Lifesaver
Atlanta, Georgia | Film Short
Drama
After hearing “boys will be boys” one too many times, a strong-willed 6 year old girl makes a dangerous discovery and decides to take matters into her own hands with a schoolyard bully.
Lifesaver
Atlanta, Georgia | Film Short
Drama
2 Campaigns | New York, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $22,275 for pre-production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
98 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
After hearing “boys will be boys” one too many times, a strong-willed 6 year old girl makes a dangerous discovery and decides to take matters into her own hands with a schoolyard bully.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
A young girl, her mother, and her grandmother, each face their own variation of sexism and harassment. Feeling trapped, they forge their way through life imperfectly, doing the best they can. When the boys at school are repeatedly let off the hook for bullying Daisy and her friends during recess, she grows frustrated and angry, feeling abandoned by the adults in charge... including her mother and grandmother. Faced with returning to school, Daisy decides to take matters in her own hands, after discovering the one thing that might make them leave her alone.
Please PLEDGE, FOLLOW, and SHARE to help us make our film!
Any contribution will make a difference!
Your support is GREATLY APPRECIATED!
That's me at the playground when I was around four, full of spirit and devil-may-care.
I've always loved playgrounds and I especially loved recess in elementary school. My friends and I galloped around like horses, pretended we were a family of otters, and played kickball with glee. But my favorite part of recess was soaring to the sky on the swings with my friends, laughing and seeing how high we could go before jumping off.
Recess was freedom from all the other stuff in my life that was hard. But recess also had a down side. There were some boys who often made it miserable.
They teased us and ruined our games.
We tried to get them to leave us alone.
We tried to include them.
We asked the teachers for help.
No matter what we did, they didn't stop.
Then one of the boys pulled my pants down.
I was so shocked and embarrassed. Without even thinking, I swung at him, hitting him in the face. Not the smartest move, I know, but I was so desperate and fed up. I didn't know what to do. And, of course, it didn't help. I was barred from joining Brownies that year and the boys' bullying continued.
I'm pretty sure he doesn't even remember the incident. But decades later, I do.
And it planted the seeds for Lifesaver.
Characters
IMAGINE... a young, no-nonsense Dakota Fanning type...
IMAGINE... a feisty, determined Heather Graham type...
IMAGINE... a loving, rough around the edges Jessica Lange type...
Bullying impacts everyone, not just the victim.
Once I became a parent to boys and girls, it made me realize how the system failed both me... and those boys. My teachers--and later, most of my children's teachers--normalized the bullying instead of addressing its root causes or teaching empathy and conflict resolution.
All studies show that bystanders play a crucial role in interrupting this cycle of violence.
The fighting spirit of these women is the lead character.
Think... The Maid, Ginny & Georgia, Grandma, Hounddog
Picture images of the Deep South left behind… a subtle narrative of childhood solitude, helplessness and determination… the struggle of girlhood and womanhood…
A nuanced, honest and intimately told story about a life that exists so often, but is often overlooked or from which one turns a blind eye… a misguided sense of protection perpetuated by the gun lobby… micro aggressions that men create and women tolerate…
Danger lurks underneath unashamedly flawed people with their own dreams and regrets… the complexities of three intertwined generations, their needs, disappointments and love… real, resonant and haunting…
a testament to the grit and determination of women of all ages… trains its lens on the vicious cycle of poverty and abuse… a subtlety and richness of characters…
In the world of filmmaking, $19,500 is a micro budget. Our dedicated Line Producer embraced the challenge of bringing our film to life within these financial constraints.
Our aim is to allocate the bare minimum necessary to produce a quality film while compensating the cast & crew. We've been fortunate that the script has resonated with many, and they share our passion and vision. However, there's more to do…
• If we reach $22,000 - we'll cover film festival application fees, promotional expenses, and distribution costs. This will enable us to extend the reach of our film and share its message with a broader audience.
•. With $25,000 - we’ll be able to compensate our writer/director.
•. With $30,000 - we'll have the means to cover festival travel expenses, allowing our team to support our film in person!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Crew & Gear
Costs $8,600
Can't make a film without these talented people and equipment!
Production Design
Costs $2,000
Our designers create an immersive world, meticulously crafting every detail to bring the story to life!
