I love riddles so let me ask you one: 

Whats hard to earn but easy to lose? Sometimes saved and sometimes used?

Truth is there's many answers to this riddle. You could say a skill, trust, friendship. But I'll give you a hint: it's the one word that makes the world go round...

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.

.

.

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MONEY

We all need it. We all use it for necessities, pleasure, investments. We live to work, to make money. Sometimes we save it, sometimes we spend it, but we always want more.

If not yourself, I can guarantee you someone you know has googled quickest ways to make money or easy ways to make money. I definitely have and my main character Cassidy certain has.

SO picture this, on the way home today can you come across a sign. A flashing sign that reads

!!!

Personally, my mild paranoia would warn me about exploring something fishy by myself. But with a friend... I'm up for the challenge. There's two options: do you risk it or play it safe. It's all about the risk, the risk you take in life, in friendships, and of course with your money. 

Life is gamble, so why not roll the dice?

Synopsis

Cass and Via, inseparable since childhood, were desperate to leave New York City. Their dream of buying a car was constantly hindered by Cass's gambling addiction. When Cass received an invitation to an exclusive poker night, she convinced Via to join her in a daring scheme: a high-stakes game of deceit. Using fake identities, they infiltrated the elite gathering hosted by Gwen. Everything seemed to go according to plan until Gwen exposed Cass's true identity. To their shock, Gwen's father was the same man Cass owed a substantial debt to. Worse yet, Via had betrayed Cass, setting her up to lose the game. Cornered and desperate, Cass reluctantly agrees to a dangerous game of poison roulette. As the stakes rose, it became clear that one would pay the ultimate price. Just as Cass was about to consume what appeared to be a poisoned drink, Gwen and her friends fell ill. It turned out that Via had spiked their drinks earlier, securing a hefty payout. As they escaped, Via revealed the audacious gamble she had taken. Laughing at their narrow escape, they celebrated their newfound freedom, planning to leave the city that night and embark on a new life together.

Characters

Cassidy

Played by: Doris Gloor

Cassidy, or Cass, is a charismatic thrill-seeker with a taste for risk and an unshakable love for the gamble. Impulsive and spontaneous, she’s the type to leap without looking, often charming her way through tough situations with a mix of confidence—even if it’s more show than substance. Beneath her rebellious, casually stylish appearance lies a deeper vulnerability: Cass’s debts and the consequences of her choices weigh heavily on her, but she keeps running, driven by a fierce desire to escape. She craves freedom, a life full of excitement and chance, even as the stakes keep getting higher.

Via

Played by: Cordelia Klammer

Via is the grounded, pragmatic foil to Cass’s recklessness. Loyal but weary of Cass’s constant schemes and failures, she observes with a sharp, clever eye, all too aware of the pitfalls. Beneath her calm exterior, Via has a knack for subtle manipulation when it serves her interests, especially where money is involved. Like Cass, she wants to escape her financial struggles, but she approaches it with calculated moves and clear goals. Yet, under Cass’s influence, she’s starting to embrace a taste for risk, realizing she’s tired of taking a back seat—and now, she’s ready to take control.

Gwen

Played by: Mikayla Stoltz

Gwenivere, or Gwen, is a woman born into wealth and privilege, skilled in wielding her polished charm to get what she wants. Beneath her practiced politeness lies a sharp and slightly cruel nature, one that revels in subtle manipulation and the power it brings. She’s driven by pride and a deep loyalty to her family’s reputation, always striving to earn her father’s approval. While she enjoys the thrill of risk, it’s the control and influence that truly excite her—she’s not just playing the game; she’s determined to be the one pulling the strings.

Parker

Played by: Dimitri Botsacos

Parker is a wealthy, privileged figure with a laid-back, almost arrogant attitude that borders on indifference. He finds excitement only in the thrill of gambling, where the stakes are high, and the risks make his money feel worthwhile. Amused by the misstep of others, he watches from a comfortable distance, rarely getting too involved. His appearance reflects his flippant nature, giving the impression of someone never fully engaged but always casually in control.

Elle

Played by: Megan Saldanha

Elle is a quiet, mysterous figure who stands loyally by Gwen, drawn to the thrill of danger yet keeping a reserced demeanor. Her style is sleek and minimalist, often in dark tones that convey a sharp, understated elegance.

Tone

This film is tonaly similar to a buddy short. I love the push and pull nature to Cass and Via's friendship. They have very different personalities, but they are both influenced by one another. They know how to push each other, convince one another, rely on each other, but most importantly they deeply care for one another.

Mood Board

For the project’s visual approach, I envision a fast-paced, whimsical, and meticulously stylized aesthetic that mirrors the story's intensity and unpredictability. The tone remains vibrant and light, with humor and wit woven in to keep the energy dynamic. This refined yet spirited approach will give the film a striking visual identity, sustaining a captivating and polished experience throughout.

Color Palette

Director's Statement

This film is my love letter to the thrill of luck and gambling, the bonds of friendship, and the chaos that unfolds when those worlds collide.  I wanted to create a fast, fun, and visually stylized experience that pulls audiences into a world where every choice is a gamble and nothing is what it seems. This story explores how we handle pressure, the consequences of our actions, and how we deceive not only others but sometimes ourselves. 

I love Cassidy and Via as characters and how they interact with each other.  I am drawn to writing characters with strong personalities and deep friendships. I wanted to explore the push and give of Cass and Via’s relationship. They are two sides of the same coin. Cass likes to feel when things are left to chance; she likes to gamble and win. Via wants to be in control but is intrigued by Cass’s chaotic lifestyle. Cass isn’t afraid to fall because she knows Via will be there to catch her. But the coin is flipped when Via takes charge, and now Cass is left with no control without Via to lean on. This film is not just about gambling; it’s about the risks we take every day—trusting people, believing in second chances, and going all in when the odds are stacked against us. I can’t wait to bring this story to life, and I hope you will enjoy the ride as much as I have enjoyed creating it.

I hope you will take this risk with me! But is it really a gamble when you know you are gonna win...