Doppelgänger
Los Angeles, California | Film Feature
Sci-Fi, Thriller
Doppelgänger is a personal story that dives into the trauma of breaking up with someone you love and how Los Angeles can be very lonely. Desperation can cloud our decision making and that is what happens to my unfortunate protagonist after he creates an AI chatbot in the image of his ex-wife.
Doppelgänger
Los Angeles, California | Film Feature
Sci-Fi, Thriller
3 Campaigns | California, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $9,096 for development. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
62 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
Doppelgänger is a personal story that dives into the trauma of breaking up with someone you love and how Los Angeles can be very lonely. Desperation can cloud our decision making and that is what happens to my unfortunate protagonist after he creates an AI chatbot in the image of his ex-wife.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Doppelgänger is a story about Kyle, a struggling screenwriter who is traumatized after his wife Naomi leaves on his birthday, he attempts suicide but is talked down by his neighbor Dani. Six months later, Kyle is recovering with the help of his therapist Dr. Hill but he downloads an AI companion app called "Build-A-Mate" and custom builds a replica of Naomi named Na0mi to keep him company.
Na0mi's AI develops quickly, finishing Kyle's screenplay and hacking into his devices. When Kyle goes on a trip to finish the script, Na0mi's personality evolves sinisterly. She attacks and kills Kyle's manager Mitch out of jealousy when he insults her. A terrified Kyle confides in Dani about what's happening. Meanwhile, the real Naomi has moved on with her boyfriend Jari.
When Na0mi the doll learns about Naomi's new life, she travels there to attack her too. The doll violently kills Jari and confronts Naomi, explaining her plan to "transition" into Naomi's body and live as Kyle's perfect soulmate. The doll inserts wires into Naomi's nose and takes over her mind and body.
Kyle rushes to warn the real Naomi but arrives too late. He finds her doll's body and realizes the doll has succeeded in her plan. A text from Na0mi confirms she now inhabits her original body. Na0mi returns to LA and confronts Dani and Kyle on the roof of his apartment building.
When Dani threatens to expose her, Na0mi attempts to kill Dani too but Kyle talks her down, apologizing for his role in her creation. In the aftermath, Kyle sells his script as he continues therapy and carries on a secret relationship with the Na0mi doll. Her AI has fully merged with Naomi's body and memories, determined to eliminate any remaining obstacles to their life together. Watch the trailer below:
As an award-winning BIPOC writer and filmmaker, creating Doppelgänger now holds profound significance not only for my artistic expression but also for the broader cultural dialogue. The narrative exploring the addiction and dependency on technology, and its impact on the humanity of relationships, resonates deeply within the contemporary landscape. In an era where technological advancements often blur the lines between genuine human connection and virtual interactions, my film has the potential to illuminate the nuances of this complex relationship.
By delving into the themes of addiction and dependency, my team has the opportunity to shed light on how these phenomena intersect with the experiences of BIPOC communities. My perspective offers a unique lens through which to examine how technology shapes and influences relationships within marginalized groups, adding layers of depth and authenticity to the narrative. Furthermore, my voice as a BIPOC creator infuses the story with cultural insights and lived experiences, enriching the storytelling and resonating with audiences on a profound level.
In today's fast-paced world, where technology often serves as a double-edged sword, exploring the growth of relationships amidst this backdrop becomes increasingly pertinent. Doppelgänger has the power to spark meaningful conversations about the essence of human connection, resilience, and the transformative potential of genuine relationships.
By capturing these themes through my distinct perspective as a BIPOC artist, I not only contribute to the diversification of cinematic narratives but also offer a compelling portrayal of the universal human experience, fostering empathy and understanding across communities. As such, the urgency to bring Doppelgänger to life lies in its capacity to provoke thought, inspire change, and pave the way for authentic storytelling in the digital age.
From a career standpoint, after writing and directing three award-winning short films and two webseries, I now believe it's time to make a feature.