Talent
Costs $2,000
Even we know this is a steal for great talent, but they understand this is micro-budget indie filmmaking!
Craft Services
Costs $800
If you've ever been on a film set you know how hard these people work...we've got to feed them so their gas tanks doesn't run empty!
HMU & Wardrobe
Costs $1,200
Turns actors into characters...and you don't want to see us...unmade ;)
Post Production
Costs $2,000
This is where magic comes together and a film is made through editing, sound, music and coloring!
Locations & Permits
Costs $2,900
Finding the right locations and making it possible to shoot there!
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
We're thrilled about the incredible team of talented and passionate individuals we're assembling! Each member is bringing a unique skill set and tremendous positivity and enthusiasm to this project. Get to know the faces behind the scenes:
Catherine Cobb Ryan - Writer/Director/Producer/Actress
Catherine Cobb Ryan is an award-winning actor turned filmmaker and owner of Moon Hill Pictures. While navigating the whirlwind of raising 4 children in New York City and caring for sick and elderly family members on and off throughout her life, Catherine discovered a passion for storytelling. Her experiences fueled a desire to illuminate societal issues, particularly those affecting women and children. She aims to shine a light on women's experiences and amplify their voices, which so often go unheard. Her award-winning debut film, Season of Passage, courageously tackled the taboo topic of miscarriage, earning her critical acclaim and the appreciation of audiences worldwide. Catherine and her husband, Steve, are nearing the stage of being empty nesters and still happily reside in New York City. MoonHillPictures.com
Jaye Pniewski - Producer
Jaye Pniewski is a film and TV director who brings a unique style and inspiration to every project, telling stories that entertain and engage the audience. A 30-year veteran of the film industry, she has been a producer and director for multiple productions including two award-winning short films: Mend (2019) and Bound (2023). Jaye was recently named Best Director at the 2023 Southern Shorts Awards for her work on Bound. As the owner of her commercial production company BlueJaye Films and her narrative production company BuddyBoy Films, she has told many award-winning stories that have made a difference--one project at a time. After raising three beautiful daughters, Jaye and her wonderfully talented husband Mike live in Woodstock, GA. Find Jaye’s work at: BuddyBoyFilms.com. BlueJayeFilms.com
Stephen Beehler - Line Producer
Stephen Beehler is a creative entrepreneur with roots in filmmaking and technology. In 2018, he launched RoleCall, a film and theatre production logistics software, and began producing feature films under the RoleCall banner. As of 2024, Stephen has produced 8 feature films and also works as a freelance line-producer and production accountant. He recently opened Limelight Theater, an indie-focused venue in Atlanta, for filmmakers and theatre producers to exhibit their works. www.beehler.co
Jen Ponton - Media/PR Director
Jen Ponton is an award-winning actor and creator, bringing fresh, character-driven storytelling to the screen, the stage, and the tiny screen in your pocket. As an accomplished graphic designer and social media influencer, she brings her skills of creative, engaging content, evocative visuals, and grassroots outreach to the LIFESAVER team. As an actor, Jen is in pre-production on her first solo show, SUGARCOATED, which she has been molding and workshopping with Catherine since early 2023. SUGARCOATED will make its world premiere this June at the Denver Fringe Festival. For more info: jenponton.com
Katy Wilson - Ashley
Katy is an actor, singer, and Taylor Swift enthusiast based in Atlanta, GA. In 2024, Katy will be seen in the independent feature film, Grounded, starring opposite Robert Taylor (Longmire). Other recent TV/Film credits include: Heels (STARZ), Florida Man (Netflix), A Rose for Her Grave (Lifetime), New York Homicide (Oxygen) and A Christmas Open House (Warner Bros/Discovery+), as well a national commercial campaign opposite Aubrey Plaza. Recent theatre credits include Shelby in Steel Magnolias (Oregon Cabaret Theatre) and the 1st national tour of Polkadots. Her training includes the Accademia dell’Arte in Tuscany, Italy and a B.M. in Vocal Performance from Furman University. She is passionate about female-driven storytelling and is so excited to be a part of the Lifesaver team!
