INTERNET BOY
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Thriller, LGBTQ
After ghosting countless first dates, a young gay man is confronted by his darkest fear. INTERNET BOY is an unnerving psychological thriller that explores the familiar anxieties of modern dating with a chilling, voyeuristic twist.
INTERNET BOY
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Thriller, LGBTQ
1 Campaigns | California, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $30,115 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
78 supporters | followers
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After ghosting countless first dates, a young gay man is confronted by his darkest fear. INTERNET BOY is an unnerving psychological thriller that explores the familiar anxieties of modern dating with a chilling, voyeuristic twist.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
INTERNET BOY follows Bryce, (Ked Merwin) a young man haunted by his fear of the outside world. As he moves beyond the comfort of a screen, the line between fantasy and reality begins to blur. Mysterious, intimate, and raw — our story explores the darker sides of how we see ourselves... and how we want others to see us.
Watch the
PROOF OF CONCEPT TRAILER
First Look
CASTING ANNOUNCEMENT
Ked Merwin (CBS's Elsbeth) stars as Bryce.
Max Emerson (How I Met Your Mother) stars as Jared.
"With a keen sense of atmosphere and thematic urgency, this is a
chilling tale surrounding a universal base fear... while also being a cautionary tale
about how technology can divide us if we let it.
-WeScreenplay Reader on Internet Boy
Internet Boy is a deeply personal project that explores the complex, often daunting world of connection and intimacy. It unpacks the emotional and psychological aspects of dating, with gay identity woven into the narrative without being a source of conflict. Instead, the film captures the nuanced layers of queer life through a thriller lens, portraying authentic experiences while steering clear of genre tropes.
Our film's atmospheric visual approach will highlight Bryce’s sense of isolation, while rhythmic cuts and quieter moments in the editing will blur boundaries between fantasy and reality.
With a haunting electronic score inspired by composers like Mac Quayle (Mr. Robot) and Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross (The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo), the film's soundscape will amplify Bryce's emotional journey, heightening suspense while underscoring moments of vulnerability.
We need YOUR support to greenlight this project:
Hitting 80% of our fundraising goal is critical to making INTERNET BOY a reality. Every dollar counts, and your support—whether it’s donating or sharing our campaign—can make this film possible. Your contribution will:
- Compensate and feed our talented actors and hardworking crew
- Secure top-tier camera and lighting gear
- Lock-in locations such as a WeHo Nightclub and a Hollywood Hills Restaurant
- Ensure post-production (editing, sound design, color grading) meets industry standards
We've poured everything into this project, pushing creative boundaries while defying genre expectations to create something truly unique. But to fully realize this film with the impact and quality it deserves, we need your support.
Pre-Production | March 2025
Locking locations, assembling crew, and setting schedules.
Production | April 2025
Principal Photography begins in Los Angeles.
Post-Production | May / June 2025
Scoring, mixing, color grading, and picture lock.
Festival Submissions | Fall 2025
Targeting top festivals, including SXSW, Sundance, Tribeca, Newfest and more.
Independent films like Internet Boy are only made possible by supporters like you. By following our campaign and donating, you’ll be the first to hear about key milestones — exciting production updates, the wrap of our shoot, and festival announcements. We can't wait to share this journey with you, and we’re so grateful to have you along for the ride. - JD
Follow us
Contact
Disclaimer: The images and videos displayed are not associated with Internet Boy and are used for reference purposes only.
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Locations
Costs $6,320
Securing dynamic settings, including a vibrant WeHo nightclub and an elegant Hollywood Hills restaurant.
Post Production
Costs $5,900
Top-tier editing, immersive sound design, and expert color grading to meet industry standards.
Catered Meals
Costs $1,200
Providing nourishing craft services ensures our crew stays energized, focused, and ready to give their best on every shoot day.
Production
Costs $17,530
Every aspect of production, from the camera crew to the art department, works together to make this film visually and emotionally authentic.
Camera Package
Costs $2,050
Equipping the production with a top-tier camera and lens package.
G&E Package
Costs $2,000
Providing essential lighting and grip equipment to shape the mood and atmosphere of the film.
Share this update!
About This Team
Joseph Demaria | Writer-Director, Producer
Joseph is a Los Angeles-based filmmaker crafting gritty, genre-driven stories that blend cathartic escapism with emotionally rich narratives. His work delves into the anxieties of human connection, exploring paranoia and self-discovery through a psychological lens.
With a background in both narrative and documentary filmmaking, Joseph's films have been featured at acclaimed festivals such as the Santa Barbara International Film Festival and LA Shorts International Film Fest.
He's currently developing his debut feature, a psychological horror-thriller, while creating thought-provoking stories that challenge and captivate audiences.
Marc Underhill | Producer
Marc is a producer and co-founder of Thundercane Productions who grew up on the east coast competing in national creative problem-solving competitions. That early training guides his approach to overcoming obstacles from a project's development through delivery. With over eight years in independent film, Marc has produced more than a dozen projects, including sci-fi feature film Auggie (2019), starring Richard Kind.
