FAIRGROUND
Greencastle, Indiana | Film Short
Family, Drama
Help us bring awareness to untold Midwest stories, particularly those of girls and women, showcasing the beauty of a rural American childhood.
FAIRGROUND
Greencastle, Indiana | Film Short
Family, Drama
1 Campaigns | Indiana, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $18,355 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
77 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
Help us bring awareness to untold Midwest stories, particularly those of girls and women, showcasing the beauty of a rural American childhood.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Last year, I got stuck in LA traffic behind a disassembled purple Tilt-A-Whirl… and, WOW, so many beautiful memories of summers spent at the county fair flooded my mind – the Midwest humidity, carnival rides, bingo games, intense childhood crushes, funnel cakes… youth, amirite?
But, when I looked at this rusty old carnival ride in eternal stand-still traffic, I had a profound realization…
Was this Tilt-A-Whirl a bittersweet metaphor for the realities of growing up?
As I continue to evolve, I yearn to understand the influences that shaped me, navigating the struggle between my beloved family's approval and self-discovery. Growing up is complicated and filled with equal amounts of beauty and heartache – and this Tilt-A-Whirl traffic encounter revealed that to me.
Processing this realization motivated me to write a late '90s love story, exploring the clash between teenage dreams, the gritty realities of family dynamics, and the role of environmental influence.
Join me on a poignant journey through the complexities of self-discovery, where we delve into the beautiful joys and unexpected realities of growing up.
FAIRGROUND centers around our protagonist, MAGGIE, and her journey of self-discovery in the late '90s at her beloved 4H County Fair.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of the local county fair, this story follows Maggie, as she struggles to reconcile her parents' expectations with her own desires, creating a compelling and inquisitive narrative surrounding growing up and finding your identity. Through this film, we explore generational influence and shed light on the unique experiences of girls and women in the Midwest.
- Coming-of-Age & Adolescent Longing: This story captures the essence of coming-of-age, particularly the dreams, desires, and challenges experienced during adolescence. It portrays the longing for love, belonging, and finding one's path in life.
- Generational Influence: FAIRGROUND delves into how the experiences, beliefs, and behaviors passed down through generations shape the characters' lives and relationships.
- Cultural Dynamics: FAIRGROUND delves into the values, traditions, and community mindset unique to the Midwest, portraying the intricate relationships between individuals, families, and the larger community. The film examines how these cultural aspects shape the characters' experiences and self-identity.
- Midwest Femininity: The film explores women's challenges, expectations, and complexities in defining their identity and navigating relationships within their environment. FAIRGROUND highlights the strength, resilience, and unique perspectives of female characters.
Inspired by films I love – FAIRGROUND could be compared thematically and tonally to classic films like DIRTY DANCING and AN EDUCATION while also influenced by the shooting style and pace of more contemporary films like CALL ME BY YOUR NAME and AFTERSUN.
FAIRGROUND is set in rural America in the late-90s, immersing audiences in a distinct world that captures the essence of Midwest culture. The world of FAIRGROUND pulsates with the energy and excitement of summer, where different communities converge, competitions unfold, and personal stories intertwine.
The tone of FAIRGROUND is a delicate balance between nostalgia and realism. It embraces a sense of idealism and yearning for a simpler time while confronting the sometimes harsh realities and challenges within the characters' lives. The film captures the duality of emotions from multiple characters' vantage points, from the youthful longing for love and adventure to the deeper complexities of familial influence and personal growth.
Writer/Director - JESS BERRY
Jess Berry is an award-winning writer, director, producer, and actor living in Los Angeles. Raised on a farm in Indiana, her writing centers on rural-American voices, specifically girls and women, and the complicated impact of Midwest culture on self-identity and relationships. Her most recent film, DAUGHTERS, won the Audience Choice Award at Indy Shorts presented by Heartland International Film Festival and placed in the Top 10 in the Roadmap Writers Short Film Competition. Jess was also a finalist for the 2021 Sundance Episodic Lab with her coming-of-age pilot, LITTLE JESS. Previously, Jess co-produced the Emmy®-Nominated Hulu Original Documentary CHANGING THE GAME (GLAAD Media Award, Critics Choice Nominee, OUTFEST Audience Award, 100% Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, Tribeca World Premiere) and has produced other short-form narratives. She is a proud member of Women In Film and a select participant in the prestigious Women In Film Mentorship Program. Jess received her BFA at Miami University, Ohio.