Lainey Knowles - Daisy May
A native of Atlanta, Lainey Knowles began acting at age 3 when she was cast as the youngest Loud sister, Lily Loud, in Nickelodeon's live action holiday movie, "A Loud House Christmas." She has been training weekly with the Professional Performance Prep NJ for over a year where she focuses on advanced acting technique. Lainey is currently filming her biggest role to-date in a much anticipated project with multiple A-list actors. She is hopeful to be able to share more soon. Lainey has also appeared in several short films, commercials, and other projects. On any given day, Lainey can be found riding bikes with her siblings, helping bake banana bread, performing a self-choreographed dance show, or cleaning and organizing the house.
Mickey Cole Jr. - Junior
Mickey Cole Jr is a born and raised Atlanta local. His father, Michael H Cole, inspired him to start acting at a young age. Mickey pursues both Theatre and Film while living in Atlanta. He has a passion for storytelling and loves stretching his imagination every day. Mickey recently appeared in Will Trent (ABC) and Swarm (Amazon), but you can also find him in The Resident (FOX) and Queen America (Facebook Video). If you don't see Mickey on screen or stage, it could be because he's exploring characters and stories while playing Dungeons and Dragons in his down time.
Amanda Fallon Smith - Mrs. Jackson
Amanda is a professional New York City/Atlanta based actress, producer and editor originally from Tampa, Florida. She is a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University with a BFA in Drama and a proud member of Actor's Equity Association. Her passion for the creative arts has allowed her to not only perform professionally around the world, but create and produce award-winning content within the independent film circuit. She has greatly enjoyed expanding her love of visual storytelling to the narrative, commercial and music video mediums.
Sharon Blackwood - Mrs. Goodman
Sharon Blackwood began her onscreen career in the TV series I’ll Fly Away in 1991. Her first film, Neon Bible, directed by Terence Davies, competed at Cannes. She has worked with Sidney Poitier, Kenneth Branagh, and Ellen Burstyn, among others. Notably, she appeared as Lola Loving in Loving, directed by Jeff Nichols, starring Joel Edgerton and Ruth Negga, who was nominated for an Academy Award. This fall, Brothers, starring Josh Brolin, Peter Dinklage, and Glenn Close, will be released in theaters. Her recent TV appearances include Will Trent, Dopesick, and Raising Dion, and she is known for her dramatic death scene in Ozark. Sharon lives near Atlanta, GA, with her husband Michael and their black lab, Molly, and is represented by Atlanta Models & Talent.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
A young girl, her mother, and her grandmother, each face their own variation of sexism and harassment. Feeling trapped, they forge their way through life imperfectly, doing the best they can. When the boys at school are repeatedly let off the hook for bullying Daisy and her friends during recess, she grows frustrated and angry, feeling abandoned by the adults in charge... including her mother and grandmother. Faced with returning to school, Daisy decides to take matters in her own hands, after discovering the one thing that might make them leave her alone.
Please PLEDGE, FOLLOW, and SHARE to help us make our film!
Any contribution will make a difference!
Your support is GREATLY APPRECIATED!
That's me at the playground when I was around four, full of spirit and devil-may-care.
I've always loved playgrounds and I especially loved recess in elementary school. My friends and I galloped around like horses, pretended we were a family of otters, and played kickball with glee. But my favorite part of recess was soaring to the sky on the swings with my friends, laughing and seeing how high we could go before jumping off.
Recess was freedom from all the other stuff in my life that was hard. But recess also had a down side. There were some boys who often made it miserable.
They teased us and ruined our games.
We tried to get them to leave us alone.
We tried to include them.
We asked the teachers for help.
No matter what we did, they didn't stop.
Then one of the boys pulled my pants down.
I was so shocked and embarrassed. Without even thinking, I swung at him, hitting him in the face. Not the smartest move, I know, but I was so desperate and fed up. I didn't know what to do. And, of course, it didn't help. I was barred from joining Brownies that year and the boys' bullying continued.
I'm pretty sure he doesn't even remember the incident. But decades later, I do.
And it planted the seeds for Lifesaver.
Characters
IMAGINE... a young, no-nonsense Dakota Fanning type...
IMAGINE... a feisty, determined Heather Graham type...
IMAGINE... a loving, rough around the edges Jessica Lange type...
Bullying impacts everyone, not just the victim.
