Hot Chocolate
Toronto, Canada | Film Short
Comedy, Drama
A “meet the family” moment turns tense when the real reason for the day’s gathering is revealed. Our story explores how to check out of a sticky situation through the eyes of Margot, the unwilling guest speaker at a stranger’s deathbed. Because nothing’s worse than missing your exit cue.
43 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
C$12,030
Goal: C$38,700 for production
A “meet the family” moment turns tense when the real reason for the day’s gathering is revealed. Our story explores how to check out of a sticky situation through the eyes of Margot, the unwilling guest speaker at a stranger’s deathbed. Because nothing’s worse than missing your exit cue.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
A woman meets her boyfriend's family for the last time.
Margot and her boyfriend Paul are on their way to a wedding when he decides to stop by his aunt and uncle’s house for a visit. Feeling nervous about meeting his family for the first time, Margot looks to Paul for comfort, but finds none.
The eccentric family buzzes around the kitchen, plating sandwiches and warming hot chocolate on the stove. They seem pleased to meet Paul’s latest fling. Margot is welcomed into the sun room to meet Uncle Elijah - who just so happens to be dying that afternoon.
Elijah will drink poisoned hot chocolate, assisted by a nurse and surrounded by all of the most important people in his life - and that now includes Margot - who is perfectly dressed for a wedding but potentially overdressed for a funeral.
Sometimes what actually happens is more bizarre than anything that could have been imagined.
"For a long time we've chatted about a story that happened to one of us, an unimaginable real life scenario so wild and entertaining, it would've made the perfect short film. We just had to try and make it, right?!
This dark comedy will come from the personalities of our characters and the unimaginable scenario our protagonist finds herself in. the The drama or gravitas, from the family watching their loved one fearlessly depart, and the reminder that our time here is short - so why not dare to spend it on your terms.
While it may seem that the purpose of all of this is to explore a story about death, the heart of the film is actually about a couple who shouldn’t be together and the reckoning they both face as a result of this experience.
We love making weird and wonderful content together, Hot Chocolate will be something fresh and exciting and we'd love to show you how we want to make it happen!"
Elyse + Michael
Why This Story?
Because..... it's all true. It actually happened!
A dark comedy, the tone of Hot Chocolate will by played quite dry, allowing for the personalities of our characters and the absurdity of the situation they find themselves in, to shine through. Tragedy and comedy are often one and the same. We aim to throw our audience into the uncomfortable territory of, “is it okay that I’m laughing at this…?”, while at the same time honoring the profundity of death and the existential questions it inspires.
Meet the Team!
Our story is influenced by The Farewell; a ‘dramedy’ grounded in real, natural performances. Also strong references include the high octane energy between family members in The Bear: Fishes (se02 e06), where tension is pushed to boiling point, and Knives Out for its fun, neurotic and narcissistic characters.
Budget: Where will your support go?
.png)
We are looking to raise $38,700 to get our film rolling. The funds will go towards Equipment, Cast and Crew, Travel and Accommodation, Catering and Craft, and Post-Production.
Schedule: What is the timeframe for production?
We plan to roll cameras during April 2025, aiming for a summer completion.
This is your chance to support this talented team!! Any contributions will be greatly appreciated.
Thank you for reading.
Disclaimer: The images used are not the property of the Hot Chocolate project and are used only for inspiration.
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Equipment
Costs C$10,950
Lights, Camera, Action! Turns out you need all 3 (& a lot more). I mean, just think of how lost & confused actors would be without their cue
Travel & Accommodations
Costs C$5,140
It's on location & Michael insists on the Four Seasons, we need to fly him to set via helicopter (*currently accepting helicopter donations)
Craft & Catering
Costs C$3,210
Having snacks & meals to keep cast & crew satiated is vital in every production. Coz nobody likes a hangry Grip. Especially a hangry grip.
Post Production
Costs C$6,570
Here's where the pro's clean up our mess. From editing to grade to sound design - all of these necessary elements can make or break a film.
Share this update!
About This Team
ELYSE LEVESQUE - WRITER / DIRECTOR / EXEC PRODUCER
Born and raised in Canada, Elyse Levesque began acting at an early age after being cast in the children’s TV series The Incredible Story Studio. After graduating, Elyse modeled globally before moving to Vancouver where she quickly landed a leading role on MGM/Syfy series Stargate Universe, opposite Robert Carlyle.
After moving to Los Angeles, Elyse landed a role in CW’s The Originals, followed by CW pilot Containment, directed by Emmy Award Winner David Nutter. She played the starring role of Daisy Channing on CBC/WGN America’s series Shoot The Messenger, followed by BBC America’s Award-Winning Orphan Black. Recent credits include The Big Ugly, opposite Ron Perlman and Malcolm McDowell, as well as Fox Searchlight's Ready or Not, alongside Andie Macdowell and Samara Weaving. Elyse can be seen in the upcoming MGM+/Amazon Series Earth Abides, by showrunner Todd Komarnicki (Sully).