Cinematographer - ALLISON ANDERSON TRIPLETT
Select credits include - DOUBLESPEAK (dir. Hazel McKibbin, Sundance), WHIPPED (dir. Andrew Wonder), SEVEN MOTHERS (dir. DirectorX), Janell Monae's “Lipstick Lover,” Girl in Red “I’ll Call You Mine,” branded campaigns for Nike, Calvin Klein, ACLU, among others. Jess and Allison quickly bonded over their Midwest roots (Allison hails from Minnesota) and shared a love of filmmaking and farming. Allison and her husband live in the Pacific Northwest, where they own a farm and a flock of sheep.
allisonandersondp.com / @allisonandyou
Editor - SCOTT HANSON
A two-time Emmy Award-winner, Scott Hanson is a film and commercial editor. Originally from the Midwest, Scott's seasoned career spans 15+ years working with directors, production companies, and viral brand campaigns, including the KODAK branded film UNDERSTANDING. Recent credits include Roman Coppola’s SEVEN FACES OF JANE (dir. Boma Illuma, Bentonville Film Festival), WRITE A SONG ABOUT HEARTACHE (dir. Jonny Look, Slamdance), FOR THOSE WHO DON’T KNOW HOW (dir. Brian Chamberlayne, Palm Springs International), and upcoming feature release, FIELDS OF GREEN AND GOLD (dir. Anders Lindwall). Scott is consistently drawn to rural coming-of-age narratives and continually invests in underdog stories.
hellohanson.com / @scootpequeno
Producer - ELENA WIENBERG
Elena Weinberg is a Producer who works both commercially and in independent film. She produces photo and video shoots on the in-house content team for goodr sunglasses. She co-owns TurtleDove Films with her husband, with which they have made 12 short films, a web series (#ATown, winner of Best Webseries, Austin Chronicle), and a feature film (A Room Full of Nothing, winner of the Maverick Award, MethodFest). She is in development for her first feature film as a writer (Sunset Lanes, Best Comedy Feature Script, Austin Revolution Film Festival) and regularly produces for indie film companies such as Space Pug Pics & HaChaCha Productions, among other freelance work as a Producer and AD. Elena is also passionate about amplifying new voices and screens for film festivals such as SXSW and provides freelance script coverage in addition to her work as a Producer and AD. You can find her watching basketball with her cats when she's not taking on the world one call sheet at a time. Go Spurs Go!
elenaweinberg.com / @elenaisrad
Producer - GIULIA ALEXANDER
Giulia is a creative producer based in Los Angeles with experience in documentary, narrative, music videos, and commercials. Giulia was an associate producer on the feature film BEST SUMMER EVER, which premiered at the 2020 SXSW Film Festival and was picked up by Hulu. It was hailed as a ‘Critics Pick’ by the New York Times and praised widely for its groundbreaking inclusivity. Since then, she has produced in-house at the non-fiction studio XTR (THEY CALL ME MAGIC, Apple+), where she was part of documentaries like LAKOTA NATION VS. THE UNITED STATES and BUTTERFLY IN THE SKY. Giulia’s work focuses on telling human stories with inclusive and representative casts and crews, and she continues to do so in all of her ventures.
giuliaalexander.com / @galexalexander
Art Department / Set Decorator - ERIC FRANKEL
Select credits include THE BEAR (FX), NIGHT SKY (AMAZON), THE CHI (SHOWTIME), WIDOW (Dir. Steve McQueen)
Costumer - LARIANA SANTIAGO
Select credits include THE BEAR (FX), SOMEBODY SOMEWHERE (HBO), NIGHT SKY (AMAZON), CHICAGO MED (NBC)
Budget Breakdown
Our total budget for this project is $50,000. However, we only need a smaller portion to get filming! Here is a breakdown of our costs and what it’s going to take to get this project made:
- Talent - 6x Key SAG Actors Rates, SAG Fringes *The Screen Actor's Guild (SAG) ensures fair wages for actors and pays into their healthcare and pension. This helps FAIRGROUND attach the best working talent!
