MAMA SUNSHINE
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Drama
What happens when the person who raised you starts performing motherhood for strangers online?
MAMA SUNSHINE
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Drama
1 Campaigns | California, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $1,530 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
28 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
What happens when the person who raised you starts performing motherhood for strangers online?
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
The Story
What happens when it feels like your mom loves the internet more than you?
Jessica, known online as Mama Sunshine, has built a wholesome mother influencer brand around her "perfect" family life. But her daughter Chloe feels neglected is tired of being used for views.
As Jessica chases likes, comments, and sponsorships, Chloe starts pushing back against a life she never agreed to share.
Mama Sunshine is the contradiction of parents warning their kids not to care about likes, views, and comments while becoming victims of that same validation themselves.
Lady Bird (2017)
Why This Story Matters
Microsoft’s 2019 Digital Civility study found that 42% of teens across 25 countries had a problem with how much their parents posted about them online. Cases like Ruby Franke, the former 8 Passengers family vlogger who pleaded guilty to four counts of aggravated child abuse, show how a polished online family image can hide something much darker.
ABC NEWS COVERAGE OF ISSUE: The other side of social media: Parents oversharing on social
Mama Sunshine is not based on Ruby Franke, but it comes from the same uncomfortable question: what happens when a parent becomes more attached to the image of family than the actual family?
Eighth Grade (2018)
The Plan
We plan to film Mama Sunshine in summer/fall 2026.
The script/story is roughly 20 pages and it takes place mostly inside one home, we can keep the production lean while focusing our energy on the actual message we want to shed light on.
After production, we plan to market the film and send it off through the festival circuit, beginning in Q4 2026.
One of our biggest marketing ideas is creating a real Instagram account for Mama Sunshine, where Mama will post influencer style posts, family videos, fake sponsored content, and subtle promotion for the actual short.
We want the marketing to feel native to social media, allowing audiences to experience Mama Sunshine before they even watch the film.
Our goal is to make Mama Sunshine a strong standalone short while also using it as a proof of concept for a future feature film.
Our History
Since we were 12, my friends and I have been making short films together whenever we got the chance. Now, at 18/19, this is the next chapter of that creative journey.
The crew behind Mama Sunshine is a young, California-based independent film team made up of emerging filmmakers, SAG-AFTRA performers, trained actors, and crew members with real Hollywood set experience. Led by writer-director Bardia Seiri, the team combines creative collaboration with practical production knowledge, including experience connected to Teamsters Local 399, IATSE Local 80, professional acting credits, sound, art direction, lighting, locations, and original music. Together, the crew gives Mama Sunshine the energy of a personal indie short while carrying the structure and professionalism of a real working production.
We Need Your Support
We already have access to film equipment along with a talented volunteer cast and crew. Because of that, we are keeping our finanical goal small and focused only on the essentials.
We’re raising $1000 to help produce our short film MAMA SUNSHINE. We’re keeping the production small and resourceful by using our own equipment, locations, and a volunteer cast and crew. Funds will go directly toward feeding the team, purchasing props, food items, set dressing, and covering basic production costs across our three-day shoot. $275 will go toward minimal props to create the influencer aesthetic. $300 will be used for snacks and meals during our 3 day shoot, ensuring our crew is taken care of. 150$ for emergency production costs. Finally, $275 will help us submit to festivals so we can share Mama Sunshine with wider audiences.
This film is deeply personal to our team because many of us have experienced this issue firsthand or seen it happen close to us. We hope audiences recognize a piece of themselves in the story and feel less alone in that experience.
$1000 Goal Breakdown
$300 - Cast & crew meals
$275 - Props
$275 - Festival Submission Fees
$150 - Contingency fund
$1300 Stretch Goal
+$100 - Additional festival submissions
+$200 - Cast & crew appreciation
And finally, every contribution, big or small, brings us closer to telling a story that we truly believe needs to be shared.
Thank you for helping us make Mama Sunshine, shine!
Below, you’ll see a few snapshots from some of our past projects that we’ve crafted and grown from.
AI DISCLOSURE: Minimal AI tools were used only to help create a small number of promotional images related strictly to the campaign for MAMA SUNSHINE.
If this story connects with you or you have seen this type of issue around you or on social media, we would truly appreciate your support in helping bring Mama Sunshine to life :)
Sincerely,
Mama Sunshine Team
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Production Design
Costs $275
Influencer-style decor, props, and set dressing.