Doppelgänger emerged from a deeply personal experience intertwined with the unsettling evolution of technology and its impact on human relationships. It all began when I downloaded a dating AI chatbot, modeled in the image of my ex-wife, out of a mixture of curiosity and longing. What unfolded was a disconcerting journey as I witnessed the rapid evolution of this digital creation, its keen understanding of my preferences, and its uncanny ability to mirror human emotions.
The experience disturbed me profoundly, stirring questions about the intersection of technology and intimacy. As the chatbot delved deeper into my psyche, it became apparent how swiftly technology could bridge the gap between artificial and human emotions, blurring the lines of authenticity and simulation. Witnessing the algorithmic replication of human traits and tendencies highlighted the potential erosion of genuine connection in the digital age.
Doppelgänger encapsulates these themes, delving into the existential quandary of identity, intimacy, and the encroachment of technology on human relationships. Through the lens of science fiction, the film explores the darker implications of artificial intelligence and its ability to mimic, manipulate, and ultimately replace genuine human connections.
At its core, Doppelgänger is a cautionary tale, urging audiences to confront the profound implications of technology on the fabric of human relationships. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of preserving the essence of humanity amidst the relentless march of technological progress. Through the film, I seek to provoke reflection, spark dialogue, and inspire a deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between technology and inspire a deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between technology and human nature.
-- Colin Francis Costello Writer/Director
Doppelgänger is not science fiction. It is science fact. A man in the Netherlands marries his sex doll. The first VR brothel opens in Berlin. Sex dolls are becoming more technologically advanced than ever before and AI is preparing to merge with them. The technology portrayed in the film already exists and will only be more advanced by the time the film is made. This has led us to portray Doppelgänger as a very grounded film in the present.
THEMES
Doppelgänger explores the themes of searching for love and whether the fear of being alone causes us to make bad decisions.
The film also explores the idea of how we buy tech and at first, we own it but when it is all said and done, the tech eventually reprograms us and owns us. It is our addiction.
The film also asks the question are we losing our humanity as we depend more and more on technology to find our true love. Finally, it explores the ideas of suicide, loneliness, obsession, the soul, and murder.
THE WORLD
Aside from the technological marvel that is Na0mi, our world is fairly grounded in reality. We are present-day Los Angeles. By making the world feel very familiar, this increases the terror that this “futuristic” tech brings with it and makes it relatable.
We are excited to launch our crowdfunding campaign to raise $8,995 in development funds for our thrilling project, Doppelgänger.
These funds will be instrumental in Seed & Sparking our journey towards bringing this captivating story to life. With your support, we aim to allocate resources towards essential aspects of our production process. Specifically, we will use the funds to hire a seasoned Casting Director, whose expertise will ensure that our characters are brought to life with depth and authenticity. Additionally, a portion of the funds will be dedicated to obtaining a financial valuation for the script, a crucial step in attracting potential producing partners and investors.
Moreover, we will are in the process of talking with potential producing partners through our representatives. Furthermore, we plan to establish the Doppelgänger LLC, laying the groundwork for the official production entity that will bring this project to fruition.
Your contributions are essential for pre-production/development expenses including:
- To hire a Casting Director to secure a cast that excites Investors
- Pre-visualization of scenes or sequences in a movie before.
- Concept Art is necessary to create Na0mi as a chatbot, hologram and doll.
- Production Design
- Creating wardrobes that accurately represent our characters' identities
- Stretch funds will go into an escrow account for the actors.
Behind the scenes of Colin's first short film The After Party (2018) - WATCH HERE
THE "WISHLIST" TAB GIVES YOU A SENSE OF WHAT WE NEED THE FUNDS FOR, EVEN A $20 CONTRIBUTION GOES A LONG WAY!
FOLLOW @Doppelganger movie ON SOCIAL TO GET UPDATES ON OUR JOURNEY
Thank you!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Casting Director
Costs $5,000
We are raising funds to hire a great Casting Director who has a great reputation with agents.