- Crew - Producer Labor, Crew & Art Department Labor, Kit Fees
- Travel & Lodging - Airfare, Mileage, Lodging, and all travel costs to get our Cast & Crew to Indiana
- Equipment & 16mm Film - Camera, Lenses, Lighting, Grip & Electric Rentals and 16mm Film Stock, Processing & Scanning
- Art - Wardrobe, Props, Hair & Make-up
- Admin/Legal/Insurance - LLC Filling, Payroll, Insurance, Office Supplies & Printing
- Post Production - Editorial, Music, Color, Sound Design & Mix, DCP Creation
Two-Part Funding Approach
Since we are under such a tight timeline to shoot during the actual 2023 Putnam County Fair, we have a TWO-PART funding approach to complete this project.
- IGNITE CAMPAIGN – Part 1, $17,600: During this portion of our funding, we are trying to get money in the bank to pay our cast and crew. A crowdfunding campaign is a full-time job in itself! And to keep our team’s focus on prepping and creating a great film, we will raise the IGNITE FUNDS to get us started. Additional expenses outside of this fundraising round will be covered by us personally and recouped in our second crowdfunding effort.
- FINISH THE FILM CAMPAIGN – Part 2, $32,400: This is the second push of funding to complete the project. Part 2 will start after the film is actually shot and “in the can!” We will be able to completely focus on putting our efforts into raising the entirety of our budget after we are done filming.
Stretch Goals
Since we will need to raise a total of $50,000 – any funds raised OVER our goal will IMMEDIATELY go to lowering our Part 2, FINISH THE FILM CAMPAIGN. Here are some key Stretch Goals that illustrate what will get covered with the additional funds raised!
- At $28,250 we can cover ALL travel and lodging costs
- At $36,650 we can cover all Film Stock, Processing & Scan costs
- At $40,250 we can cover all Grip & Electric (lighting) costs
- At $42,800 we can cover all Props, Wardrobe and Art Department costs
- At $44,800 we can cover all Post Production costs (like the edit, color, sound & mix)
- At $50,000 we can cover all Admin/Fees/Legal costs AND BE FULLY FUNDED!!
We have an industry-leading creative team ready to make this film happen, and we need support from our community to help bring this story to life.
Contribute
Contribute what you can! Check out our list of incentives – we have various opportunities to get involved and be a part of this film! We are endlessly grateful for your support. ANY amount helps!
Follow Us on Seed&Spark
If we gain 250 "Follows" on the Seed & Spark platform, we'll unlock the Filmmaker Perks offered by Seed & Spark. This will help gain full funding for FAIRGROUND!
Stay Connected
Follow us on Instagram @fairground_film for updates, BTS, and step-by-step moments throughout the whole project’s production process. You can also connect with us on Fairground Film's Facebook.
Share with a Friend
We are only as far-reaching as our own network! Send to a friend and anyone who might connect with this story. Help us share our campaign on social media and spread the word! If you don't know what to write, we got you – here is a copy to COPY/PASTE to connect with friends!
Help filmmaker @brrygood by supporting her heartfelt coming-of-age drama FAIRGROUND about growing up in the rural Midwest.
Let's do this! @seedandspark: seedandspark.com/fund/fairground / @fairground_film
I just watched the FAIRGROUND sizzle video by filmmaker @brrygood, and WOW, you've got to support this Midwest short film! Help get this film made with @seedandspark: seedandspark.com/fund/fairground / @fairground_film
I'm so excited to see the short film FAIRGROUND by Putnam County native director/writer Jess Berry, @brrygood. Support her telling Midwest stories @seedandspark: seedandspark.com/fund/fairground / @fairground_film
Your support & encouragement is invaluable to us!
We can't tell this story without you!
@fairground_film
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Talent
Costs $11,250
We are attracting professional-level talent to the project by being a SAG (screen actors guild) signatory project.
Crew Labor
Costs $5,500
While we offer reduced rates to our crew, we are trying to pay them a minimum to work on FAIRGROUND!
Seed & Spark Fees
Costs $850
Seed & Spark will take 5% of our campaign support to cover their admin requirements.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
We have an insane team behind this project – from Sundance Alum Cinematographer Allison Anderson Triplett to our industry-smashing Art Department hot off Season 2 of THE BEAR (FX), FAIRGROUND is full of award-winning talent, and we couldn't be more thrilled with their contributions to the film.
