CrossFaded is a tale following a man in his early 30s as he is lured back into the vibrant and perilous nightlife of Philadelphia. The narrative explores themes of identity, community, and the pull of one's roots, offering an intimate glimpse into the protagonist's journey through a world that is as thrilling as it is toxic. We envision this short film as a deep and personal exploration of life, identity, and the complexities of returning to one's past. The storytelling will be raw and authentic, reflecting the director's own experiences and insights, making it a powerful and resonant piece.

This project presents a unique opportunity to bring together a diverse team of talented individuals, each contributing their unique perspective and voice. By drawing on the rich cultural tapestry of Philadelphia, we aim to bring these local voices to the mainstream, sharing their stories with a wider audience and ensuring authenticity and depth in the narrative.

We are raising $22,000 to bring this vision to life, with a significant portion already secured through generous donations from our dedicated cast and crew. This budget will cover essential expenses such as equipment, locations, production design, salaries, permits, and transportation, ensuring a high-quality production that does justice to this rich story.

Our team boasts extensive experience, having worked on diverse projects across all continents, except Antarctica. This wealth of knowledge and expertise will be instrumental in delivering a compelling and professionally produced series, leveraging our global perspective and experience while staying true to the local roots of the story.

In present-day Philadelphia, Lucky tries to launch his DJ career at his best friend's failing bar. He navigates gentrification, a breakup, rival DJ’s, and his imposter syndrome, all while battling a shady realty group determined to take them down in 'CrossFaded,' where every spin of the turntable could be their last hope.

When I was at a low point, I created CrossFaded. It emerged during a time when I was discontent with myself and the direction of my life. Each page, each minute, vividly reflects my emotions and the events unfolding around me. Although a work of fiction, it draws inspiration from my life in Philadelphia.

I want to share a story that represents us. Philly is more than rabid sports fans and greased polls. This city is more than rowhomes and our musical icons. It is a blue-collar city that suddenly has white-collar ambitions. There are people in this who feel unheard. I want to provide a voice for the voiceless. We are a city of perseverance and spirit. I feel that the representation of our city, and the people in it on a national level is very misconstrued. There’s so much happening in our city that needs attention. 

Whether it’s the alarming opioid problem, gun violence in the city, Investment firms bolstering gentrification, or ignoring the neighbors that they’re imposing on. Our unhoused problem. I want to share a Philadelphia story through a native lens.

This project presents a unique opportunity to bring together a diverse team of talented individuals, each contributing their unique perspective and voice. By drawing on the rich cultural tapestry of Philadelphia, we aim to bring these local voices to the mainstream, sharing their stories with a wider audience and ensuring authenticity and depth in the narrative.

MOOD & FEEL

As a creative, I draw my inspiration from the works of John Singleton, Cheryl Dunye, Spike Lee, Issa Rae, and Donald Glover. The project itself is crafted as a 36-minute "Music-driven cinematic piece." CrossFaded: 2/3 "Atlanta," 1/3 "Insecure," with a hint of "The Bear" for that perfect blend. Below is a music-driven teaser that should give you a slight understanding of the look.

*5 of our 6 lead and supporting actors are Philadelphia creatives.***

After an incident of cover racism, Lucky decides to quit his job and launch his DJ career at his best friend's failing bar. He navigates gentrification, a breakup, rival DJ’s, and his imposter syndrome, all while battling a shady realty group determined to take them down in 'CrossFaded,' where every spin of the turntable could be their last hope. With his close friends Sade, Jordan, Vino and Futuristic by his side, he will rise to new heights and fall to new lows on his journey. “I’d call it an ode to my 20’s from the perspective of a 30-something”

Lucky(Portrayed by William Lewis) After going through a tough breakup and leaving his job, Lucky feels like he's hit rock bottom. Despite being open with his friends, Lucky uses his stylish, and effortlessly cool demeanor to unconsciously project an aura that hides any underlying anxiety.

Sade (Amanda Jackson) Sade is one of Lucky’s trio of best friends, is the ride-or-die. She tends to prioritize her friends' crises over her own, often to take her mind off everything she has going on. As she always runs by Lucky's side, one must wonder what she's running from.