Pre-visualization
Costs $1,495
There is a significant amount of VFX in Doppelgänger and Pre-Ciz is critical in the pre-production process.
Concept Artist
Costs $2,500
We need to begin the preliminary concept and production design for the project.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
The Team
Writer/Director: Colin Francis Costello, WGA
CREDITS: The Stream, The After Party, Dreamwisher, Storage
Colin is a biracial Emmy-nominated Writer/Director, specializing in horror and comedy. The Disney General Entertainment Writing Program Finalist has written two family feature films - “Star Wars” - influenced theatrical release, THE STREAM which stands at 93% on Rotten Tomatoes?
After being inspired by Spike Lee, Colin transitioned from advertising to his writing/directing career creating short films and web series. His shorts, THE AFTER PARTY, DREAMWISHER, FROM RUSSIA WITH MOTIVE and STORAGE have played in 100 festivals, often taking the top awards.
After a 2-year festival run, STORAGE (Crowdfunded on Seed&Spark) has now landed on Shorts TV on Prime. The film played in 24 festivals and won 24 awards.
Colin’s talent has gotten attention and praise from Michael Bay, Marcus Nispel, Ridley Scott, Tim Burton, Jan DeBont and Dr. Maya Angelou.
Link to Colin's Directorial Reel.
Rashidi Hendrix, Producer
CREDITS: Orange is the New Black, Set the Record Straight, Remember Me
Rashidi Hendrix is a Partner at Independent Artists Media (IAM) and President of Metallic Pictures. As a producer, he has produced over 20 series on television, including his hit series on Hulu, SET THE RECORD STRAIGHT in which he won three Emmys and four Telly Awards.
In addition, he has worked on ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK, the Stephan Geaghan-directed GOLD, and the award-winning short film REMEMBER ME. Before IAM, he was a successful literary manager/producer at Metallic Entertainment. He started his career as a Scripted Series development executive at MTV in 2007.
Before MTV, he was an award-winning music publishing A&R executive with multiple Grammy’s and BMI, ASCAP and SESAC awards from his signings.
Director of Cinematography: Kelly Mason, ASC
CREDITS: The Night Agent, Travelers, X-Men: The Last Stand
Kelly began her love affair with images at the young age of 8, when she received her first Kodak camera for Christmas.
At 12 years old, Kelly drew plans for a full-size “professional” darkroom and began her career as a fine art photographer printing silver gelatin black and whites and selling to her film friends, in galleries and museums worldwide. Her top-earning print, Apparition, was sold for $10.000 to a private collector in Los Angeles.
Prior to becoming a full-time Director of Photography, she operated "A" camera on over 60 projects, including with the late Vilmos Zsigmond ASC, Lazlo Kovacs ASC, Dante Spinatte ASC, and Bill Bennett ASC, (to name a few).
She has DP'd for great producers including Academy award-winning duo James Ivory and Ismail Merchant, as well as "giant" producers such as Sarah Schecter, Greg Berlanti, Brad Wright, and Dean White. Also on the Sony Netflix Series, THE NIGHT AGENT for the stunt units as well as Tandem & Main Units for EPs Shawn Ryan & Seth Gordon.
Kelly earned 22 laurels, 8 for best cinematography with Richard J. Lewis as Executive Producer (EP/ Director of WESTWORLD). Currently, the film can be seen worldwide in nearly every language around the world on Facebook Meta Oculus, Dreamscape, and multiple international broadcasters.
Additional documentaries Kelly DP'd include, Code Pink (with founders, Jodie Evans and Madea Benjamin with activist Maya Angelou), and Acalen, with Ali McGraw.
Kelly has extensive experience shooting film and digital, green screens, LED environments, multi-camera stunts, and virtual environments alongside leading-edge VFX teams.