Writer/Director - JESS BERRY
Jess Berry is an award-winning writer, director, producer, and actor living in Los Angeles. Raised on a farm in Indiana, her writing centers on rural-American voices, specifically girls and women, and the complicated impact of Midwest culture on self-identity and relationships. Her most recent film, DAUGHTERS, won the Audience Choice Award at Indy Shorts presented by Heartland International Film Festival and placed in the Top 10 in the Roadmap Writers Short Film Competition. Jess was also a finalist for the 2021 Sundance Episodic Lab with her coming-of-age pilot, LITTLE JESS. Previously, Jess co-produced the Emmy®-Nominated Hulu Original Documentary CHANGING THE GAME (GLAAD Media Award, Critics Choice Nominee, OUTFEST Audience Award, 100% Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, Tribeca World Premiere) and has produced other short-form narratives. She is a proud member of Women In Film and a select participant in the prestigious Women In Film Mentorship Program. Jess received her BFA at Miami University, Ohio.
Cinematographer - ALLISON ANDERSON TRIPLETT
Select credits include - DOUBLESPEAK (dir. Hazel McKibbin, Sundance), WHIPPED (dir. Andrew Wonder), SEVEN MOTHERS (dir. DirectorX), Janell Monae's “Lipstick Lover,” Girl in Red “I’ll Call You Mine,” branded campaigns for Nike, Calvin Klein, ACLU, among others. Jess and Allison quickly bonded over their Midwest roots (Allison hails from Minnesota) and shared a love of filmmaking and farming. Allison and her husband live in the Pacific Northwest, where they own a farm and a flock of sheep.
allisonandersondp.com / @allisonandyou
Editor - SCOTT HANSON
A two-time Emmy Award-winner, Scott Hanson is a film and commercial editor. Originally from the Midwest, Scott's seasoned career spans 15+ years working with directors, production companies, and viral brand campaigns, including the KODAK branded film UNDERSTANDING. Recent credits include Roman Coppola’s SEVEN FACES OF JANE (dir. Boma Illuma, Bentonville Film Festival), WRITE A SONG ABOUT HEARTACHE (dir. Jonny Look, Slamdance), FOR THOSE WHO DON’T KNOW HOW (dir. Brian Chamberlayne, Palm Springs International), and upcoming feature release, FIELDS OF GREEN AND GOLD (dir. Anders Lindwall). Scott is consistently drawn to rural coming-of-age narratives and continually invests in underdog stories.
hellohanson.com / @scootpequeno
Producer - ELENA WIENBERG
Elena Weinberg is a Producer who works both commercially and in independent film. She produces photo and video shoots on the in-house content team for goodr sunglasses. She co-owns TurtleDove Films with her husband, with which they have made 12 short films, a web series (#ATown, winner of Best Webseries, Austin Chronicle), and a feature film (A Room Full of Nothing, winner of the Maverick Award, MethodFest). She is in development for her first feature film as a writer (Sunset Lanes, Best Comedy Feature Script, Austin Revolution Film Festival) and regularly produces for indie film companies such as Space Pug Pics & HaChaCha Productions, among other freelance work as a Producer and AD. Elena is also passionate about amplifying new voices and screens for film festivals such as SXSW and provides freelance script coverage in addition to her work as a Producer and AD. You can find her watching basketball with her cats when she's not taking on the world one call sheet at a time. Go Spurs Go!
elenaweinberg.com / @elenaisrad
Producer - GIULIA ALEXANDER
Giulia is a creative producer based in Los Angeles with experience in documentary, narrative, music videos, and commercials. Giulia was an associate producer on the feature film BEST SUMMER EVER, which premiered at the 2020 SXSW Film Festival and was picked up by Hulu. It was hailed as a ‘Critics Pick’ by the New York Times and praised widely for its groundbreaking inclusivity. Since then, she has produced documentaries, commercials, music videos, and will add a narrative short to that list with FAIRGROUND. Giulia’s work focuses on telling human stories with inclusive and representative casts and crews, and she continues to do so in all of her ventures.