Once I became a parent to boys and girls, it made me realize how the system failed both me... and those boys. My teachers--and later, most of my children's teachers--normalized the bullying instead of addressing its root causes or teaching empathy and conflict resolution.
All studies show that bystanders play a crucial role in interrupting this cycle of violence.
The fighting spirit of these women is the lead character.
Think... The Maid, Ginny & Georgia, Grandma, Hounddog
Picture images of the Deep South left behind… a subtle narrative of childhood solitude, helplessness and determination… the struggle of girlhood and womanhood…
A nuanced, honest and intimately told story about a life that exists so often, but is often overlooked or from which one turns a blind eye… a misguided sense of protection perpetuated by the gun lobby… micro aggressions that men create and women tolerate…
Danger lurks underneath unashamedly flawed people with their own dreams and regrets… the complexities of three intertwined generations, their needs, disappointments and love… real, resonant and haunting…
a testament to the grit and determination of women of all ages… trains its lens on the vicious cycle of poverty and abuse… a subtlety and richness of characters…
In the world of filmmaking, $19,500 is a micro budget. Our dedicated Line Producer embraced the challenge of bringing our film to life within these financial constraints.
Our aim is to allocate the bare minimum necessary to produce a quality film while compensating the cast & crew. We've been fortunate that the script has resonated with many, and they share our passion and vision. However, there's more to do…
• If we reach $22,000 - we'll cover film festival application fees, promotional expenses, and distribution costs. This will enable us to extend the reach of our film and share its message with a broader audience.
•. With $25,000 - we’ll be able to compensate our writer/director.
•. With $30,000 - we'll have the means to cover festival travel expenses, allowing our team to support our film in person!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Crew & Gear
Costs $8,600
Can't make a film without these talented people and equipment!
Production Design
Costs $2,000
Our designers create an immersive world, meticulously crafting every detail to bring the story to life!
Talent
Costs $2,000
Even we know this is a steal for great talent, but they understand this is micro-budget indie filmmaking!
Craft Services
Costs $800
If you've ever been on a film set you know how hard these people work...we've got to feed them so their gas tanks doesn't run empty!
HMU & Wardrobe
Costs $1,200
Turns actors into characters...and you don't want to see us...unmade ;)
Post Production
Costs $2,000
This is where magic comes together and a film is made through editing, sound, music and coloring!
Locations & Permits
Costs $2,900
Finding the right locations and making it possible to shoot there!
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
We're thrilled about the incredible team of talented and passionate individuals we're assembling! Each member is bringing a unique skill set and tremendous positivity and enthusiasm to this project. Get to know the faces behind the scenes:
Catherine Cobb Ryan - Writer/Director/Producer/Actress
Catherine Cobb Ryan is an award-winning actor turned filmmaker and owner of Moon Hill Pictures. While navigating the whirlwind of raising 4 children in New York City and caring for sick and elderly family members on and off throughout her life, Catherine discovered a passion for storytelling. Her experiences fueled a desire to illuminate societal issues, particularly those affecting women and children. She aims to shine a light on women's experiences and amplify their voices, which so often go unheard. Her award-winning debut film, Season of Passage, courageously tackled the taboo topic of miscarriage, earning her critical acclaim and the appreciation of audiences worldwide. Catherine and her husband, Steve, are nearing the stage of being empty nesters and still happily reside in New York City. MoonHillPictures.com
Jaye Pniewski - Producer
Jaye Pniewski is a film and TV director who brings a unique style and inspiration to every project, telling stories that entertain and engage the audience. A 30-year veteran of the film industry, she has been a producer and director for multiple productions including two award-winning short films: Mend (2019) and Bound (2023). Jaye was recently named Best Director at the 2023 Southern Shorts Awards for her work on Bound. As the owner of her commercial production company BlueJaye Films and her narrative production company BuddyBoy Films, she has told many award-winning stories that have made a difference--one project at a time. After raising three beautiful daughters, Jaye and her wonderfully talented husband Mike live in Woodstock, GA. Find Jaye’s work at: BuddyBoyFilms.com. BlueJayeFilms.com
