Clown Face
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Comedy, Drama
In a world where performing at a child’s birthday party is the highest honor a clown can achieve, one clown fights to stand out in a crowd of identical faces. This is a story of artistic identity, survival, and redefining success in a world where laughs are scarce and competition is fierce.
Clown Face
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Comedy, Drama
1 Campaigns | California, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $7,631 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
48 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
In a world where performing at a child’s birthday party is the highest honor a clown can achieve, one clown fights to stand out in a crowd of identical faces. This is a story of artistic identity, survival, and redefining success in a world where laughs are scarce and competition is fierce.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
A clown auditions for a coveted birthday party gig, only to be rejected when he realizes every clown in the waiting room looks just like him. Spiraling into despair, he obsesses over a rival clown living the life he craves, throwing himself into increasingly desperate party gigs. At his lowest, he encounters a homeless clown who shares life-changing wisdom. As Clown contemplates this message, fate finally hands him the job. But success has a price—his painted smile begins to fade, revealing something far more real beneath.
Through this story, we’re exploring the exploitative dynamic between institutions and artists. What is a performer, if not a clown—shaped to entertain, to absorb ridicule and praise, all while hiding behind a mask? We aim to peel back that mask, to examine the torrent beneath—the confusion, the desperation, the need to be seen. In doing so, we hope to uncover what any of it is for.
A few years ago, I came across a strange, beautiful post on Instagram: a registry of clown makeup designs painted on eggs. It turns out, this is real—the Clowns International Egg Registry catalogs every clown’s unique makeup, immortalized in fragile shells. That odd bit of whimsy planted a seed in me. Over time, it grew into something deeper: a story about identity, artistry, and the masks we wear.
As an actor, I’ve spent years navigating the uncertainty of a creative career—wondering about longevity, questioning what success even means. Clown Face became a mirror for those feelings. Clown is a stand-in for myself, and for countless artists like me. His encounter with the Homeless Clown echoes conversations I’ve had with seasoned professionals who’ve helped me stay the course. And that aching feeling—of watching someone else get the role you know you could thrive in—is one every actor knows too well.
But Clown Face isn’t about bitterness. Instead of turning a cynical eye on the industry, the film asks a deeper question: What does success look like when you're forced to constantly prove your worth? And can there be meaning even in rejection?
Since that day I discovered the clown registry, I haven’t written or directed a personal project. In that time, I’ve been lucky to collaborate with passionate storytellers as an actor and editor. But lately, I’ve felt a strong pull back to creating something of my own—something deeply felt and fully mine. At the heart of it, what drives me is connection: with collaborators, with audiences, and with the strange, honest parts of ourselves that stories like Clown Face bring to light.
This film is my way of contributing to that conversation—and I’d be honored to have your support in making it a reality.
-Aidan Collett, writer & director
stills from Aidan's recent filmography, To Sea, The Attic, and In My Name
Clown Face is set in a surreal circus world where whimsy is the norm and eccentricity is woven into the fabric of everyday life. From the street signs to the oversized shoes clowns wear, every detail reflects a grounded flamboyance. Yet, since the story unfolds through Clown’s perspective, an undercurrent of melancholy tints this whimsical reality.
Rather than vibrant primaries, the visual palette leans into muted tones. Soft, warm lighting is edged by creeping shadows and stark contrast, creating a mood that feels both timeless and hauntingly vintage.
The film’s tone draws inspiration from the awkward surrealism of Yorgos Lanthimos, seen in Kinds of Kindness and Poor Things, and the visceral unease in Coralie Fargeat’s The Substance. These influences shape a subjective point of view—intimate, off-kilter, and emotionally charged. The classist oppression endured by the clowns, particularly at the hands of children, is ever-present, infusing each frame with thematic weight and purpose.
To bring this unique world to life, the bulk of our budget will go toward our exceptional Wardrobe, Makeup, and Production Design teams. Our goal is to create an environment that feels fully lived-in—where every corner is infused with character. Homes will be dressed in circus memorabilia, parties adorned with balloons and streamers. Clowns will resemble wilted flowers in '70s-inspired attire, while children will appear as modern businessmen in sharp suits. The makeup will be unlike any clown in the egg registry—distinct and unforgettable.
Beyond aesthetics, funding is needed to properly pay and feed our cast and crew, and to cover post-production costs, including an original score and a strong push on the film festival circuit. The shoot will span three days, allowing us to extract every ounce of meaning from each moment—while enjoying the process along the way.