Art Department / Set Decorator - ERIC FRANKEL
Select credits include THE BEAR (FX), NIGHT SKY (AMAZON), THE CHI (SHOWTIME), WIDOW (Dir. Steve McQueen)
Costumer - LARIANA SANTIAGO
Select credits include THE BEAR (FX), SOMEBODY SOMEWHERE (HBO), NIGHT SKY (AMAZON), CHICAGO MED (NBC)
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Last year, I got stuck in LA traffic behind a disassembled purple Tilt-A-Whirl… and, WOW, so many beautiful memories of summers spent at the county fair flooded my mind – the Midwest humidity, carnival rides, bingo games, intense childhood crushes, funnel cakes… youth, amirite?
But, when I looked at this rusty old carnival ride in eternal stand-still traffic, I had a profound realization…
Was this Tilt-A-Whirl a bittersweet metaphor for the realities of growing up?
As I continue to evolve, I yearn to understand the influences that shaped me, navigating the struggle between my beloved family's approval and self-discovery. Growing up is complicated and filled with equal amounts of beauty and heartache – and this Tilt-A-Whirl traffic encounter revealed that to me.
Processing this realization motivated me to write a late '90s love story, exploring the clash between teenage dreams, the gritty realities of family dynamics, and the role of environmental influence.
Join me on a poignant journey through the complexities of self-discovery, where we delve into the beautiful joys and unexpected realities of growing up.
FAIRGROUND centers around our protagonist, MAGGIE, and her journey of self-discovery in the late '90s at her beloved 4H County Fair.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of the local county fair, this story follows Maggie, as she struggles to reconcile her parents' expectations with her own desires, creating a compelling and inquisitive narrative surrounding growing up and finding your identity. Through this film, we explore generational influence and shed light on the unique experiences of girls and women in the Midwest.
- Coming-of-Age & Adolescent Longing: This story captures the essence of coming-of-age, particularly the dreams, desires, and challenges experienced during adolescence. It portrays the longing for love, belonging, and finding one's path in life.
- Generational Influence: FAIRGROUND delves into how the experiences, beliefs, and behaviors passed down through generations shape the characters' lives and relationships.
- Cultural Dynamics: FAIRGROUND delves into the values, traditions, and community mindset unique to the Midwest, portraying the intricate relationships between individuals, families, and the larger community. The film examines how these cultural aspects shape the characters' experiences and self-identity.
- Midwest Femininity: The film explores women's challenges, expectations, and complexities in defining their identity and navigating relationships within their environment. FAIRGROUND highlights the strength, resilience, and unique perspectives of female characters.
Inspired by films I love – FAIRGROUND could be compared thematically and tonally to classic films like DIRTY DANCING and AN EDUCATION while also influenced by the shooting style and pace of more contemporary films like CALL ME BY YOUR NAME and AFTERSUN.
FAIRGROUND is set in rural America in the late-90s, immersing audiences in a distinct world that captures the essence of Midwest culture. The world of FAIRGROUND pulsates with the energy and excitement of summer, where different communities converge, competitions unfold, and personal stories intertwine.
The tone of FAIRGROUND is a delicate balance between nostalgia and realism. It embraces a sense of idealism and yearning for a simpler time while confronting the sometimes harsh realities and challenges within the characters' lives. The film captures the duality of emotions from multiple characters' vantage points, from the youthful longing for love and adventure to the deeper complexities of familial influence and personal growth.
Writer/Director - JESS BERRY
Jess Berry is an award-winning writer, director, producer, and actor living in Los Angeles. Raised on a farm in Indiana, her writing centers on rural-American voices, specifically girls and women, and the complicated impact of Midwest culture on self-identity and relationships. Her most recent film, DAUGHTERS, won the Audience Choice Award at Indy Shorts presented by Heartland International Film Festival and placed in the Top 10 in the Roadmap Writers Short Film Competition. Jess was also a finalist for the 2021 Sundance Episodic Lab with her coming-of-age pilot, LITTLE JESS. Previously, Jess co-produced the Emmy®-Nominated Hulu Original Documentary CHANGING THE GAME (GLAAD Media Award, Critics Choice Nominee, OUTFEST Audience Award, 100% Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, Tribeca World Premiere) and has produced other short-form narratives. She is a proud member of Women In Film and a select participant in the prestigious Women In Film Mentorship Program. Jess received her BFA at Miami University, Ohio.