Elyse also produced and starred in the short film Fruitcake, which premiered at the Vail Film Festival in 2015. She and Michael just finished their first project together, Hate Served Cold, which was shot in fall 2023.
MICHAEL DRISCOLL - DIRECTOR / EXEC PRODUCER
London born and Award-winning Writer/Director Michael Driscoll started his career in the Art Department on films including Casino Royale and Batman Begins, before assisting directors such as Ridley Scott, Jonas Åkerlund and Joe Carnahan. His directing career began at RSA Films in London.
Michael’s 2nd Unit Directing credits include 26 episodes of Netflix Original / Canal+ TV drama series Borgia, filmed across Italy, Czech Republic, Croatia and Slovenia. Michael also worked on season 1 of HBO/Cinemax/RTL/M6’s Transporter: The Series across Canada, France and Germany, directing 2nd Unit stunt sequences plus producing its EPK.
In 2018 Michael was selected for the BAFTA Newcomers in LA program. His first short film Two Black Coffees received international acclaim during its festival run in 2018. His work was described by Buzzfeed and Thrive Global as “[a] command of tone and character to create a distinguished... highly visual style” and “edgy and dynamic.” Michael collaborated with Elyse for his most recent short film Hate Served Cold, which is currently in post-production.
LEAH GAUTHIER - EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
Leah Gauthier is a Vancouver based Writer-Producer. Co-Creator, Executive Producer and Writer on JANN, Bell’s half-hour comedy starring Jann Arden, ranked the #1 comedy in Canada. Leah has been nominated for 5 Canadian Screen Awards.
She has also worked as a Producer of Factual and Reality content, serving as Talent Producer and Assistant Director for the Real Housewives of Vancouver, Casting Producer on HGTV’s Worst to First and YTV’s Tricked, and as Story and Casting Producer on First Dates Canada.
ANDREW BARNSLEY - EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
Andrew Barnsley is a Canadian film and television Producer known for the critically acclaimed series Schitt’s Creek. As Executive Producer, he has garnered both Emmy and Golden Globe wins, as well as six Canadian Screen Awards. Other credits include the Canadian comedy series JANN, as well as the CBC hit Son Of A Critch. Andrew most recently became the President of the Toronto Film School.
PRODUCERS
Formed during their time at Toronto Film School, the co-founders of MARKD Productions, M-att, A-lex, R-obert, K-evin, D-iego, immediately set forth on a commitment to quality and integrity in the marketplace.
Since graduating from Toronto Film School, they have developed a commercial portfolio with companies like Dreamwinds Equine Assisted Learning, National Training Centres and Gamblers Anonymous. One of their projects (PSA) has garnered global attention through the GA organization.
MARKD Productions has produced multiple short films including four dramas and three short documentaries - which have seen success in 50+ film festivals around the world. The two most recent films - The Package and The DNA of Love - have multiple-nominations in a Canadian Screen Awards qualifying festival.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
A woman meets her boyfriend's family for the last time.
Margot and her boyfriend Paul are on their way to a wedding when he decides to stop by his aunt and uncle’s house for a visit. Feeling nervous about meeting his family for the first time, Margot looks to Paul for comfort, but finds none.
The eccentric family buzzes around the kitchen, plating sandwiches and warming hot chocolate on the stove. They seem pleased to meet Paul’s latest fling. Margot is welcomed into the sun room to meet Uncle Elijah - who just so happens to be dying that afternoon.
Elijah will drink poisoned hot chocolate, assisted by a nurse and surrounded by all of the most important people in his life - and that now includes Margot - who is perfectly dressed for a wedding but potentially overdressed for a funeral.
Sometimes what actually happens is more bizarre than anything that could have been imagined.
"For a long time we've chatted about a story that happened to one of us, an unimaginable real life scenario so wild and entertaining, it would've made the perfect short film. We just had to try and make it, right?!
This dark comedy will come from the personalities of our characters and the unimaginable scenario our protagonist finds herself in. the The drama or gravitas, from the family watching their loved one fearlessly depart, and the reminder that our time here is short - so why not dare to spend it on your terms.
While it may seem that the purpose of all of this is to explore a story about death, the heart of the film is actually about a couple who shouldn’t be together and the reckoning they both face as a result of this experience.
We love making weird and wonderful content together, Hot Chocolate will be something fresh and exciting and we'd love to show you how we want to make it happen!"
Elyse + Michael
Why This Story?
Because..... it's all true. It actually happened!
A dark comedy, the tone of Hot Chocolate will by played quite dry, allowing for the personalities of our characters and the absurdity of the situation they find themselves in, to shine through. Tragedy and comedy are often one and the same. We aim to throw our audience into the uncomfortable territory of, “is it okay that I’m laughing at this…?”, while at the same time honoring the profundity of death and the existential questions it inspires.
Meet the Team!
Our story is influenced by The Farewell; a ‘dramedy’ grounded in real, natural performances. Also strong references include the high octane energy between family members in The Bear: Fishes (se02 e06), where tension is pushed to boiling point, and Knives Out for its fun, neurotic and narcissistic characters.