If we surpass our goal, we’ve got some surreal upgrades planned—stay tuned for stretch goals!
anks so much for diving into the world of Clown Face! If you’ve made it this far, it means something about this surreal and honest story resonated with you — and that alone is a huge show of support.
If our clowning around gave you a grin, here’s how you can help us keep the fun going:
Spread the Word
Share our campaign with friends, family, or anyone who loves a good story:
https://seedandspark.com/fund/clown-face
Follow the Journey
Keep up with casting news, behind-the-scenes updates, and more on Instagram and TikTok:
@clownfacefilm
Director: @aidanccollett
Get in Touch
Have questions, ideas, or want to collaborate? Reach out to our email:
Listen to the Music
Set the mood and jump into the world of Clown Face with our curated Spotify playlist:
Thanks for being part of the Clown Face journey. We can’t wait to bring the show to your screen!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Catering & Crafty
Costs $1,350
Help us stay fueled and energized while crafting the story!
Wardrobe
Costs $1,000
Bellbottoms, clown shoes, and rubber noses... oh my!
Production Design
Costs $1,600
This world must look inhabited by clowns!
Distribution
Costs $800
Let's share the film to the world with a hearty film festival run!
Original Score
Costs $300
A film is only as powerful as its score... but even more powerful when its director is playing the theremin...
Hair & Makeup
Costs $650
Those painted smiles ain't gonna paint themselves!
Post-Production
Costs $600
This will cover hard drives, footage transfers, and overall putting the thing together!
Cast & Crew Wages
Costs $1,200
Our team deserves to be compensated for their talents!
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Behind the painted faces and heartfelt absurdity of Clown Face is a team of artists who care deeply—about storytelling, about craft, and about making something weird and beautiful together.
From production design to performance, every person here brings a little bit of soul, a little bit of chaos, and a lot of love to the process. These are the folks turning the vision into reality—one balloon, camera, or existential clown crisis at a time.
Aidan Collett - Writer & Director
Originally from the East Coast, Aidan discovered his love for filmmaking while running through the woods of New Jersey with a camera in hand and friends in tow—turning outlandish visions into reality. That early foundation of boundless creativity and joyful collaboration led him to study Film and Theater at Loyola Marymount University, where he created identity-explorative films such as In My Name, The Attic, and his senior thesis, To Sea.
Since earning his degree, Aidan has built a professional career as an actor. His theater credits include Much Ado About Nothing (Playground Renaissance), The Hidden One (Torrance Theater Company), and Downtown Rep’s Witch!, fangs!, and Masq!. On screen, he’s appeared in Out of Babel (House of Grace Films), Severed Ties (LMU SFTV), Are We Different? (NYFA), and the upcoming Mutiny (Citadel Productions).
With Clown Face, Aidan brings his experience as a performer into the director’s chair, aiming to recapture the spirit of youthful imagination and communal creativity that first sparked his passion for storytelling.
Issac Jay - "Clown"
ISAAC W JAY is excited to be working on Clown Face with this wonderful team! His other latest film/TV credits include Lessons in Chemistry (Apple TV+), The Last Thing He Told Me (Apple TV+), Fishtank (Winner SXSW Sydney), Glue Trap (Hellzapoppin Pictures), American Crime Story: Impeachment (FX), and Headcount (Defiant Studios). Recent theatre credits include These Shining Lives (Actor’s Co-op), Downtown Reps’ Mask!, Fangs!, and Witch!, Twelfth Night (Actor’s Co-op), Back Porch (Bluesteam Productions), Copenhagen (INTERACT), Death of a Salesman (INTERACT), and The Bacchae (World Premiere London). Isaac is a member of SAG-AFTRA.
Eric Charles Jorgenson - "Augusté"
Eric Charles Jorgenson is grateful to be working with Aidan and Antonio again, after their first collaboration on To Sea. Eric has shared with his collaborators the same existential struggle of finding one’s place in the world, beyond that of artistry, relationships, or occupation. Fortunately, he can read, and found Henry Miller. For now, the great question of meaning has been solved…..
“And then and there it came to him – how simple it was! – that to be nobody or anybody or
everybody did not prevent him from being himself. If he were really a clown, then he should be
one through and through, from the time he got up in the morning until he closed his eyes. He
should be a clown in season and out, for hire or for the sheer sake of being. So unalterably
convince was he of the wisdom of this that he hungered to begin at once – without makeup,
without costume, without even the accomplishment of that squeaky old violin. He would be so
absolutely himself that only the truth, which now burned in him like a fire, would be
recognizable.” – Henry Miller, The Smile at the Foot of the Ladder.