Cinematographer - ALLISON ANDERSON TRIPLETT
Select credits include - DOUBLESPEAK (dir. Hazel McKibbin, Sundance), WHIPPED (dir. Andrew Wonder), SEVEN MOTHERS (dir. DirectorX), Janell Monae's “Lipstick Lover,” Girl in Red “I’ll Call You Mine,” branded campaigns for Nike, Calvin Klein, ACLU, among others. Jess and Allison quickly bonded over their Midwest roots (Allison hails from Minnesota) and shared a love of filmmaking and farming. Allison and her husband live in the Pacific Northwest, where they own a farm and a flock of sheep.
allisonandersondp.com / @allisonandyou
Editor - SCOTT HANSON
A two-time Emmy Award-winner, Scott Hanson is a film and commercial editor. Originally from the Midwest, Scott's seasoned career spans 15+ years working with directors, production companies, and viral brand campaigns, including the KODAK branded film UNDERSTANDING. Recent credits include Roman Coppola’s SEVEN FACES OF JANE (dir. Boma Illuma, Bentonville Film Festival), WRITE A SONG ABOUT HEARTACHE (dir. Jonny Look, Slamdance), FOR THOSE WHO DON’T KNOW HOW (dir. Brian Chamberlayne, Palm Springs International), and upcoming feature release, FIELDS OF GREEN AND GOLD (dir. Anders Lindwall). Scott is consistently drawn to rural coming-of-age narratives and continually invests in underdog stories.
hellohanson.com / @scootpequeno
Producer - ELENA WIENBERG
Elena Weinberg is a Producer who works both commercially and in independent film. She produces photo and video shoots on the in-house content team for goodr sunglasses. She co-owns TurtleDove Films with her husband, with which they have made 12 short films, a web series (#ATown, winner of Best Webseries, Austin Chronicle), and a feature film (A Room Full of Nothing, winner of the Maverick Award, MethodFest). She is in development for her first feature film as a writer (Sunset Lanes, Best Comedy Feature Script, Austin Revolution Film Festival) and regularly produces for indie film companies such as Space Pug Pics & HaChaCha Productions, among other freelance work as a Producer and AD. Elena is also passionate about amplifying new voices and screens for film festivals such as SXSW and provides freelance script coverage in addition to her work as a Producer and AD. You can find her watching basketball with her cats when she's not taking on the world one call sheet at a time. Go Spurs Go!
elenaweinberg.com / @elenaisrad
Producer - GIULIA ALEXANDER
Giulia is a creative producer based in Los Angeles with experience in documentary, narrative, music videos, and commercials. Giulia was an associate producer on the feature film BEST SUMMER EVER, which premiered at the 2020 SXSW Film Festival and was picked up by Hulu. It was hailed as a ‘Critics Pick’ by the New York Times and praised widely for its groundbreaking inclusivity. Since then, she has produced in-house at the non-fiction studio XTR (THEY CALL ME MAGIC, Apple+), where she was part of documentaries like LAKOTA NATION VS. THE UNITED STATES and BUTTERFLY IN THE SKY. Giulia’s work focuses on telling human stories with inclusive and representative casts and crews, and she continues to do so in all of her ventures.
giuliaalexander.com / @galexalexander
Art Department / Set Decorator - ERIC FRANKEL
Select credits include THE BEAR (FX), NIGHT SKY (AMAZON), THE CHI (SHOWTIME), WIDOW (Dir. Steve McQueen)
Costumer - LARIANA SANTIAGO
Select credits include THE BEAR (FX), SOMEBODY SOMEWHERE (HBO), NIGHT SKY (AMAZON), CHICAGO MED (NBC)
Budget Breakdown
Our total budget for this project is $50,000. However, we only need a smaller portion to get filming! Here is a breakdown of our costs and what it’s going to take to get this project made:
- Talent - 6x Key SAG Actors Rates, SAG Fringes *The Screen Actor's Guild (SAG) ensures fair wages for actors and pays into their healthcare and pension. This helps FAIRGROUND attach the best working talent!