His recent credits include the 2024 short I Live in Your House, which Vulture.com called “equal parts horrifying and hilarious”. Joining the Internet Boy team continues his mission of collaborating with people who share his zest for creative possibility.
Andrew Dahreddine | Casting Director
Andrew Dahreddine is a casting professional and actor based between Los Angeles and New York. He is currently casting Lauren Minnerath's debut feature film, CLARE, which has been supported by Sundance, Tribeca, and SXSW.
Andrew recently worked with Barden/Schnee Casting on television shows for Apple TV+ (the breakout series, PALM ROYALE), Paramount+ (SCHOOL SPIRITS), and ABC (ALASKA DAILY), as well as many films including EZRA (Robert De Niro, Bobby Cannavale, Rose Byrne).
Additional selected casting credits include: the FX limited series, THE PATIENT (starring Steve Carell & Domhnall Gleeson); Aaron Sorkin’s Oscar-nominated Netflix feature film, THE TRIAL OF THE CHICAGO 7; and the first season of the Emmy-nominated Hulu series, RAMY.
Andrew has also been the casting director for many short films that have competed at festivals including SXSW, Seattle International, Palm Springs ShortFest, and many others.
For more information: www.andrewdahreddine.com
Liberty Thomas | Producer
Liberty is a Los Angeles-based Producer who grew up in Kansas City, MO, and graduated from Columbia College Chicago with a BA in Film and Television and a minor in Arts Management. In 2023, she moved to Los Angeles and interned at Campfire Studios where she stepped foot into the Los Angeles production scene. Liberty has continued to grow her production knowledge and skills by working on various projects including AT&T and Verizon commercials, Mastermind: To Think Like a Killer, The Morning Show, and more.
She has spent the past three years producing independent short films both in Los Angeles and Chicago. Recently, she helped produce Red Rectangle (2023), and worked alongside the emerging production company Cinema Inclusion. Liberty is excited to join Internet Boy’s team as she can’t wait to see the story come to life.
Mateo Nikolav | Associate Producer
Mateo is an Ecuadorian-American writer, director, and producer based in Los Angeles, California with a passion for crafting stories about queer and immigrant experiences.
In 2023, he was selected as a Television Academy Foundation Fellow, where he joined Bunim-Murray Productions' development team. Mateo's work has been shaped by his unique background, having lived across multiple countries, and his commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices.
He also launched Mindo Laboratories, a production company dedicated to telling stories that celebrate LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC characters. Mindo Labs' films, including MASC, Algun Día, and The Truth in Your Eyes, have earned recognition at prestigious festivals like the Chelsea Film Festival, the Hollywood Independent Reel Awards, and the Paris International Film Awards.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
INTERNET BOY follows Bryce, (Ked Merwin) a young man haunted by his fear of the outside world. As he moves beyond the comfort of a screen, the line between fantasy and reality begins to blur. Mysterious, intimate, and raw — our story explores the darker sides of how we see ourselves... and how we want others to see us.
Watch the
PROOF OF CONCEPT TRAILER
First Look
CASTING ANNOUNCEMENT
Ked Merwin (CBS's Elsbeth) stars as Bryce.
Max Emerson (How I Met Your Mother) stars as Jared.
"With a keen sense of atmosphere and thematic urgency, this is a
chilling tale surrounding a universal base fear... while also being a cautionary tale
about how technology can divide us if we let it.
-WeScreenplay Reader on Internet Boy
Internet Boy is a deeply personal project that explores the complex, often daunting world of connection and intimacy. It unpacks the emotional and psychological aspects of dating, with gay identity woven into the narrative without being a source of conflict. Instead, the film captures the nuanced layers of queer life through a thriller lens, portraying authentic experiences while steering clear of genre tropes.
Our film's atmospheric visual approach will highlight Bryce’s sense of isolation, while rhythmic cuts and quieter moments in the editing will blur boundaries between fantasy and reality.
With a haunting electronic score inspired by composers like Mac Quayle (Mr. Robot) and Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross (The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo), the film's soundscape will amplify Bryce's emotional journey, heightening suspense while underscoring moments of vulnerability.
We need YOUR support to greenlight this project:
Hitting 80% of our fundraising goal is critical to making INTERNET BOY a reality. Every dollar counts, and your support—whether it’s donating or sharing our campaign—can make this film possible. Your contribution will:
- Compensate and feed our talented actors and hardworking crew
- Secure top-tier camera and lighting gear
- Lock-in locations such as a WeHo Nightclub and a Hollywood Hills Restaurant
- Ensure post-production (editing, sound design, color grading) meets industry standards
We've poured everything into this project, pushing creative boundaries while defying genre expectations to create something truly unique. But to fully realize this film with the impact and quality it deserves, we need your support.
Pre-Production | March 2025
Locking locations, assembling crew, and setting schedules.
