-winning short films, music videos, and diverse projects ranging from web series to PSAs. She is particularly passionate about stories featuring strong, flawed female characters and explores the complexities of human relationships, especially within dysfunctional families.
Jennie Yamaki is a program management and business operations executive in the entertainment and technology sectors. Most recently, she spent over 6 years at Netflix, where she first served as a physical production executive for the Original Independent Film division before moving into a program management role for the Global Production Strategy & Operations team. Before Netflix, Jennie held physical production executive roles at both start-ups and established companies, managing a diverse slate of digital, film, and television content at companies such as Mattel, Lionsgate, and PopSugar. Early in her career, she was a Line Producer for independent films, most notably Napoleon Dynamite. She also spent 6 years at Mandata Pictures as a physical production executive, overseeing productions such as Harold & Kumar 3.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
When the revelation of a family secret throws their lives into chaos, Jacob Hara rushes to help his daughter, Lexi. Together they bravely confront the events and circumstances that brought them to this moment.
After escaping an abusive marriage, Laura Acker must find a way to continue to protect herself and her daughter, Phoebe, while still co-parenting with her dysfunctional ex-husband.
Flashbacks to earlier generations of the Haras and Ackers reveal tales of survival from the Japanese American internment and Holocaust -- origin stories of the complex legacies that echo in the present. Jacob and Laura’s seemingly disparate searches for healing and the truth come together in a surprising payoff at Isamu Noguchi’s timeless sculptural garden: California Scenario.
California Scenario examines how our present lives are deeply informed by events of the past. I grew up in the 1980s hearing tales from my relatives about “camp.” Unfortunately those stories weren’t about picturesque summers by the lake, but memories of time spent in internment camps during WWII. I’m only one generation removed from that experience - my mom was born in the Gila River War Relocation Center in Arizona. In the years following the war my family found a way to persevere and thrive, so our stories shared a tone of “all’s well that ends well.”
But when I had my own family, I began to wonder what fills the space left when language and traditions are buried. What psychic scars remain when your entire community is forced from their homes, even if some eventually returned to them? Current research on epigenetics and trans-generational trauma speaks to the ways that the past is encoded in our DNA. I feel that the echoes of the past continue to play out in my life and the lives of of my parents, children and family. I see it in how we avoid conflict and difficult conversations, how we quickly put a positive spin on terrible experiences, and in a tendency towards a fatalism characterized by the Japanese phrase: shikata ga nai (it can’t be helped).
Many years ago, while visiting Japan, I was re-introduced to the transcendent art of Isamu Noguchi -- the most famous 20th century artist whose name you might never have heard. As an art major, I was familiar with his sculpture and design, but I had no idea how fascinating and resonant he would become for me. I discovered that we had much in common. We are both artists who spent time in our early twenties studying art in Europe, who believe that art has the potential to elevate human beings spiritually and socially. We are nikkei-jin (people of Japanese ancestry) who know the feeling of being an outsider in both Japan and the US. He was bi-racial, like my daughters, at a time when that was exceedingly rare. Noguchi's friend Buckminster Fuller called him “the founding member of an omni-crossbred world society.”
This film is not explicitly about Noguchi and his art, but closely relates to his California roots, his time and work in Mexico City, Jerusalem, and Japan, his experience as a bi-racial artist, and his time as a voluntary inmate at the Poston War Relocation Center. I see his life as a collage of fascinating connections and periods which are difficult to grasp until viewed in their entirety. There is a series of Japanese prints by Hokusai titled 36 Views of Mt. Fuji, where the scenes are often focused on what’s happening in the foreground and middle ground, while Mt Fuji is in the distant background -- the most famous example is The Great Wave off Kanazawa. In the case of California Scenario, the film weaves together scenes and characters that appear unrelated but coalesce into a unified whole, all the while connected to Noguchi via the space he created.
California Scenario is influenced by the meandering, simultaneous narratives in Robert Altman’s film Nashville…
...the flashbacks to Nora and Hae Sung’s childhoods in Past Lives…
...the sensitive look at family history in Minari…
…and the past, present, and future timelines of This Is Us.
California Scenario -- the location -- is an abstract, timeless space. Therefore, eras will be differentiated mostly by wardrobe, hair and make up. We will occasionally project video onto the white walls of the plaza to evoke alternate times, places, & memories.
Noguchi’s approach to sculpting stone was to subtract material and find its essence. The film’s composition and movement will strive for simplicity to get to the heart of each scene. We’ll use motivated, elegant handheld camerawork that blends with the motion and emotion of the performances.
We’ve assembled an experienced, talented producing team with decades of experience in both studio and independent filmmaking. Check out their impressive resumes on our Team Page (tab at top of page). Stay tuned for updates as more of our favorite people join the project!
It’s a difficult moment in the film business, and in many of our communities. We believe that by bringing together a cast and crew of friends and filmmakers for this project we can create joy and purpose by doing the thing we all love: telling stories and making things together. By joining us in making California Scenario you’re not only supporting this film, but also supporting our creative community at large.