Antonio Cavallo - Producer
Antonio Cavallo is a Los Angeles-based producer and filmmaker with a passion for heartfelt storytelling wrapped in surreal, often absurdist worlds. A graduate of Loyola Marymount University’s Film Production program, Antonio brings both creative insight and hands-on production experience to Clown Face. He was drawn to the project for its layered commentary on artistic identity, its mix of humor and emotion, and its embrace of the bizarre.
His most recent short film, Metamorphosis—a horror comedy that explores Alzheimer’s through a darkly imaginative lens—is currently in post-production. The screenplay has already received recognition at several screenwriting competitions. Antonio’s previous work includes Baby Boy, a metaphorical coming-of-age story that blends surreal imagery with personal reflection.
As a producer, Antonio is known for his energetic presence, unwavering support of the team, and deep commitment to every story he helps bring to life.
Josiah Sickler - Director of Photography
Josiah David is a Los Angeles-based Director of Photography, photographer, and all-around visual storyteller with a deep love for cinema that blurs the line between surreal and soulful. With over a decade of photography experience and a growing reel of narrative work, music videos, and commercials, Josiah brings a dynamic eye and playful heart to every set. His background in acting, improv, and sound mixing gives him a unique understanding of performance and rhythm, while his passion for light, shadow, and visual metaphor drives his cinematography. Josiah’s work often explores identity, introspection, and emotional contrast—with strong influences from A24 films, magical realism, and psychological storytelling. At his core, Josiah believes in collaboration, experimentation, and keeping the creative process fun, meaningful, and full of heart.
Lana Dvorak - Production Design
Lana Dvorak is a production designer based in LA focused on things that are strange, queer, and a little off-putting. She production designed her first feature film in the fall of 2024, Radon’s Daughters (dir: Siena Bergt). Upcoming: Caroline produced by Walk Like a Duck Entertainment (dir: Morningstar Angeline). Favorite PD credits include: The Walters: Good Company (dir. V. Haddad), Hot Joy: Quality Control (dir. Zach Xanders and Lana Dvorak), Quinnie: Flounder (dir. V. Haddad), Wait To Tell Mother (dir. Emma Steiger).
…and a whole circus of collaborators behind the curtain. We couldn’t do it without them.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
A clown auditions for a coveted birthday party gig, only to be rejected when he realizes every clown in the waiting room looks just like him. Spiraling into despair, he obsesses over a rival clown living the life he craves, throwing himself into increasingly desperate party gigs. At his lowest, he encounters a homeless clown who shares life-changing wisdom. As Clown contemplates this message, fate finally hands him the job. But success has a price—his painted smile begins to fade, revealing something far more real beneath.
Through this story, we’re exploring the exploitative dynamic between institutions and artists. What is a performer, if not a clown—shaped to entertain, to absorb ridicule and praise, all while hiding behind a mask? We aim to peel back that mask, to examine the torrent beneath—the confusion, the desperation, the need to be seen. In doing so, we hope to uncover what any of it is for.
A few years ago, I came across a strange, beautiful post on Instagram: a registry of clown makeup designs painted on eggs. It turns out, this is real—the Clowns International Egg Registry catalogs every clown’s unique makeup, immortalized in fragile shells. That odd bit of whimsy planted a seed in me. Over time, it grew into something deeper: a story about identity, artistry, and the masks we wear.
As an actor, I’ve spent years navigating the uncertainty of a creative career—wondering about longevity, questioning what success even means. Clown Face became a mirror for those feelings. Clown is a stand-in for myself, and for countless artists like me. His encounter with the Homeless Clown echoes conversations I’ve had with seasoned professionals who’ve helped me stay the course. And that aching feeling—of watching someone else get the role you know you could thrive in—is one every actor knows too well.
But Clown Face isn’t about bitterness. Instead of turning a cynical eye on the industry, the film asks a deeper question: What does success look like when you're forced to constantly prove your worth? And can there be meaning even in rejection?
Since that day I discovered the clown registry, I haven’t written or directed a personal project. In that time, I’ve been lucky to collaborate with passionate storytellers as an actor and editor. But lately, I’ve felt a strong pull back to creating something of my own—something deeply felt and fully mine. At the heart of it, what drives me is connection: with collaborators, with audiences, and with the strange, honest parts of ourselves that stories like Clown Face bring to light.
