Dogs of War is a psychological drama that takes places following a global nuclear war in a world that challenges all survivors at every twist and turn because mercy takes no prisoners, but its sister misery loves company. 

We meet Anna, withered and unkempt as she traverses by her lonesome under the morning light.

She catches an impossible glimpse of her late husband in the distance so, of course, she reaches out with a fraction of her remaining strength for him to take and pull her close. However, instead of taking her hand, he turns away from her and, finally, Anna realizes she's completely on her own.  

Immediately thereafter, we flitter back through all the events that led up to her solo trek in the barren landscape. From two very capable minds battling for dominance rather than compromise, to the small betrayals of trust at any threat of danger, we follow Anna as she uncovers the most disappointing truth of life shared by all humanity.

The theme of Dogs of War is the acceptance of negativity. We can't run from ugly thoughts or emotions but we don't have to let them overwhelm us either. Anna and the other survivors all use opposing, thus ineffective, coping mechanisms to hide away from both the cruel world outside their crumbling wall of their safehouse and each other. As a result, everything they do to obtain a semblance of peace falls short. 

The cinematography and production design will serve to highlight the feeling of claustrophobia when your morals are tested and/or your turmoil goes ignored. A feeling reminiscent of believeing no one is willing to lend an ear, leaving you to feel unseen by everything around you, and thus you slip back into the shadows of your own headspace.

Our production will take place across two locations, the first being a beautiful desert out in Santa Clarita that fits our story world perfectly and will serve for all of our exterior shots. The rest of our shoot will take place inside a sound stage located in the heart of Hollywood, California.

This production was a long time coming before COVID-19 and it won't stop us now. We've deliberated to come up with strict safety plans for both filming locations that adhere to all Social Distancing stipulations, keeping everyone happy and healthy. For instance, keeping crews small and taking breaks after long intervals of production to sanitize.

We all strongly believe filmmaking is all about risk taking, yes. But in creativity, not in another's wellbeing.

Anna (played by Kyra Heenan):

Anna is a quiet scholar whose pragmatism is clouded by her naïve heart of gold. Having been thrust into a new world of outward depravity, her soul breaks a little more and more every day. She has turned to literature of any and all kinds to satiate her heavy heart, where she doesn't have to face reality. Her group continues to suffer for this decision.

Loren (played by Yadira Barreto):

Loren is confident and a bit overzealous. She grew up as a military brat, so her ambition to succeed and tenacity to do whatever it is takes to stay safe is a massive contribution to the fragmenting group’s survival. She takes command from no one, especially not Mae.

Mae (played by Quonta Beasley):

Mae is mature and matriarchal. She knows her tact and grace is very necessary to the group’s stability, and thus tries to assert dominance over the group, but she is constantly at odds with Loren.

Kailee (played by Isabella Jaimie):

Kailee is bubbly yet perceptive. She knows how to play her cards right to obtain the best outcome for herself. 

The Husband (played by Jataun Gilbert):

The Husband, otherwise known as Calum, was playful and empathetic. Although all he is now is a memory that comes to comfort Anna in her nightmares. He exudes the warmth and stability she desperately craves.

Paul (played by Michael Dumas):

Paul is eager and kindhearted. He’s a bit of a people-pleaser, but it’s all in good faith. He works hard to provide levity when the mood sinks too low.

We plan to submit this to film festivals by the beginning of 2022. From local to international. From drama to sci-fi. Anything we can sink our teeth into. And to do that, we need your help!

Here are some ways you can help us out:

1. Follow Us On Our Social Media!

Be sure to follow us here on Seed&Spark, but also on Instagram @dogsofwarshortfilm! Please encourage your friends to follow us as well.

2. Spread the Word!

Tell your family, friends, colleagues and everyone in-between about this project. We'd love if you shared the campaign page with them. 

3. Keep On Visiting!

The more you vist our page, the more likely we can end up featured on the website. You can also keep updated with our progress, of course!

I've gone through a lot of introspection over my short but crawling 20 years of life and I've learned to try to understand my emotions as instead of just pushing them down, if not for myself then for the people around me. I can tell you, it's worth it. And, you know, if you ever want to talk personally, find me at:

IG: @aa_velvet17

Twitter: @mcintosh_ak

Thank you for your support.

- AK McIntosh