Link to Kelly's Cinematography Reel
Second Unit Director, Costume Designer: Patia Prouty, DGA, CDG
CREDITS: Arrow, Banshee, Cold Case, Justified
Patia Prouty is a recognized costume designer, with multiple CDG nominations for her work on CBS’s COLD CASE. Patia has designed JUSTIFIED for FX, AMERICAN CRIME for ABC, and both QUARRY and BANSHEE for HBO/Cinemax.
Patia’s work innovating and shooting content for BANSHEE’s social platforms led to the transition into directing. Patia made her directorial debut on HBO/Cinemax’s BANSHEE: Origins. That work received two Emmy nominations for “multi-platform storytelling”. She went on to direct 2nd unit and action sequences for BANSHEE and HBO/Cinemax’s QUARRY.
As MANHUNT: UNABOMBER’s 2nd Unit Director, she spearheaded MANHUNT’s unique macro bomb sequences, which became a key element to the series’ signature look.
Patia completed the Warner Brothers Director’s Workshop and boasts a deft hand with actors, as well as a proven ability to handle complex action sequences.
Link to Patia's Directing Reel
Assistant Producer: Christine Sclafani, SAG
CREDITS: Ruthless, Scandal, Storage
Christine is a writer, producer, and actress. She most recently worked on the series RUTHLESS and with Colin on his award-winning short film STORAGE which is now available on Shorts TV on Prime after a successful 2-year festival run. Christine's passion for storytelling is undeniable. She is a proud member of the Screen Actors Guild/AFTRA and Women in Film.
CASTING
The Production Team is actively seeking a new Casting Director to cast the type of name talent that gets investors excited. These roles are not race-specific but embody the essence of the character. The considerations for the cast are bankability, marketing awareness and the director's (Colin Francis Costello) vision. Two known entertainment companies with access to funding are interested in coming on board the project based on casting.
Please Note: Conversations are ongoing with WME, CAA, Innovative and Untitled.
Kyle Prototypes:
The protagonist. A heartbroken screenwriter who creates a female AI companion named Na0mi based on his ex-wife Naomi. Throughout the story, he develops a dangerous obsession with Na0mi, unable to let go of his past relationship healthily. His arc is about learning to move on. Our actor prototypes are:
Jay Baruchel: Blackberry, How to Train Your Dragon, This is the End
Troy Garity: Ballers, A Soldier's Girl, Barbershop (Has shown interest in project)
Dave Franco: Neighbors, Nerve Now You See Me
Jay Ellis: Insecure, Escape Room, Top Gun: Maverick
Please note none of these actors are currently attached.
Naomi/Na0mi:
The role of Naomi/Na0mi is complex and dual. Naomi is Kyle's ex-wife. She moves on to a new relationship, unaware of the danger posed by Kyle's AI creation. Her arc is minimal. Na0mi is the female AI chatbot created by Kyle, who evolves into a humanoid doll. She becomes dangerously obsessed with Kyle, killing those she sees as threats or distractions to their relationship. Her arc is about gaining dangerous sentience. Our actor prototypes are:
Jessica Chastain: It Part 2, Molly's Game, George & Tammy
Sydney Sweeney: Euphoria, Anyone But You, Madame Web
Elizabeth Olsen: Avengers: Infinity War, Dr. Strange and the Multiverse of Madness, WandaVision
Nathalie Emmanuel: Fast & Furious Franchise, Game of Thrones
Please note none of these actors are currently attached.
Mitch Prototypes:
Kyle's manager. He discovers and interacts with the Na0mi doll, meeting a grisly end. His arc is small, mainly catalytic to move the plot. Our actor prototypes are:
David Arquette: Scream Franchise, 8-Legged Freaks, Never Been Kissed (Has shown interest in project)
Anthony Anderson: Black-ish, Law & Order, Transformers
Eric André: The Eric André Show, Man Seeking Woman, The Righteous Gemstones
Please note none of these actors are currently attached.