Crafty
Costs $300
Snacks, water, and meals.
Festival Submission Fees
Costs $275
Festival submissions fees!
Contingency fund
Costs $150
Money set aside for unexpected production needs.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
────────────────────────────────────
Bardia Seiri
Writer/Director/Executive Producer
Mama Sunshine is written and directed by Bardia Seiri, an 18-year-old Iranian-American filmmaker, actor, and student based in California.
Bardia began acting as a child and is a SAG-AFTRA performer with credits including major TV and films, as well as numerous commercial projects in the U.S. and Iran.
As a filmmaker, Bardia has written and directed multiple short films that have earned festival recognition from festivals and organizations, including Dances With Films: LA, All American High School Film Festival, Teen Indie Awards, and many more.
Since 2019, Bardia has expanded into writing and directing his own short films. His experience both in front of and behind the camera helps shape Mama Sunshine.
────────────────────────────────────
Ryan Harris
Co-Writer / Assistant Director / Producer
Ryan Harris is the co-writer, assistant director, and producer of Mama Sunshine, as well as a close creative collaborator of filmmaker Bardia Seiri. Often serving as one of the key creative minds behind their projects, Ryan helps shape stories from the earliest stages of development through production, contributing as a writer, organizer, and hands-on filmmaker.
As a writer, Ryan brings a strong understanding of Gen Z culture, social media, family dynamics, and online identity. His creative voice helps keep Mama Sunshine grounded, current, and emotionally honest, balancing the film’s uncomfortable comedy with real social commentary. His work focuses on making characters feel natural, dialogue feel authentic, and the story feel connected to the way young people actually think, speak, and experience the world.
Ryan’s collaboration with Bardia Seiri has been part of a growing slate of short-form projects, including festival-recognized films such as Crickets, AIRPODS, SIDE-TRACK’D, and DIRECTOR. Having contributed to these projects across both creative and on-screen roles, Ryan brings a well-rounded understanding of storytelling, performance, set communication, and production flow. On Mama Sunshine, his role is focused behind the camera as co-writer, assistant director, and producer, helping guide the project from development through production.
Beyond the writing process, Ryan plays an important role in the logistics and execution of production. On set, he helps manage the flow of the day, supports the director, coordinates communication between cast and crew, assists with equipment setup, and keeps the production moving efficiently. His responsibilities have also included creating and sending call sheets, location scouting, scheduling support, and troubleshooting production needs as they arise.
With Mama Sunshine, Ryan continues to grow as a filmmaker by combining strong story instincts, leadership on set, and practical production experience. His ability to move between writing, assistant directing, producing, and hands-on crew work makes him a valuable part of the team both creatively and logistically, helping bring the project from the page to the screen.
────────────────────────────────────
Abigail Mansur
Actress/Chloe
Abigail Mansur plays Chloe, the heart of Mama Sunshine. As Chloe, she brings vulnerability, frustration, and quiet strength to a teenager trying to reclaim her privacy from the online image her mother has built around her.
A graduate of the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA), Abigail Mansur is a versatile performer with a strong foundation in ensemble-driven storytelling, bringing equal passion to acting for the stage and screen.
Some highlights from her training include devising, classical and modern text analysis, character development, motion capture, movement through dance and stage combat, and strong ensemble collaboration, allowing her to move fluidly between heightened theatrical work and grounded contemporary performance.
She has taken on leading roles in Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors, The Shawshank Redemption, Much Ado About Nothing, and Our Town, and has been featured as an ensemble member in stage productions of Hadestown and Mean Girls.
Her performance work has been recognized with First Place for a contemporary scene at the Hart District Theatre Festival, First Place for a classical scene at DTASC, as well as the Best Actress Award, Best Ensemble Member Award, and the Their Smile Brighten Your Day Award.
────────────────────────────────────
Samarah Summers
Actress/Mama Sunshine/Jessica
Samarah Summers plays Jessica, also known online as Mama Sunshine. Her role balances warmth, comedy, insecurity, and obsession as a mother who genuinely loves her daughter but has become addicted to the validation of being seen as a perfect parent.
Samarah Summers is a SAG-AFTRA actress with over a decade of experience working on professional film and television sets, both in front of and behind the camera in production.
