From Under The Bridge
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Drama, Mystery
A lonely high school girl escapes depression and her bullies when she meets the perfect boy online, but is he too good to be true? A bullying & cyberbullying awareness story you won't believe is inspired by real events.
From Under The Bridge
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Drama, Mystery
1 Campaigns | California, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $12,220 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
57 supporters | followers
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A lonely high school girl escapes depression and her bullies when she meets the perfect boy online, but is he too good to be true? A bullying & cyberbullying awareness story you won't believe is inspired by real events.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
This powerful story is inspired by real events.
FROM UNDER THE BRIDGE is a carefully tailored multi-faceted bullying and cyberbullying story. The captivating plot centers around real issues and features an array of characters approaching the story from contrasting angles. The script is powerful, while bringing awareness through creative storytelling.
Clare is a lonely and insecure high school girl, trying to navigate her way through the dark shadows of her depression, which is fueled by multiple factors.
She finds herself in a new chapter of her life, without her mother or any friends, while her bullies target her regularly and with increasing severity. Her loving father is overwhelmed, but trying desperately to bridge the void between them, which hides the secrets behind his daughter's state of mind.
But then suddenly from the darkness there is light. Clare is presented with the possibility of happiness, as she connects with a charming, attractive and seemingly caring teenage boy through social media. He listens to her, compliments and flatters her... and he is in college!
Surely, this chance encounter will change everything? And indeed, it surely does...
This tale is captivating, emotional and shocking. For some, it will be seriously relatable. But more than anything, we hope it leaves you pondering... what can YOU do to help?
PLEASE GRAB THOSE INCENTIVES - WE LOOK FORWARD TO GIVING THEM AWAY!
We Are Filming!
We have a complete cast, crew & production team/plan. We finalized all locations & permits and began filming at the end of August.
How Does This Campaign Help?
With his belief in the story, the awareness the story brings and the desire to help others, Paul James has given his savings to make this film. With this campaign, Paul is recouping some of the associated cost. Paul will not receive any money for his work on this film - he is working for free and fueled by the passion for the project.
The Plan for the Film?
Depending on the status of the pandemic, the intent is to premiere in local theaters. The film is supported by major studio executives, and will be submitted to high profile, high quality film festivals. It will also be considered for distribution via numerous streaming services and networks. And it will be made available through internet channels.
We live in a world where hate and bullying continues to exist and grow.
With social media, bullying has become easier and far more unpredictable. Bullying is no longer a problem primarily existing between people who know one another. Cyberbullying has introduced abuse between strangers, locally and across the world.
Operating from a distance and hidden in the shadows of anonymity, the cyberbully cannot see the current state of the victim OR the impact and effect of their actions. They cannot gauge when a critical limit is being reached, or when not to engage at all. And people, who might act differently when face to face with their victim, find it easier to strike through a keyboard and the internet. Bullying can be conducted without an adequate sense of responsibility, and be inflicted then instantly forgotten.
People, and especially children and young adults, are faced with a much bigger and more complex environment in which to be a victim of bullying.
We believe bullies are not born but often 'created' as a product of their environment, life path, lack of guidance and/or from being bullied or abused themselves. We are not sympathetic to the actions of bullies, but we do understand bullies are often created out of abuse. And with this, comes a degree of empathy.
Image fresh off the set!
Paul James is a proud father of 2 young girls, an advocate for awareness on the dangers of bullying & cyberbullying, a proven supporter of women in the film industry & creative environments, and a screenwriter, film-maker & creative producer.
Personal statement: I have been passionate about this story and developing the script for over 12 years. In addition to experiencing personal abuse, I have witnessed the bullying and abuse of people close to me, with tragic and devastating results. With the introduction of my 2 beautiful daughters into this world, and the current state of society, I knew it was time to produce this film.
See 'Team Page' for the FULL CAST and Production Team members!
Support the Production and Watch the Film.
By donating and helping to produce this film, you will create a powerful and riveting story, while bringing awareness to the issues of bullying, cyberbullying & cyber-manipulation.
PLUS... you get AMAZING INCENTIVES FOR DONATING (BE SURE TO GRAB ONE)!
You can help promote the entire project, by following and sharing via our positive social media activity.
Then... when the production is complete, you can watch, share and spread the word about the film!
There are many inspirational aspects to the film. Paul James worked hard to secure filming permissions in his home town of Seal Beach, California (thanks Seal Beach City Office!) Paul loves his beachside community and scenes were finalized with Seal Beach in mind.
Paul also gave a nod to the high school he attended in England. The school uniforms are inspired by those worn by students during that time.
COVID will not affect our film & we have COVID trained/certified personnel.
During this difficult time, we know it is important to keep people safe. We ASSURE you, processes will be in place to ensure the safety of everyone on set. We have trained/certified personnel and will update all on the best ways to operate and interact safely.