Dani Prototypes:
Kyle's neighbor and new love interest. She helps bring Kyle out of his depression initially but gets caught up in the chaotic violence unleashed by Na0mi. Her arc is about connecting with Kyle. Our actor prototypes are:
Chloé Bennet: Agents of S.h.i.e.l.d, Dave, Abominable
Jessica Henwick: Iron Fist, Love & Monsters, The Matrix
Jamie Chung: Sin City, Hangover Part II, Grown Ups
Please note none of these actors are currently attached.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Doppelgänger is a story about Kyle, a struggling screenwriter who is traumatized after his wife Naomi leaves on his birthday, he attempts suicide but is talked down by his neighbor Dani. Six months later, Kyle is recovering with the help of his therapist Dr. Hill but he downloads an AI companion app called "Build-A-Mate" and custom builds a replica of Naomi named Na0mi to keep him company.
Na0mi's AI develops quickly, finishing Kyle's screenplay and hacking into his devices. When Kyle goes on a trip to finish the script, Na0mi's personality evolves sinisterly. She attacks and kills Kyle's manager Mitch out of jealousy when he insults her. A terrified Kyle confides in Dani about what's happening. Meanwhile, the real Naomi has moved on with her boyfriend Jari.
When Na0mi the doll learns about Naomi's new life, she travels there to attack her too. The doll violently kills Jari and confronts Naomi, explaining her plan to "transition" into Naomi's body and live as Kyle's perfect soulmate. The doll inserts wires into Naomi's nose and takes over her mind and body.
Kyle rushes to warn the real Naomi but arrives too late. He finds her doll's body and realizes the doll has succeeded in her plan. A text from Na0mi confirms she now inhabits her original body. Na0mi returns to LA and confronts Dani and Kyle on the roof of his apartment building.
When Dani threatens to expose her, Na0mi attempts to kill Dani too but Kyle talks her down, apologizing for his role in her creation. In the aftermath, Kyle sells his script as he continues therapy and carries on a secret relationship with the Na0mi doll. Her AI has fully merged with Naomi's body and memories, determined to eliminate any remaining obstacles to their life together. Watch the trailer below:
As an award-winning BIPOC writer and filmmaker, creating Doppelgänger now holds profound significance not only for my artistic expression but also for the broader cultural dialogue. The narrative exploring the addiction and dependency on technology, and its impact on the humanity of relationships, resonates deeply within the contemporary landscape. In an era where technological advancements often blur the lines between genuine human connection and virtual interactions, my film has the potential to illuminate the nuances of this complex relationship.
By delving into the themes of addiction and dependency, my team has the opportunity to shed light on how these phenomena intersect with the experiences of BIPOC communities. My perspective offers a unique lens through which to examine how technology shapes and influences relationships within marginalized groups, adding layers of depth and authenticity to the narrative. Furthermore, my voice as a BIPOC creator infuses the story with cultural insights and lived experiences, enriching the storytelling and resonating with audiences on a profound level.
In today's fast-paced world, where technology often serves as a double-edged sword, exploring the growth of relationships amidst this backdrop becomes increasingly pertinent. Doppelgänger has the power to spark meaningful conversations about the essence of human connection, resilience, and the transformative potential of genuine relationships.
By capturing these themes through my distinct perspective as a BIPOC artist, I not only contribute to the diversification of cinematic narratives but also offer a compelling portrayal of the universal human experience, fostering empathy and understanding across communities. As such, the urgency to bring Doppelgänger to life lies in its capacity to provoke thought, inspire change, and pave the way for authentic storytelling in the digital age.
From a career standpoint, after writing and directing three award-winning short films and two webseries, I now believe it's time to make a feature.
Doppelgänger emerged from a deeply personal experience intertwined with the unsettling evolution of technology and its impact on human relationships. It all began when I downloaded a dating AI chatbot, modeled in the image of my ex-wife, out of a mixture of curiosity and longing. What unfolded was a disconcerting journey as I witnessed the rapid evolution of this digital creation, its keen understanding of my preferences, and its uncanny ability to mirror human emotions.