Stephen Beehler - Line Producer
Stephen Beehler is a creative entrepreneur with roots in filmmaking and technology. In 2018, he launched RoleCall, a film and theatre production logistics software, and began producing feature films under the RoleCall banner. As of 2024, Stephen has produced 8 feature films and also works as a freelance line-producer and production accountant. He recently opened Limelight Theater, an indie-focused venue in Atlanta, for filmmakers and theatre producers to exhibit their works. www.beehler.co
Jen Ponton - Media/PR Director
Jen Ponton is an award-winning actor and creator, bringing fresh, character-driven storytelling to the screen, the stage, and the tiny screen in your pocket. As an accomplished graphic designer and social media influencer, she brings her skills of creative, engaging content, evocative visuals, and grassroots outreach to the LIFESAVER team. As an actor, Jen is in pre-production on her first solo show, SUGARCOATED, which she has been molding and workshopping with Catherine since early 2023. SUGARCOATED will make its world premiere this June at the Denver Fringe Festival. For more info: jenponton.com
Katy Wilson - Ashley
Katy is an actor, singer, and Taylor Swift enthusiast based in Atlanta, GA. In 2024, Katy will be seen in the independent feature film, Grounded, starring opposite Robert Taylor (Longmire). Other recent TV/Film credits include: Heels (STARZ), Florida Man (Netflix), A Rose for Her Grave (Lifetime), New York Homicide (Oxygen) and A Christmas Open House (Warner Bros/Discovery+), as well a national commercial campaign opposite Aubrey Plaza. Recent theatre credits include Shelby in Steel Magnolias (Oregon Cabaret Theatre) and the 1st national tour of Polkadots. Her training includes the Accademia dell’Arte in Tuscany, Italy and a B.M. in Vocal Performance from Furman University. She is passionate about female-driven storytelling and is so excited to be a part of the Lifesaver team!
Lainey Knowles - Daisy May
A native of Atlanta, Lainey Knowles began acting at age 3 when she was cast as the youngest Loud sister, Lily Loud, in Nickelodeon's live action holiday movie, "A Loud House Christmas." She has been training weekly with the Professional Performance Prep NJ for over a year where she focuses on advanced acting technique. Lainey is currently filming her biggest role to-date in a much anticipated project with multiple A-list actors. She is hopeful to be able to share more soon. Lainey has also appeared in several short films, commercials, and other projects. On any given day, Lainey can be found riding bikes with her siblings, helping bake banana bread, performing a self-choreographed dance show, or cleaning and organizing the house.
Mickey Cole Jr. - Junior
Mickey Cole Jr is a born and raised Atlanta local. His father, Michael H Cole, inspired him to start acting at a young age. Mickey pursues both Theatre and Film while living in Atlanta. He has a passion for storytelling and loves stretching his imagination every day. Mickey recently appeared in Will Trent (ABC) and Swarm (Amazon), but you can also find him in The Resident (FOX) and Queen America (Facebook Video). If you don't see Mickey on screen or stage, it could be because he's exploring characters and stories while playing Dungeons and Dragons in his down time.
Amanda Fallon Smith - Mrs. Jackson
Amanda is a professional New York City/Atlanta based actress, producer and editor originally from Tampa, Florida. She is a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University with a BFA in Drama and a proud member of Actor's Equity Association. Her passion for the creative arts has allowed her to not only perform professionally around the world, but create and produce award-winning content within the independent film circuit. She has greatly enjoyed expanding her love of visual storytelling to the narrative, commercial and music video mediums.
Sharon Blackwood - Mrs. Goodman
Sharon Blackwood began her onscreen career in the TV series I’ll Fly Away in 1991. Her first film, Neon Bible, directed by Terence Davies, competed at Cannes. She has worked with Sidney Poitier, Kenneth Branagh, and Ellen Burstyn, among others. Notably, she appeared as Lola Loving in Loving, directed by Jeff Nichols, starring Joel Edgerton and Ruth Negga, who was nominated for an Academy Award. This fall, Brothers, starring Josh Brolin, Peter Dinklage, and Glenn Close, will be released in theaters. Her recent TV appearances include Will Trent, Dopesick, and Raising Dion, and she is known for her dramatic death scene in Ozark. Sharon lives near Atlanta, GA, with her husband Michael and their black lab, Molly, and is represented by Atlanta Models & Talent.