- Crew - Producer Labor, Crew & Art Department Labor, Kit Fees
- Travel & Lodging - Airfare, Mileage, Lodging, and all travel costs to get our Cast & Crew to Indiana
- Equipment & 16mm Film - Camera, Lenses, Lighting, Grip & Electric Rentals and 16mm Film Stock, Processing & Scanning
- Art - Wardrobe, Props, Hair & Make-up
- Admin/Legal/Insurance - LLC Filling, Payroll, Insurance, Office Supplies & Printing
- Post Production - Editorial, Music, Color, Sound Design & Mix, DCP Creation
Two-Part Funding Approach
Since we are under such a tight timeline to shoot during the actual 2023 Putnam County Fair, we have a TWO-PART funding approach to complete this project.
- IGNITE CAMPAIGN – Part 1, $17,600: During this portion of our funding, we are trying to get money in the bank to pay our cast and crew. A crowdfunding campaign is a full-time job in itself! And to keep our team’s focus on prepping and creating a great film, we will raise the IGNITE FUNDS to get us started. Additional expenses outside of this fundraising round will be covered by us personally and recouped in our second crowdfunding effort.
- FINISH THE FILM CAMPAIGN – Part 2, $32,400: This is the second push of funding to complete the project. Part 2 will start after the film is actually shot and “in the can!” We will be able to completely focus on putting our efforts into raising the entirety of our budget after we are done filming.
Stretch Goals
Since we will need to raise a total of $50,000 – any funds raised OVER our goal will IMMEDIATELY go to lowering our Part 2, FINISH THE FILM CAMPAIGN. Here are some key Stretch Goals that illustrate what will get covered with the additional funds raised!
- At $28,250 we can cover ALL travel and lodging costs
- At $36,650 we can cover all Film Stock, Processing & Scan costs
- At $40,250 we can cover all Grip & Electric (lighting) costs
- At $42,800 we can cover all Props, Wardrobe and Art Department costs
- At $44,800 we can cover all Post Production costs (like the edit, color, sound & mix)
- At $50,000 we can cover all Admin/Fees/Legal costs AND BE FULLY FUNDED!!
We have an industry-leading creative team ready to make this film happen, and we need support from our community to help bring this story to life.
Contribute
Contribute what you can! Check out our list of incentives – we have various opportunities to get involved and be a part of this film! We are endlessly grateful for your support. ANY amount helps!
Follow Us on Seed&Spark
If we gain 250 "Follows" on the Seed & Spark platform, we'll unlock the Filmmaker Perks offered by Seed & Spark. This will help gain full funding for FAIRGROUND!
Stay Connected
Follow us on Instagram @fairground_film for updates, BTS, and step-by-step moments throughout the whole project’s production process. You can also connect with us on Fairground Film's Facebook.
Share with a Friend
We are only as far-reaching as our own network! Send to a friend and anyone who might connect with this story. Help us share our campaign on social media and spread the word! If you don't know what to write, we got you – here is a copy to COPY/PASTE to connect with friends!
Help filmmaker @brrygood by supporting her heartfelt coming-of-age drama FAIRGROUND about growing up in the rural Midwest.
Let's do this! @seedandspark: seedandspark.com/fund/fairground / @fairground_film
I just watched the FAIRGROUND sizzle video by filmmaker @brrygood, and WOW, you've got to support this Midwest short film! Help get this film made with @seedandspark: seedandspark.com/fund/fairground / @fairground_film
I'm so excited to see the short film FAIRGROUND by Putnam County native director/writer Jess Berry, @brrygood. Support her telling Midwest stories @seedandspark: seedandspark.com/fund/fairground / @fairground_film
Your support & encouragement is invaluable to us!
We can't tell this story without you!
@fairground_film
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Talent
Costs $11,250
We are attracting professional-level talent to the project by being a SAG (screen actors guild) signatory project.
Crew Labor
Costs $5,500
While we offer reduced rates to our crew, we are trying to pay them a minimum to work on FAIRGROUND!
Seed & Spark Fees
Costs $850
Seed & Spark will take 5% of our campaign support to cover their admin requirements.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
We have an insane team behind this project – from Sundance Alum Cinematographer Allison Anderson Triplett to our industry-smashing Art Department hot off Season 2 of THE BEAR (FX), FAIRGROUND is full of award-winning talent, and we couldn't be more thrilled with their contributions to the film.