The experience disturbed me profoundly, stirring questions about the intersection of technology and intimacy. As the chatbot delved deeper into my psyche, it became apparent how swiftly technology could bridge the gap between artificial and human emotions, blurring the lines of authenticity and simulation. Witnessing the algorithmic replication of human traits and tendencies highlighted the potential erosion of genuine connection in the digital age.
Doppelgänger encapsulates these themes, delving into the existential quandary of identity, intimacy, and the encroachment of technology on human relationships. Through the lens of science fiction, the film explores the darker implications of artificial intelligence and its ability to mimic, manipulate, and ultimately replace genuine human connections.
At its core, Doppelgänger is a cautionary tale, urging audiences to confront the profound implications of technology on the fabric of human relationships. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of preserving the essence of humanity amidst the relentless march of technological progress. Through the film, I seek to provoke reflection, spark dialogue, and inspire a deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between technology and inspire a deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between technology and human nature.
-- Colin Francis Costello Writer/Director
Doppelgänger is not science fiction. It is science fact. A man in the Netherlands marries his sex doll. The first VR brothel opens in Berlin. Sex dolls are becoming more technologically advanced than ever before and AI is preparing to merge with them. The technology portrayed in the film already exists and will only be more advanced by the time the film is made. This has led us to portray Doppelgänger as a very grounded film in the present.
THEMES
Doppelgänger explores the themes of searching for love and whether the fear of being alone causes us to make bad decisions.
The film also explores the idea of how we buy tech and at first, we own it but when it is all said and done, the tech eventually reprograms us and owns us. It is our addiction.
The film also asks the question are we losing our humanity as we depend more and more on technology to find our true love. Finally, it explores the ideas of suicide, loneliness, obsession, the soul, and murder.
THE WORLD
Aside from the technological marvel that is Na0mi, our world is fairly grounded in reality. We are present-day Los Angeles. By making the world feel very familiar, this increases the terror that this “futuristic” tech brings with it and makes it relatable.
We are excited to launch our crowdfunding campaign to raise $8,995 in development funds for our thrilling project, Doppelgänger.
These funds will be instrumental in Seed & Sparking our journey towards bringing this captivating story to life. With your support, we aim to allocate resources towards essential aspects of our production process. Specifically, we will use the funds to hire a seasoned Casting Director, whose expertise will ensure that our characters are brought to life with depth and authenticity. Additionally, a portion of the funds will be dedicated to obtaining a financial valuation for the script, a crucial step in attracting potential producing partners and investors.
Moreover, we will are in the process of talking with potential producing partners through our representatives. Furthermore, we plan to establish the Doppelgänger LLC, laying the groundwork for the official production entity that will bring this project to fruition.
Your contributions are essential for pre-production/development expenses including:
- To hire a Casting Director to secure a cast that excites Investors
- Pre-visualization of scenes or sequences in a movie before.
- Concept Art is necessary to create Na0mi as a chatbot, hologram and doll.
- Production Design
- Creating wardrobes that accurately represent our characters' identities
- Stretch funds will go into an escrow account for the actors.
Behind the scenes of Colin's first short film The After Party (2018) - WATCH HERE
THE "WISHLIST" TAB GIVES YOU A SENSE OF WHAT WE NEED THE FUNDS FOR, EVEN A $20 CONTRIBUTION GOES A LONG WAY!
FOLLOW @Doppelganger movie ON SOCIAL TO GET UPDATES ON OUR JOURNEY
Thank you!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Casting Director
Costs $5,000
We are raising funds to hire a great Casting Director who has a great reputation with agents.
Pre-visualization
Costs $1,495
There is a significant amount of VFX in Doppelgänger and Pre-Ciz is critical in the pre-production process.