This film is my way of contributing to that conversation—and I’d be honored to have your support in making it a reality.
-Aidan Collett, writer & director
stills from Aidan's recent filmography, To Sea, The Attic, and In My Name
Clown Face is set in a surreal circus world where whimsy is the norm and eccentricity is woven into the fabric of everyday life. From the street signs to the oversized shoes clowns wear, every detail reflects a grounded flamboyance. Yet, since the story unfolds through Clown’s perspective, an undercurrent of melancholy tints this whimsical reality.
Rather than vibrant primaries, the visual palette leans into muted tones. Soft, warm lighting is edged by creeping shadows and stark contrast, creating a mood that feels both timeless and hauntingly vintage.
The film’s tone draws inspiration from the awkward surrealism of Yorgos Lanthimos, seen in Kinds of Kindness and Poor Things, and the visceral unease in Coralie Fargeat’s The Substance. These influences shape a subjective point of view—intimate, off-kilter, and emotionally charged. The classist oppression endured by the clowns, particularly at the hands of children, is ever-present, infusing each frame with thematic weight and purpose.
To bring this unique world to life, the bulk of our budget will go toward our exceptional Wardrobe, Makeup, and Production Design teams. Our goal is to create an environment that feels fully lived-in—where every corner is infused with character. Homes will be dressed in circus memorabilia, parties adorned with balloons and streamers. Clowns will resemble wilted flowers in '70s-inspired attire, while children will appear as modern businessmen in sharp suits. The makeup will be unlike any clown in the egg registry—distinct and unforgettable.
Beyond aesthetics, funding is needed to properly pay and feed our cast and crew, and to cover post-production costs, including an original score and a strong push on the film festival circuit. The shoot will span three days, allowing us to extract every ounce of meaning from each moment—while enjoying the process along the way.
If we surpass our goal, we’ve got some surreal upgrades planned—stay tuned for stretch goals!
anks so much for diving into the world of Clown Face! If you’ve made it this far, it means something about this surreal and honest story resonated with you — and that alone is a huge show of support.
If our clowning around gave you a grin, here’s how you can help us keep the fun going:
Spread the Word
Share our campaign with friends, family, or anyone who loves a good story:
https://seedandspark.com/fund/clown-face
Follow the Journey
Keep up with casting news, behind-the-scenes updates, and more on Instagram and TikTok:
@clownfacefilm
Director: @aidanccollett
Get in Touch
Have questions, ideas, or want to collaborate? Reach out to our email:
Listen to the Music
Set the mood and jump into the world of Clown Face with our curated Spotify playlist:
Thanks for being part of the Clown Face journey. We can’t wait to bring the show to your screen!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Catering & Crafty
Costs $1,350
Help us stay fueled and energized while crafting the story!
Wardrobe
Costs $1,000
Bellbottoms, clown shoes, and rubber noses... oh my!
Production Design
Costs $1,600
This world must look inhabited by clowns!
Distribution
Costs $800
Let's share the film to the world with a hearty film festival run!
Original Score
Costs $300
A film is only as powerful as its score... but even more powerful when its director is playing the theremin...
Hair & Makeup
Costs $650
Those painted smiles ain't gonna paint themselves!
Post-Production
Costs $600
This will cover hard drives, footage transfers, and overall putting the thing together!
Cast & Crew Wages
Costs $1,200
Our team deserves to be compensated for their talents!
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Behind the painted faces and heartfelt absurdity of Clown Face is a team of artists who care deeply—about storytelling, about craft, and about making something weird and beautiful together.
From production design to performance, every person here brings a little bit of soul, a little bit of chaos, and a lot of love to the process. These are the folks turning the vision into reality—one balloon, camera, or existential clown crisis at a time.
Aidan Collett - Writer & Director
Originally from the East Coast, Aidan discovered his love for filmmaking while running through the woods of New Jersey with a camera in hand and friends in tow—turning outlandish visions into reality. That early foundation of boundless creativity and joyful collaboration led him to study Film and Theater at Loyola Marymount University, where he created identity-explorative films such as In My Name, The Attic, and his senior thesis, To Sea.