Jordan (Nik Hampshire) Jordan is the owner of Hera’s bar and he's the type of person who puts on a brave face, even when he's struggling. As he faces the possibility of losing his bar, he moves in with Lucky to help him through his breakup, but he's also looking out for himself and his financial situation.

Ava (Alexandra Christodoulaki) Ava's Lucky's ex, she's a party girl in every way imaginable. An immigrant to the US, misses her family and copes in all the wrong ways.

Futuristic (Muhammad Carr) Futuristic rounds out the trio. He’s found success as a touring DJ, but suddenly finds himself home. How long will he be there for?

Vino (Mike Voss), a friend of Jordan's, is new to town and has ambitions of advancing his DJ career. He believes Lucky is the key to his success.

The CrossFaded team has an incredible amount of experience and diversity 

Producer, Writer and Director : G. Abrom Henries

G. Abrom Henries is a storyteller born in Queens, New York to Liberian immigrants. His journey is a testament to the pursuit of passion and creativity. At the age of 9, his family relocated to Philadelphia, where he has called home ever since. Crediting his stint in the US Air Force for his discipline, he delved into the world of screenwriting, learning the craft through online tutorials. In 2019, his creative drive led him to write the short film "CrossFaded," marking the beginning of a journey into directing. The vibrant streets of London became his new backdrop as he pursued formal training at the esteemed London Film Academy, culminating in the award of his MA in Filmmaking in 2022. During his time at LFA, he made significant contributions to over 15 short films, leaving an indelible mark with his work on "The Call." His post-graduation phase witnessed him returning to Philadelphia to contribute to the Health Safety department for the upcoming Apple+ Series, Sinking Spring. Throughout his odyssey, G. Abrom Henries draws inspiration from luminaries such as John Singleton, Cheryl Dunye, Spike Lee, Issa Rae, and Donald Glover, reinforcing his commitment to a career in Film & Television.

Cinematographer & Producer: Manny O.A.

Manny O.A. began his filmmaking journey by delving into photography and creating videos for websites back in 2014. Encouraged by his sister, an award-winning documentary filmmaker, to explore cinematography due to his natural talent for framing shots, he directed his first short film in 2019. Since then, he has served as the Director of Photography and Executive Producer for a feature film and has also worked on several short films and music videos.

Director of Photography: Nana Nabi

Initially aspiring for a career in directing, Nana transitioned to practical filmmaking following her graduation, gaining valuable experience across a range of projects, including music videos and actress showreels.

A graduate of the London Film Academy, Nana's professional journey has been characterized by diverse experiences spanning continents, working in North and Central America, as well as Europe. Immersed in projects of varying scales and budgets, her versatility is evident whether in the role of Director of Photography or Producer.

Composer: Dai Miyazaki

Originally from Okayama, Japan, Dai Miyazaki is a guitarist and composer currently living in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. His passion for music started during adolescence, picking up his first guitar at the age of 13, and in 1994, after graduating high school, moving to Tokyo to further indulge his creative passion. After 9 years of being a self-taught musician--3 of them spent writing and performing original songs for his own Rock band--Dai decided to make a major life change, to focus on his education and pursue a professional career. Traveling across the Pacific Ocean, he began classes at the esteemed Berklee College of Music receiving his Jazz Performance/Guitar diploma in 2001. 

Since completing his education at Berklee, Dai's portfolio includes live festival performances, high rated TV show appearances and studio recording sessions with national artists and international superstars. His musical knowledge and vocabulary spans multiple genres bridging Jazz, Soul, R&B, Hip-Hop, Rock, Reggae, World Music, Gospel and Contemporary Christian.