FROM UNDER THE BRIDGE is a way for us to do something important for the world and we hope we can include you on our team!
We know how difficult this time can be and so we sincerely appreciate any and all contributions in all forms, whether you can pitch in financially or whether you share and follow our campaign.
To invest in our film (5 places available) or have your organization sponsor our film and be mentioned in the credits, please email us at [email protected] for more information.
Paul James, Connie Jo, cast and crew sincerely THANK YOU for your support. We could not make this film and spread the relative awareness regarding bullying and cyber-bullying without your help.
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Share this update!
About This Team
Writer, Director & Producer
Paul James
Paul James is a proud father of 2 young girls, an advocate for awareness on the dangers of bullying & cyber-bullying, a proven supporter of women in the film industry & creative environments, and a screenwriter, film-maker & creative producer.
Personal statement: I have been passionate about this story and developing the script for over 12 years. In addition to experiencing personal abuse, I have witnessed the bullying and abuse of people close to me, with tragic and devistating results. With the introduction of my 2 beautiful daughters into this world, and the current state of society, I knew it was time to produce this film.
Producer
Connie Jo Sechrist
Connie Jo (aka CJ), is an American Actress/Producer with considerable experience in Theatre, Television and Film. Connie is an exceptionally talented individual and brings a wide range of skills, experience and knowledge to the production. She is passionate, confident, driven and possesses a wonderfully magnetic personality. As a natural actor, she can evaluate and identify relative talent with precision and ease, while aligning the results with the specific needs of the project. This, harnessed with her portfolio of production strengths and positive character traits, makes Connie an essential and valuable asset. She has made an immediate impact and will undoubtedly elevate the overall quality of the film.
Co-Producer
Marti Eulberg
Marti Eulberg is a marketing and PR guru... and one of the most amazing people you will ever meet!
Director of Photography
Rachel Garcia-Dunn
Rachel Garcia-Dunn is the perfect individual for this critical role. With over 80 credits (under Rachel Wyn Dunn) and more than 20 years of industry experience, Rachel undoubtedly ensures the film's creative vision will be achieved. She is an incredibly talented artisan and brings a vast range of creative and technical skills and disciplines to the production. Additionally, with the sensitive synopsis of this true story centered around a teenage girl, and my personal desire to support and incorporate female talent into productions, Rachel's inclusion is especially important.
Cast
Piper Reese: 'Clare'
Luc Clopton: 'Kyle'
Sara Wolfkind: 'Stacey'
Rachel Alig: 'Julie'
Ryon Thomas: 'Tony'
Chris Cimperman: 'Steven'
Tezz Yancey: 'Chester'
Erick McAllister: 'Mickey'
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
This powerful story is inspired by real events.
FROM UNDER THE BRIDGE is a carefully tailored multi-faceted bullying and cyberbullying story. The captivating plot centers around real issues and features an array of characters approaching the story from contrasting angles. The script is powerful, while bringing awareness through creative storytelling.
Clare is a lonely and insecure high school girl, trying to navigate her way through the dark shadows of her depression, which is fueled by multiple factors.
She finds herself in a new chapter of her life, without her mother or any friends, while her bullies target her regularly and with increasing severity. Her loving father is overwhelmed, but trying desperately to bridge the void between them, which hides the secrets behind his daughter's state of mind.
But then suddenly from the darkness there is light. Clare is presented with the possibility of happiness, as she connects with a charming, attractive and seemingly caring teenage boy through social media. He listens to her, compliments and flatters her... and he is in college!
Surely, this chance encounter will change everything? And indeed, it surely does...
This tale is captivating, emotional and shocking. For some, it will be seriously relatable. But more than anything, we hope it leaves you pondering... what can YOU do to help?
PLEASE GRAB THOSE INCENTIVES - WE LOOK FORWARD TO GIVING THEM AWAY!
We Are Filming!
We have a complete cast, crew & production team/plan. We finalized all locations & permits and began filming at the end of August.
How Does This Campaign Help?
With his belief in the story, the awareness the story brings and the desire to help others, Paul James has given his savings to make this film. With this campaign, Paul is recouping some of the associated cost. Paul will not receive any money for his work on this film - he is working for free and fueled by the passion for the project.
The Plan for the Film?
Depending on the status of the pandemic, the intent is to premiere in local theaters. The film is supported by major studio executives, and will be submitted to high profile, high quality film festivals. It will also be considered for distribution via numerous streaming services and networks. And it will be made available through internet channels.
We live in a world where hate and bullying continues to exist and grow.
With social media, bullying has become easier and far more unpredictable. Bullying is no longer a problem primarily existing between people who know one another. Cyberbullying has introduced abuse between strangers, locally and across the world.