Since earning his degree, Aidan has built a professional career as an actor. His theater credits include Much Ado About Nothing (Playground Renaissance), The Hidden One (Torrance Theater Company), and Downtown Rep’s Witch!, fangs!, and Masq!. On screen, he’s appeared in Out of Babel (House of Grace Films), Severed Ties (LMU SFTV), Are We Different? (NYFA), and the upcoming Mutiny (Citadel Productions).
With Clown Face, Aidan brings his experience as a performer into the director’s chair, aiming to recapture the spirit of youthful imagination and communal creativity that first sparked his passion for storytelling.
Issac Jay - "Clown"
ISAAC W JAY is excited to be working on Clown Face with this wonderful team! His other latest film/TV credits include Lessons in Chemistry (Apple TV+), The Last Thing He Told Me (Apple TV+), Fishtank (Winner SXSW Sydney), Glue Trap (Hellzapoppin Pictures), American Crime Story: Impeachment (FX), and Headcount (Defiant Studios). Recent theatre credits include These Shining Lives (Actor’s Co-op), Downtown Reps’ Mask!, Fangs!, and Witch!, Twelfth Night (Actor’s Co-op), Back Porch (Bluesteam Productions), Copenhagen (INTERACT), Death of a Salesman (INTERACT), and The Bacchae (World Premiere London). Isaac is a member of SAG-AFTRA.
Eric Charles Jorgenson - "Augusté"
Eric Charles Jorgenson is grateful to be working with Aidan and Antonio again, after their first collaboration on To Sea. Eric has shared with his collaborators the same existential struggle of finding one’s place in the world, beyond that of artistry, relationships, or occupation. Fortunately, he can read, and found Henry Miller. For now, the great question of meaning has been solved…..
“And then and there it came to him – how simple it was! – that to be nobody or anybody or
everybody did not prevent him from being himself. If he were really a clown, then he should be
one through and through, from the time he got up in the morning until he closed his eyes. He
should be a clown in season and out, for hire or for the sheer sake of being. So unalterably
convince was he of the wisdom of this that he hungered to begin at once – without makeup,
without costume, without even the accomplishment of that squeaky old violin. He would be so
absolutely himself that only the truth, which now burned in him like a fire, would be
recognizable.” – Henry Miller, The Smile at the Foot of the Ladder.
Antonio Cavallo - Producer
Antonio Cavallo is a Los Angeles-based producer and filmmaker with a passion for heartfelt storytelling wrapped in surreal, often absurdist worlds. A graduate of Loyola Marymount University’s Film Production program, Antonio brings both creative insight and hands-on production experience to Clown Face. He was drawn to the project for its layered commentary on artistic identity, its mix of humor and emotion, and its embrace of the bizarre.
His most recent short film, Metamorphosis—a horror comedy that explores Alzheimer’s through a darkly imaginative lens—is currently in post-production. The screenplay has already received recognition at several screenwriting competitions. Antonio’s previous work includes Baby Boy, a metaphorical coming-of-age story that blends surreal imagery with personal reflection.
As a producer, Antonio is known for his energetic presence, unwavering support of the team, and deep commitment to every story he helps bring to life.
Josiah Sickler - Director of Photography
Josiah David is a Los Angeles-based Director of Photography, photographer, and all-around visual storyteller with a deep love for cinema that blurs the line between surreal and soulful. With over a decade of photography experience and a growing reel of narrative work, music videos, and commercials, Josiah brings a dynamic eye and playful heart to every set. His background in acting, improv, and sound mixing gives him a unique understanding of performance and rhythm, while his passion for light, shadow, and visual metaphor drives his cinematography. Josiah’s work often explores identity, introspection, and emotional contrast—with strong influences from A24 films, magical realism, and psychological storytelling. At his core, Josiah believes in collaboration, experimentation, and keeping the creative process fun, meaningful, and full of heart.
Lana Dvorak - Production Design
Lana Dvorak is a production designer based in LA focused on things that are strange, queer, and a little off-putting. She production designed her first feature film in the fall of 2024, Radon’s Daughters (dir: Siena Bergt). Upcoming: Caroline produced by Walk Like a Duck Entertainment (dir: Morningstar Angeline). Favorite PD credits include: The Walters: Good Company (dir. V. Haddad), Hot Joy: Quality Control (dir. Zach Xanders and Lana Dvorak), Quinnie: Flounder (dir. V. Haddad), Wait To Tell Mother (dir. Emma Steiger).
…and a whole circus of collaborators behind the curtain. We couldn’t do it without them.