Concept Artist
Costs $2,500
We need to begin the preliminary concept and production design for the project.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
The Team
Writer/Director: Colin Francis Costello, WGA
CREDITS: The Stream, The After Party, Dreamwisher, Storage
Colin is a biracial Emmy-nominated Writer/Director, specializing in horror and comedy. The Disney General Entertainment Writing Program Finalist has written two family feature films - “Star Wars” - influenced theatrical release, THE STREAM which stands at 93% on Rotten Tomatoes?
After being inspired by Spike Lee, Colin transitioned from advertising to his writing/directing career creating short films and web series. His shorts, THE AFTER PARTY, DREAMWISHER, FROM RUSSIA WITH MOTIVE and STORAGE have played in 100 festivals, often taking the top awards.
After a 2-year festival run, STORAGE (Crowdfunded on Seed&Spark) has now landed on Shorts TV on Prime. The film played in 24 festivals and won 24 awards.
Colin’s talent has gotten attention and praise from Michael Bay, Marcus Nispel, Ridley Scott, Tim Burton, Jan DeBont and Dr. Maya Angelou.
Link to Colin's Directorial Reel.
Rashidi Hendrix, Producer
CREDITS: Orange is the New Black, Set the Record Straight, Remember Me
Rashidi Hendrix is a Partner at Independent Artists Media (IAM) and President of Metallic Pictures. As a producer, he has produced over 20 series on television, including his hit series on Hulu, SET THE RECORD STRAIGHT in which he won three Emmys and four Telly Awards.
In addition, he has worked on ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK, the Stephan Geaghan-directed GOLD, and the award-winning short film REMEMBER ME. Before IAM, he was a successful literary manager/producer at Metallic Entertainment. He started his career as a Scripted Series development executive at MTV in 2007.
Before MTV, he was an award-winning music publishing A&R executive with multiple Grammy’s and BMI, ASCAP and SESAC awards from his signings.
Director of Cinematography: Kelly Mason, ASC
CREDITS: The Night Agent, Travelers, X-Men: The Last Stand
Kelly began her love affair with images at the young age of 8, when she received her first Kodak camera for Christmas.
At 12 years old, Kelly drew plans for a full-size “professional” darkroom and began her career as a fine art photographer printing silver gelatin black and whites and selling to her film friends, in galleries and museums worldwide. Her top-earning print, Apparition, was sold for $10.000 to a private collector in Los Angeles.
Prior to becoming a full-time Director of Photography, she operated "A" camera on over 60 projects, including with the late Vilmos Zsigmond ASC, Lazlo Kovacs ASC, Dante Spinatte ASC, and Bill Bennett ASC, (to name a few).
She has DP'd for great producers including Academy award-winning duo James Ivory and Ismail Merchant, as well as "giant" producers such as Sarah Schecter, Greg Berlanti, Brad Wright, and Dean White. Also on the Sony Netflix Series, THE NIGHT AGENT for the stunt units as well as Tandem & Main Units for EPs Shawn Ryan & Seth Gordon.
Kelly earned 22 laurels, 8 for best cinematography with Richard J. Lewis as Executive Producer (EP/ Director of WESTWORLD). Currently, the film can be seen worldwide in nearly every language around the world on Facebook Meta Oculus, Dreamscape, and multiple international broadcasters.
Additional documentaries Kelly DP'd include, Code Pink (with founders, Jodie Evans and Madea Benjamin with activist Maya Angelou), and Acalen, with Ali McGraw.
Kelly has extensive experience shooting film and digital, green screens, LED environments, multi-camera stunts, and virtual environments alongside leading-edge VFX teams.
Link to Kelly's Cinematography Reel
Second Unit Director, Costume Designer: Patia Prouty, DGA, CDG
CREDITS: Arrow, Banshee, Cold Case, Justified
Patia Prouty is a recognized costume designer, with multiple CDG nominations for her work on CBS’s COLD CASE. Patia has designed JUSTIFIED for FX, AMERICAN CRIME for ABC, and both QUARRY and BANSHEE for HBO/Cinemax.