Operating from a distance and hidden in the shadows of anonymity, the cyberbully cannot see the current state of the victim OR the impact and effect of their actions. They cannot gauge when a critical limit is being reached, or when not to engage at all. And people, who might act differently when face to face with their victim, find it easier to strike through a keyboard and the internet. Bullying can be conducted without an adequate sense of responsibility, and be inflicted then instantly forgotten.
People, and especially children and young adults, are faced with a much bigger and more complex environment in which to be a victim of bullying.
We believe bullies are not born but often 'created' as a product of their environment, life path, lack of guidance and/or from being bullied or abused themselves. We are not sympathetic to the actions of bullies, but we do understand bullies are often created out of abuse. And with this, comes a degree of empathy.
Image fresh off the set!
Paul James is a proud father of 2 young girls, an advocate for awareness on the dangers of bullying & cyberbullying, a proven supporter of women in the film industry & creative environments, and a screenwriter, film-maker & creative producer.
Personal statement: I have been passionate about this story and developing the script for over 12 years. In addition to experiencing personal abuse, I have witnessed the bullying and abuse of people close to me, with tragic and devastating results. With the introduction of my 2 beautiful daughters into this world, and the current state of society, I knew it was time to produce this film.
See 'Team Page' for the FULL CAST and Production Team members!
Support the Production and Watch the Film.
By donating and helping to produce this film, you will create a powerful and riveting story, while bringing awareness to the issues of bullying, cyberbullying & cyber-manipulation.
PLUS... you get AMAZING INCENTIVES FOR DONATING (BE SURE TO GRAB ONE)!
You can help promote the entire project, by following and sharing via our positive social media activity.
Then... when the production is complete, you can watch, share and spread the word about the film!
There are many inspirational aspects to the film. Paul James worked hard to secure filming permissions in his home town of Seal Beach, California (thanks Seal Beach City Office!) Paul loves his beachside community and scenes were finalized with Seal Beach in mind.
Paul also gave a nod to the high school he attended in England. The school uniforms are inspired by those worn by students during that time.
COVID will not affect our film & we have COVID trained/certified personnel.
During this difficult time, we know it is important to keep people safe. We ASSURE you, processes will be in place to ensure the safety of everyone on set. We have trained/certified personnel and will update all on the best ways to operate and interact safely.
FROM UNDER THE BRIDGE is a way for us to do something important for the world and we hope we can include you on our team!
We know how difficult this time can be and so we sincerely appreciate any and all contributions in all forms, whether you can pitch in financially or whether you share and follow our campaign.
To invest in our film (5 places available) or have your organization sponsor our film and be mentioned in the credits, please email us at [email protected] for more information.
Paul James, Connie Jo, cast and crew sincerely THANK YOU for your support. We could not make this film and spread the relative awareness regarding bullying and cyber-bullying without your help.
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Share this update!
About This Team
Writer, Director & Producer
Paul James
Paul James is a proud father of 2 young girls, an advocate for awareness on the dangers of bullying & cyber-bullying, a proven supporter of women in the film industry & creative environments, and a screenwriter, film-maker & creative producer.
Personal statement: I have been passionate about this story and developing the script for over 12 years. In addition to experiencing personal abuse, I have witnessed the bullying and abuse of people close to me, with tragic and devistating results. With the introduction of my 2 beautiful daughters into this world, and the current state of society, I knew it was time to produce this film.
Producer
Connie Jo Sechrist
Connie Jo (aka CJ), is an American Actress/Producer with considerable experience in Theatre, Television and Film. Connie is an exceptionally talented individual and brings a wide range of skills, experience and knowledge to the production. She is passionate, confident, driven and possesses a wonderfully magnetic personality. As a natural actor, she can evaluate and identify relative talent with precision and ease, while aligning the results with the specific needs of the project. This, harnessed with her portfolio of production strengths and positive character traits, makes Connie an essential and valuable asset. She has made an immediate impact and will undoubtedly elevate the overall quality of the film.
Co-Producer
Marti Eulberg
Marti Eulberg is a marketing and PR guru... and one of the most amazing people you will ever meet!
Director of Photography
Rachel Garcia-Dunn
Rachel Garcia-Dunn is the perfect individual for this critical role. With over 80 credits (under Rachel Wyn Dunn) and more than 20 years of industry experience, Rachel undoubtedly ensures the film's creative vision will be achieved. She is an incredibly talented artisan and brings a vast range of creative and technical skills and disciplines to the production. Additionally, with the sensitive synopsis of this true story centered around a teenage girl, and my personal desire to support and incorporate female talent into productions, Rachel's inclusion is especially important.
Cast
Piper Reese: 'Clare'
Luc Clopton: 'Kyle'
Sara Wolfkind: 'Stacey'
Rachel Alig: 'Julie'
Ryon Thomas: 'Tony'
Chris Cimperman: 'Steven'
Tezz Yancey: 'Chester'
Erick McAllister: 'Mickey'