We plan to shoot the film over 3 weekends in January/February 2025. We feel that this timeline gives us the best opportunity to secure our cast, crew, and equipment while they’re available - before film and TV projects start to pick up again.
Our biggest expense is the $25K location fee to shoot at Noguchi’s 1.6 acre sculpture garden in Costa Mesa, CA. We worked for nearly 6 months to secure the privilege of filming in this one-of-a-kind location. We will seek discounts and donations for production costs including labor and equipment. There are also non-negotiable expenses such as insurance, permits, and media storage. We estimate these costs will total an additional $35K. Should we exceed our goal we have stretch goals like a day filming on location at the Manzanar National Historic Site (250 miles from Los Angeles).
We will submit to top-tier film festivals and plan to have a year of festival screenings & private screenings, allowing us to build word of mouth and audience support before seeking distribution on major platforms.
This budget does not include post-production costs which we intend to raise after the film is shot. We are currently applying for Fiscal Sponsorship so that we can offer tax deductible donations in the future.
The way crowdfunding on Seed & Spark works is that our campaign must hit 80% of our goal to get the “green light” and receive funds. Your financial support at any level is meaningful to our project!
Here are some tips on how to navigate the options:
Incentives
We’ve created special incentives for supporters who give at $25, $50, $150, $250, $500, $1000, and $2500+ levels. We think this is the best value for your support since you get something unique in return!
Click the Incentives tab at the top of the page.
Click anywhere on the Incentive to claim it!
Wishlist
A really cool thing about the Wishlist is the ability to LOAN us an item for the shoot. Our campaign will get the value added towards our goal! For instance, if you loan us your Noguchi Table, our progress increases by $2K!
The other important feature of the Wishlist is that it provides a list of costs so you know how we intend to use our budget. If you click "Make A Pledge" on any Wishlist item you will have the option to Pledge any $ amount you choose.
Pledge
Click the "Make A Pledge" button at the top of the page.
A straightforward pledge of your support in any $ amount.
Please note that Seed & Spark will automatically select a tip for their services. You have the option to select the amount (if any) that you want to tip. Seed & Spark accepts all major credit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay (on Chrome).
No money? No problem! Just give a Click.
Click the "Follow" heart at the top of the page.
Receive entertaining updates on our journey to make this film AND your follow helps us unlock rewards at 250, 500 & 1000 followers!
Click the "Share" icon at the top of the page.
We’re building an audience and we think you’ll find the process of making California Scenario as interesting and exciting as the film itself. If you have friends who would watch a film like California Scenario or who want to see how a micro-budget indie movie gets made share our campaign with a click, good old fashioned word-of-mouth and email.
Click the "Contact" button at the top of the page.
You've got great ideas and we'd love to hear from you!
Follow and Share on our socials:
FB: California Scenario Film Page
We've made it easy for you. Just Copy and Paste:
"Let’s Make Movie Magic! I’m super excited to share that I’ve contributed to the crowdfunding campaign for @california_scenario_film directed by my friend @jtakata! This project is a labor of love, and it’s going to be incredible. Visit www.seedandspark.com/fund/californiascenario to learn more! If you’re passionate about film and storytelling, I invite you to check it out and support this journey. Your help can make a huge difference, and you’ll get some great rewards too!"
James, Dara, Jen, Jhenn, Ashley, Jennie
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Permits
Costs $2,000
Dots for our "i"s and crosses for our "t"s! Maybe even a special visit from a Fire Marshall.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Noguchi Lamp
Costs $500
We would love to use authentic Noguchi lamps to light the scenes and decorate the sets. Can we borrow yours?
Location - Noguchi Sculpture Garden
Costs $25,000
We negotiated for months to get permission to film in this very special location. We are incredibly lucky to have this opportunity!
Professional Camera Package
Costs $5,000
We have top professionals who know how to utilize the right camera, lenses, and equipment to create rich, stunning imagery.
Walkie Talkies & Headsets
Costs $2,500
Walkies keep professional sets running quietly and efficiently. "Copy that!"
Lighting and Grip Package
Costs $5,000
Electricians power and set the lights. Grips shape the light and provide support for cameras and generally get sh*t done.
Insurance
Costs $4,500
The thing that everyone needs and hopes they never have to use. Essential to rent gear and locations.
Location Sound Equipment
Costs $4,000
A film is only as good as its sound! We need to capture the dialogue of this film professionally by renting the right gear.
Costumes
Costs $2,500
Our story takes place in several different time periods. Costumes are an essential part of any film, especially involving flashbacks!
Hair & Make Up
Costs $2,500
Our flashbacks will require period make up and hairstyles. Do you think our actors wake up looking this way?
Expendables
Costs $25
Film sets are held together by tape, velcro, and other sticky substances.
Noguchi Table
Costs $2,000
We would like to use Noguchi's iconic table in one of our scenes. Can we borrow yours?
Cube Truck
Costs $2,000
We will keep a small footprint, but our gear still needs a way to get on set.