Budget: Where will your support go?
We are looking to raise $38,700 to get our film rolling. The funds will go towards Equipment, Cast and Crew, Travel and Accommodation, Catering and Craft, and Post-Production.
Schedule: What is the timeframe for production?
We plan to roll cameras during April 2025, aiming for a summer completion.
This is your chance to support this talented team!! Any contributions will be greatly appreciated.
Thank you for reading.
Disclaimer: The images used are not the property of the Hot Chocolate project and are used only for inspiration.
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Equipment
Costs C$10,950
Lights, Camera, Action! Turns out you need all 3 (& a lot more). I mean, just think of how lost & confused actors would be without their cue
Travel & Accommodations
Costs C$5,140
It's on location & Michael insists on the Four Seasons, we need to fly him to set via helicopter (*currently accepting helicopter donations)
Craft & Catering
Costs C$3,210
Having snacks & meals to keep cast & crew satiated is vital in every production. Coz nobody likes a hangry Grip. Especially a hangry grip.
Post Production
Costs C$6,570
Here's where the pro's clean up our mess. From editing to grade to sound design - all of these necessary elements can make or break a film.
Share this update!
About This Team
ELYSE LEVESQUE - WRITER / DIRECTOR / EXEC PRODUCER
Born and raised in Canada, Elyse Levesque began acting at an early age after being cast in the children’s TV series The Incredible Story Studio. After graduating, Elyse modeled globally before moving to Vancouver where she quickly landed a leading role on MGM/Syfy series Stargate Universe, opposite Robert Carlyle.
After moving to Los Angeles, Elyse landed a role in CW’s The Originals, followed by CW pilot Containment, directed by Emmy Award Winner David Nutter. She played the starring role of Daisy Channing on CBC/WGN America’s series Shoot The Messenger, followed by BBC America’s Award-Winning Orphan Black. Recent credits include The Big Ugly, opposite Ron Perlman and Malcolm McDowell, as well as Fox Searchlight's Ready or Not, alongside Andie Macdowell and Samara Weaving. Elyse can be seen in the upcoming MGM+/Amazon Series Earth Abides, by showrunner Todd Komarnicki (Sully).
Elyse also produced and starred in the short film Fruitcake, which premiered at the Vail Film Festival in 2015. She and Michael just finished their first project together, Hate Served Cold, which was shot in fall 2023.
MICHAEL DRISCOLL - DIRECTOR / EXEC PRODUCER
London born and Award-winning Writer/Director Michael Driscoll started his career in the Art Department on films including Casino Royale and Batman Begins, before assisting directors such as Ridley Scott, Jonas Åkerlund and Joe Carnahan. His directing career began at RSA Films in London.
Michael’s 2nd Unit Directing credits include 26 episodes of Netflix Original / Canal+ TV drama series Borgia, filmed across Italy, Czech Republic, Croatia and Slovenia. Michael also worked on season 1 of HBO/Cinemax/RTL/M6’s Transporter: The Series across Canada, France and Germany, directing 2nd Unit stunt sequences plus producing its EPK.
In 2018 Michael was selected for the BAFTA Newcomers in LA program. His first short film Two Black Coffees received international acclaim during its festival run in 2018. His work was described by Buzzfeed and Thrive Global as “[a] command of tone and character to create a distinguished... highly visual style” and “edgy and dynamic.” Michael collaborated with Elyse for his most recent short film Hate Served Cold, which is currently in post-production.
LEAH GAUTHIER - EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
Leah Gauthier is a Vancouver based Writer-Producer. Co-Creator, Executive Producer and Writer on JANN, Bell’s half-hour comedy starring Jann Arden, ranked the #1 comedy in Canada. Leah has been nominated for 5 Canadian Screen Awards.
She has also worked as a Producer of Factual and Reality content, serving as Talent Producer and Assistant Director for the Real Housewives of Vancouver, Casting Producer on HGTV’s Worst to First and YTV’s Tricked, and as Story and Casting Producer on First Dates Canada.
ANDREW BARNSLEY - EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
Andrew Barnsley is a Canadian film and television Producer known for the critically acclaimed series Schitt’s Creek. As Executive Producer, he has garnered both Emmy and Golden Globe wins, as well as six Canadian Screen Awards. Other credits include the Canadian comedy series JANN, as well as the CBC hit Son Of A Critch. Andrew most recently became the President of the Toronto Film School.
PRODUCERS
Formed during their time at Toronto Film School, the co-founders of MARKD Productions, M-att, A-lex, R-obert, K-evin, D-iego, immediately set forth on a commitment to quality and integrity in the marketplace.
Since graduating from Toronto Film School, they have developed a commercial portfolio with companies like Dreamwinds Equine Assisted Learning, National Training Centres and Gamblers Anonymous. One of their projects (PSA) has garnered global attention through the GA organization.
MARKD Productions has produced multiple short films including four dramas and three short documentaries - which have seen success in 50+ film festivals around the world. The two most recent films - The Package and The DNA of Love - have multiple-nominations in a Canadian Screen Awards qualifying festival.