Mr. Miyazaki's most notable and recent stage performances for television and touring include: - Ms. Lauryn Hill (2010-2011, including multiple Rock The Bells Tour appearances) - KC & JoJo (2011) - RJD2/Icebird (2011-2012) - Ludacris (2013-present) - Tye Tribbett (2010-present) - Bilal (2012-2014)

His most notable and recent studio album sessions include: - Bilal "A Love Surreal" - Vivian Green "The Green Room" - Tye Tribbett "Greater Than" (2014 Grammy Award winner Best Gospel Album)

Production Designer: Juliette Joy

Attracted by unconventional universes, Juliette Joy ANQUETIL, born in Paris, France, likes to develop sensitive stories dealing with committed, sometimes heavy subjects revealing our consciences and souls. After working on various productions since her early days, she started her artistic studies at the Cours Florent (French Acting School) in 2018. Juliette officially began her career in front of the camera, alongside Gaspard ULLIEL and Freya MAVOR, in the role of Gwenn, a young woman who will reborn from the ashes, in the mini-series "Twice Upon A Time" directed by Guillaume NICLOUX for ARTE and broadcasted on NETFLIX in 2019. This experience on set reinforced her desire for cinema and her intention to explore the other side of the stage. In 2019, she moved to London to pursue her film studies and enroll in the Filmmaking Bachelor at the London Film Academy to acquire in 2021 her diploma with honors and the solid knowledge and practical skills necessary for her future career as a director.

After exploring different positions on student films and external productions like music videos, reality TV and features, she now focuses on production design as well as writing and directing

First Assistant Director: Victor Shikatov

Victor Shikatov is a talented writer and director originally from Russia who now calls the UK home. He discovered his passion for Assistant Directing after completing his Filmmaking Level 7 at the London Film Academy. He began his career on various music video sets and eventually advanced to the position of 1st AD, notably collaborating with music video director Maxim Kelly.

Consulting Producer: LaJonel Brown

LaJonel Brown is a Los Angeles-based producer and director, and the Founder/CEO of Miss Brown Presents, Inc. Her career is guided by the empowering motto: "You can do whatever you want—never assume barriers." LaJonel's diverse and impressive portfolio includes producing the highly anticipated comedy digital series Outta Pocket and the 2019 Pan African Film Festival short film selection Colors of Sankofa. She has also contributed to the success of Paramount Network's hit series Yellowstone as part of the physical production team.

The West Chester native and Temple alum approaches each project, big or small, with humility and preparedness, which has earned her a reputation for excellence in the industry. Most recently, she wrapped a production with Spring Hill Entertainment and is now working on a limited series produced by Netflix and HartBeat Production. Her commitment to storytelling and passion for the craft continue to drive her success and inspire those around her.

Consulting Producer: Patrick Squares White

Patrick, a native of the Philadelphia area, is an alumnus of Holy Ghost Preparatory School for Boys in Bensalem. He completed his undergraduate studies at LaSalle University in Philadelphia and later pursued a Master's degree in theater at Villanova University, graduating in 1998. Since 2005, Patrick has been a member of IATSE Local 52. His professional portfolio includes notable contributions to projects such as Hustle, Mare of Easttown, 21 Bridges, and the upcoming film, Breathe, wherein he served as the special effects coordinator.

Producer & Actor: Amanda Jackson

After graduating from Temple University with a BA in Film, Amanda used her skills to become involved in the Philadelphia art and nightlife scene. She worked on everything from small art shows to large live events. This eventually led to a career in marketing and producing. When Amanda isn’t working behind the camera, she enjoys being in front of it, as she will be co-starring in CrossFaded as Sade.

Producer : Lachlan Macnab

Lachlan’s interest in film production grew from a young age in Singapore, where he was exposed to, and volunteered at, visual media productions, red carpets, press conferences, live events, and media photo calls to bring some of the biggest films and film universes to the Asian Market. Film school allowed him to explore each integral piece of the filming process. It also informed him of his place within the ”family” that creates each final piece. 

Lachlan’s ambition is to create content that is relevant to today’s ever-changing fast-consumer audience but also celebrates the attributes of the classics of the past. Currently working on multiple projects as a producer, Director and Cinematographer, he uses his organizational planning skills and his propensity for working with groups to achieve a shared vision successfully. Lachlan looks forward to every project he works on without regard to the location or subject. Lachlan hopes to bridge the East-West gap in film creation for future generations.