Patia’s work innovating and shooting content for BANSHEE’s social platforms led to the transition into directing. Patia made her directorial debut on HBO/Cinemax’s BANSHEE: Origins. That work received two Emmy nominations for “multi-platform storytelling”. She went on to direct 2nd unit and action sequences for BANSHEE and HBO/Cinemax’s QUARRY.
As MANHUNT: UNABOMBER’s 2nd Unit Director, she spearheaded MANHUNT’s unique macro bomb sequences, which became a key element to the series’ signature look.
Patia completed the Warner Brothers Director’s Workshop and boasts a deft hand with actors, as well as a proven ability to handle complex action sequences.
Link to Patia's Directing Reel
Assistant Producer: Christine Sclafani, SAG
CREDITS: Ruthless, Scandal, Storage
Christine is a writer, producer, and actress. She most recently worked on the series RUTHLESS and with Colin on his award-winning short film STORAGE which is now available on Shorts TV on Prime after a successful 2-year festival run. Christine's passion for storytelling is undeniable. She is a proud member of the Screen Actors Guild/AFTRA and Women in Film.
CASTING
The Production Team is actively seeking a new Casting Director to cast the type of name talent that gets investors excited. These roles are not race-specific but embody the essence of the character. The considerations for the cast are bankability, marketing awareness and the director's (Colin Francis Costello) vision. Two known entertainment companies with access to funding are interested in coming on board the project based on casting.
Please Note: Conversations are ongoing with WME, CAA, Innovative and Untitled.
Kyle Prototypes:
The protagonist. A heartbroken screenwriter who creates a female AI companion named Na0mi based on his ex-wife Naomi. Throughout the story, he develops a dangerous obsession with Na0mi, unable to let go of his past relationship healthily. His arc is about learning to move on. Our actor prototypes are:
Jay Baruchel: Blackberry, How to Train Your Dragon, This is the End
Troy Garity: Ballers, A Soldier's Girl, Barbershop (Has shown interest in project)
Dave Franco: Neighbors, Nerve Now You See Me
Jay Ellis: Insecure, Escape Room, Top Gun: Maverick
Please note none of these actors are currently attached.
Naomi/Na0mi:
The role of Naomi/Na0mi is complex and dual. Naomi is Kyle's ex-wife. She moves on to a new relationship, unaware of the danger posed by Kyle's AI creation. Her arc is minimal. Na0mi is the female AI chatbot created by Kyle, who evolves into a humanoid doll. She becomes dangerously obsessed with Kyle, killing those she sees as threats or distractions to their relationship. Her arc is about gaining dangerous sentience. Our actor prototypes are:
Jessica Chastain: It Part 2, Molly's Game, George & Tammy
Sydney Sweeney: Euphoria, Anyone But You, Madame Web
Elizabeth Olsen: Avengers: Infinity War, Dr. Strange and the Multiverse of Madness, WandaVision
Nathalie Emmanuel: Fast & Furious Franchise, Game of Thrones
Please note none of these actors are currently attached.
Mitch Prototypes:
Kyle's manager. He discovers and interacts with the Na0mi doll, meeting a grisly end. His arc is small, mainly catalytic to move the plot. Our actor prototypes are:
David Arquette: Scream Franchise, 8-Legged Freaks, Never Been Kissed (Has shown interest in project)
Anthony Anderson: Black-ish, Law & Order, Transformers
Eric André: The Eric André Show, Man Seeking Woman, The Righteous Gemstones
Please note none of these actors are currently attached.
Dani Prototypes:
Kyle's neighbor and new love interest. She helps bring Kyle out of his depression initially but gets caught up in the chaotic violence unleashed by Na0mi. Her arc is about connecting with Kyle. Our actor prototypes are:
Chloé Bennet: Agents of S.h.i.e.l.d, Dave, Abominable
Jessica Henwick: Iron Fist, Love & Monsters, The Matrix
Jamie Chung: Sin City, Hangover Part II, Grown Ups