Writer/Director - JESS BERRY
Jess Berry is an award-winning writer, director, producer, and actor living in Los Angeles. Raised on a farm in Indiana, her writing centers on rural-American voices, specifically girls and women, and the complicated impact of Midwest culture on self-identity and relationships. Her most recent film, DAUGHTERS, won the Audience Choice Award at Indy Shorts presented by Heartland International Film Festival and placed in the Top 10 in the Roadmap Writers Short Film Competition. Jess was also a finalist for the 2021 Sundance Episodic Lab with her coming-of-age pilot, LITTLE JESS. Previously, Jess co-produced the Emmy®-Nominated Hulu Original Documentary CHANGING THE GAME (GLAAD Media Award, Critics Choice Nominee, OUTFEST Audience Award, 100% Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, Tribeca World Premiere) and has produced other short-form narratives. She is a proud member of Women In Film and a select participant in the prestigious Women In Film Mentorship Program. Jess received her BFA at Miami University, Ohio.
Cinematographer - ALLISON ANDERSON TRIPLETT
Select credits include - DOUBLESPEAK (dir. Hazel McKibbin, Sundance), WHIPPED (dir. Andrew Wonder), SEVEN MOTHERS (dir. DirectorX), Janell Monae's “Lipstick Lover,” Girl in Red “I’ll Call You Mine,” branded campaigns for Nike, Calvin Klein, ACLU, among others. Jess and Allison quickly bonded over their Midwest roots (Allison hails from Minnesota) and shared a love of filmmaking and farming. Allison and her husband live in the Pacific Northwest, where they own a farm and a flock of sheep.
allisonandersondp.com / @allisonandyou
Editor - SCOTT HANSON
A two-time Emmy Award-winner, Scott Hanson is a film and commercial editor. Originally from the Midwest, Scott's seasoned career spans 15+ years working with directors, production companies, and viral brand campaigns, including the KODAK branded film UNDERSTANDING. Recent credits include Roman Coppola’s SEVEN FACES OF JANE (dir. Boma Illuma, Bentonville Film Festival), WRITE A SONG ABOUT HEARTACHE (dir. Jonny Look, Slamdance), FOR THOSE WHO DON’T KNOW HOW (dir. Brian Chamberlayne, Palm Springs International), and upcoming feature release, FIELDS OF GREEN AND GOLD (dir. Anders Lindwall). Scott is consistently drawn to rural coming-of-age narratives and continually invests in underdog stories.
hellohanson.com / @scootpequeno
Producer - ELENA WIENBERG
Elena Weinberg is a Producer who works both commercially and in independent film. She produces photo and video shoots on the in-house content team for goodr sunglasses. She co-owns TurtleDove Films with her husband, with which they have made 12 short films, a web series (#ATown, winner of Best Webseries, Austin Chronicle), and a feature film (A Room Full of Nothing, winner of the Maverick Award, MethodFest). She is in development for her first feature film as a writer (Sunset Lanes, Best Comedy Feature Script, Austin Revolution Film Festival) and regularly produces for indie film companies such as Space Pug Pics & HaChaCha Productions, among other freelance work as a Producer and AD. Elena is also passionate about amplifying new voices and screens for film festivals such as SXSW and provides freelance script coverage in addition to her work as a Producer and AD. You can find her watching basketball with her cats when she's not taking on the world one call sheet at a time. Go Spurs Go!
elenaweinberg.com / @elenaisrad
Producer - GIULIA ALEXANDER
Giulia is a creative producer based in Los Angeles with experience in documentary, narrative, music videos, and commercials. Giulia was an associate producer on the feature film BEST SUMMER EVER, which premiered at the 2020 SXSW Film Festival and was picked up by Hulu. It was hailed as a ‘Critics Pick’ by the New York Times and praised widely for its groundbreaking inclusivity. Since then, she has produced documentaries, commercials, music videos, and will add a narrative short to that list with FAIRGROUND. Giulia’s work focuses on telling human stories with inclusive and representative casts and crews, and she continues to do so in all of her ventures.
Art Department / Set Decorator - ERIC FRANKEL
Select credits include THE BEAR (FX), NIGHT SKY (AMAZON), THE CHI (SHOWTIME), WIDOW (Dir. Steve McQueen)
Costumer - LARIANA SANTIAGO
Select credits include THE BEAR (FX), SOMEBODY SOMEWHERE (HBO), NIGHT SKY (AMAZON), CHICAGO MED (NBC)