Generator
Costs $600
Lights, cameras, and coffee makers need electricity!
4K Video Projector
Costs $475
We want to use video projected onto walls and actors to help create layers of places, time periods, and memories.
SAG/AFTRA Ultra Low Budget Minimum (1 day)
Costs $300
We want to hire professional actors who are members of SAG/AFTRA. We must pay a minimum daily rate + pension & welfare.
Cast & Crew Meals (Weekend)
Costs $500
Home cooked or delivered meals. Just because you can make it through the day on Flamin' Hot Cheetos and Granola Bars doesn't mean it's ok!
Cast & Crew Meals (1 day)
Costs $250
Donate a home cooked or delivered meal. An army marches on its stomach. A film crew cannot subsist for long on Twizzlers and Diet Coke!
External Hard Drive (1 of 4)
Costs $200
We need secure, reliable storage for the pictures and sound.
Craft Services (Weekend)
Costs $100
Don't talk to me until I've had my coffee!
Craft Services (1 day)
Costs $50
Coffee & Donuts. The life blood of any film set.
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
JAMES TAKATA - Director/Co-Writer
James Takata is a film and television director, writer, and cinematographer. James has directed episodes of This Is Us, and The Company You Keep, as well as the feature documentary We the Parents. James is a protégé in the Directors Guild of America's selective 2024 Director Development Mentorship Program. He is a member of the DGA and International Cinematographers Guild Local 600.
DARA RESNIK - Producer/Co-Writer
Dara Resnik is a writer and showrunner whose credits include Aaron Sorkin’s Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip, Pushing Daisies, Mistresses, Castle, Jane the Virgin, Joey Soloway’s I Love Dick, and Marvel’s Daredevil. Dara co-created and co-showran Home Before Dark for Apple TV+, a drama inspired by real-life 13-year-old crime reporter Hilde Lysiak, and she completed co-showrunning The Horror of Dolores Roach for Amazon Studios and Blumhouse Television last year. She is currently developing a limited series about Robert Durst for UCP/Peacock.
JHENNIFER WEBBERLEY - Producer
A Los Angeles native, Jhennifer Webberley is a producer/editor and founding member of Metamorfic Productions. Feature film credits include 7000 Miles, Quality Problems, And Then There Was Eve, Love Danielle, Bread and Butter, Orchard Wedding and Wait Means Never. Webberley also enjoys editing many of her independent projects including Quality Problems, Farewell My King, Only Child and Broken Wings. Recent projects also include the immersive experience for COSM’s Cirque du Soleil’s “O” and immersive short projects for the Beijing Olympics. Webberley holds a MFA (Magna Cum Laude) in Film and Television Production from the USC School of Cinema-Television and a MBA (Magna Cum Laude) from Pepperdine University in Marketing and Strategy
Jen Prince is an independent film producer and editor originally from San Antonio, Texas. Feature producing credits include 7000 Miles, Quality Problems, And Then There Was Eve, and Eve of Understanding. Her work in immersive and virtual reality earned her a Sports Emmy Nomination for Digital Innovation (XXIV OLYMPIC WINTER GAMES First 8k Immersive Livestream). She produced and edited, together with Jhennifer Webberley, an immersive feature-length shared reality experience of Cirque du Soleil’s “O” for the new COSM domes opening around the country. Jen is a graduate of the MFA Film Production Program at USC and earned her BFA in Acting and a BA in Liberal Arts in the Plan II Honors Program at the University of Texas at Austin (Phi Beta Kappa). Post-Production TV Credits include the Emmy Awards, The Contender, and The Amazing Race. She is a faculty member at New York Film Academy in Burbank, CA and serves as a mentor for The University of Texas at Austin.
Ashley Hillis is a seasoned producer with over twenty years of experience in the film industry. A Davis, California native, she holds a BA in Political Science and Philosophy from Wellesley College and an MFA in Producing from USC's Peter Stark Program. Throughout her career, Ashley has collaborated with acclaimed filmmakers like Tony Scott, Rawson Thurber, and Todd Black, honing her craft alongside industry giants. Her breakout project, *Dating My Mother*, featuring Kathryn Erbe and Kathy Najimy, premiered at the Frameline Film Festival and garnered critical acclaim. Ashley is known for her award-winning short films, music videos, and diverse projects ranging from web series to PSAs. She is particularly passionate about stories featuring strong, flawed female characters and explores the complexities of human relationships, especially within dysfunctional families.
Jennie Yamaki is a program management and business operations executive in the entertainment and technology sectors. Most recently, she spent over 6 years at Netflix, where she first served as a physical production executive for the Original Independent Film division before moving into a program management role for the Global Production Strategy & Operations team. Before Netflix, Jennie held physical production executive roles at both start-ups and established companies, managing a diverse slate of digital, film, and television content at companies such as Mattel, Lionsgate, and PopSugar. Early in her career, she was a Line Producer for independent films, most notably Napoleon Dynamite. She also spent 6 years at Mandata Pictures as a physical production executive, overseeing productions such as Harold & Kumar 3.