Production | April 2025
Principal Photography begins in Los Angeles.
Post-Production | May / June 2025
Scoring, mixing, color grading, and picture lock.
Festival Submissions | Fall 2025
Targeting top festivals, including SXSW, Sundance, Tribeca, Newfest and more.
Independent films like Internet Boy are only made possible by supporters like you. By following our campaign and donating, you’ll be the first to hear about key milestones — exciting production updates, the wrap of our shoot, and festival announcements. We can't wait to share this journey with you, and we’re so grateful to have you along for the ride. - JD
Follow us
Contact
Disclaimer: The images and videos displayed are not associated with Internet Boy and are used for reference purposes only.
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Locations
Costs $6,320
Securing dynamic settings, including a vibrant WeHo nightclub and an elegant Hollywood Hills restaurant.
Post Production
Costs $5,900
Top-tier editing, immersive sound design, and expert color grading to meet industry standards.
Catered Meals
Costs $1,200
Providing nourishing craft services ensures our crew stays energized, focused, and ready to give their best on every shoot day.
Production
Costs $17,530
Every aspect of production, from the camera crew to the art department, works together to make this film visually and emotionally authentic.
Camera Package
Costs $2,050
Equipping the production with a top-tier camera and lens package.
G&E Package
Costs $2,000
Providing essential lighting and grip equipment to shape the mood and atmosphere of the film.
Share this update!
About This Team
Joseph Demaria | Writer-Director, Producer
Joseph is a Los Angeles-based filmmaker crafting gritty, genre-driven stories that blend cathartic escapism with emotionally rich narratives. His work delves into the anxieties of human connection, exploring paranoia and self-discovery through a psychological lens.
With a background in both narrative and documentary filmmaking, Joseph's films have been featured at acclaimed festivals such as the Santa Barbara International Film Festival and LA Shorts International Film Fest.
He's currently developing his debut feature, a psychological horror-thriller, while creating thought-provoking stories that challenge and captivate audiences.
Marc Underhill | Producer
Marc is a producer and co-founder of Thundercane Productions who grew up on the east coast competing in national creative problem-solving competitions. That early training guides his approach to overcoming obstacles from a project's development through delivery. With over eight years in independent film, Marc has produced more than a dozen projects, including sci-fi feature film Auggie (2019), starring Richard Kind.
His recent credits include the 2024 short I Live in Your House, which Vulture.com called “equal parts horrifying and hilarious”. Joining the Internet Boy team continues his mission of collaborating with people who share his zest for creative possibility.
Andrew Dahreddine | Casting Director
Andrew Dahreddine is a casting professional and actor based between Los Angeles and New York. He is currently casting Lauren Minnerath's debut feature film, CLARE, which has been supported by Sundance, Tribeca, and SXSW.
Andrew recently worked with Barden/Schnee Casting on television shows for Apple TV+ (the breakout series, PALM ROYALE), Paramount+ (SCHOOL SPIRITS), and ABC (ALASKA DAILY), as well as many films including EZRA (Robert De Niro, Bobby Cannavale, Rose Byrne).
Additional selected casting credits include: the FX limited series, THE PATIENT (starring Steve Carell & Domhnall Gleeson); Aaron Sorkin’s Oscar-nominated Netflix feature film, THE TRIAL OF THE CHICAGO 7; and the first season of the Emmy-nominated Hulu series, RAMY.
Andrew has also been the casting director for many short films that have competed at festivals including SXSW, Seattle International, Palm Springs ShortFest, and many others.
For more information: www.andrewdahreddine.com
Liberty Thomas | Producer
Liberty is a Los Angeles-based Producer who grew up in Kansas City, MO, and graduated from Columbia College Chicago with a BA in Film and Television and a minor in Arts Management. In 2023, she moved to Los Angeles and interned at Campfire Studios where she stepped foot into the Los Angeles production scene. Liberty has continued to grow her production knowledge and skills by working on various projects including AT&T and Verizon commercials, Mastermind: To Think Like a Killer, The Morning Show, and more.
She has spent the past three years producing independent short films both in Los Angeles and Chicago. Recently, she helped produce Red Rectangle (2023), and worked alongside the emerging production company Cinema Inclusion. Liberty is excited to join Internet Boy’s team as she can’t wait to see the story come to life.
Mateo Nikolav | Associate Producer
Mateo is an Ecuadorian-American writer, director, and producer based in Los Angeles, California with a passion for crafting stories about queer and immigrant experiences.
In 2023, he was selected as a Television Academy Foundation Fellow, where he joined Bunim-Murray Productions' development team. Mateo's work has been shaped by his unique background, having lived across multiple countries, and his commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices.
He also launched Mindo Laboratories, a production company dedicated to telling stories that celebrate LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC characters. Mindo Labs' films, including MASC, Algun Día, and The Truth in Your Eyes, have earned recognition at prestigious festivals like the Chelsea Film Festival, the Hollywood Independent Reel Awards, and the Paris International Film Awards.