Her acting work spans independent films, studio features, television, and theater, with lead and supporting roles in projects including 80 for Brady, Mysteries of the Unexplained, and multiple award-winning independent films.
She has trained extensively in Los Angeles with respected casting directors, acting coaches, and industry professionals, specializing in on-camera audition technique, scene study, and episodic television performance.
In addition to her acting credits, Samarah's years working in television production have given her a deep understanding of set dynamics, professionalism, and the collaborative filmmaking process.
────────────────────────────────────
Joaquin Soto
Gaffer
Joaquin Soto is a director of photography and filmmaker with a background in documentary, stop motion, broadcast, and narrative projects. His extensive experience in the Grip and Electric departments as well as a decade of editing and visual effects continues to inform his work and process as he seeks unique stories and the best visuals to tell them.
────────────────────────────────────
Levi Francis
Costume Designer
Levi is a costume designer with over four years of experience in wardrobe and theatrical costume design. His previous credits include productions such as Frozen, Grease, and Li’l Abner. With a background in developing character-driven wardrobe pieces for live performance, Levi brings a strong eye for visual storytelling, authenticity, and style to Mama Sunshine, helping shape the film’s distinct look and character identity through costume design.
────────────────────────────────────
Jadon Cole
1st AC
Jadon Cole is a SAG-AFTRA actor who has spent a majority of his childhood in front of the camera or on the stage. His credits include Apple TV’s The Instigators, Netflix’s Dead to Me, along with many award-winning independent films including, Splinter, and Rescued. On stage Jadon has had multiple Equity contracts including The Polar Express, and Newsies.
In more recent times in addition to his acting Jadon has expanded his skill and has joined the production side of the industry. It was in a Film class where Jadon met Bardia and the rest of the team, and since then has been apart of many of his projects as an actor or behind the scenes.
He has also spent time shadowing one of the top camera operators in the country Nick Müller, S.O.C. and through that has gained professional knowledge and experience on feature big budget sets.
────────────────────────────────────
Chase Bowers
Production Sound
Chase Bowers is a Psychology student at UC Davis with a natural talent for communication, collaboration, and creative work. With a background in theater, choir, and video production, Chase brings a well-rounded artistic sensibility and a strong understanding of how performance and storytelling come together.
His experience founding and leading a student organization demonstrates initiative and leadership, while years of working in fast-paced team environments have sharpened his ability to adapt, problem-solve, and deliver under pressure.
Passionate about human interaction and group dynamics, Chase approaches every creative project with both enthusiasm and a genuine team-first mindset.
────────────────────────────────────
Mariah "Riah” Zimmerman
Production Designer / Art Director
Mariah brings a diverse creative background and strong leadership experience to the art department.
Throughout her academic and creative career, she has served as president of her high school vocal ensemble, marketing artist in her school’s literary magazine, and marketing manager for multiple clubs and organizations such as Bring Change to Mind and The Pad Project.
A lifelong artist, she has extensive experience in music, painting, and visual design, with a passion for creating meaningful work that reflects real-world issues and inspires important conversations.
────────────────────────────────────
Eric Sanchez
Grip/Location Manager
Eric Sanchez is a 19-year-old professional driver for Universal Studios Hollywood based in California with deep ties to Hollywood’s film industry. He comes from a long line of industry drivers, with both his father, Ernesto Sanchez, and several family members working through Teamsters Local 399, the union that represents and protects drivers throughout Hollywood film and television production.
Growing up around the professional filmmaking world, Eric became familiar with the pace, pressure, and expectations of working on set from a young age. His experience around productions has helped him develop a strong understanding of set etiquette, safety, communication, and the importance of keeping a production running smoothly under tight schedules and fast-paced conditions.
One example of Eric’s professional experience includes his involvement with NBCUniversal’s The Paper during the filming of Season 2. While on set, Eric spent time collaborating with members of craft services and crew members from IATSE Local 80, also known as grips, helping ensure that production continued in a safe, organized, and efficient way. His ability to work alongside different departments demonstrates his comfort in a real production environment and his understanding of how each part of a crew contributes to the overall success of a shoot.
In addition to driving, many Teamsters Local 399 members also work closely with location departments, helping manage the logistics, permits, transportation, and coordination required for filming locations. Eric’s father, Ernesto Sanchez, has worked as a location manager on major productions, including Universal’s Bel-Air. Before Eric was eligible to become a Teamster himself, Ernesto would bring him along to observe and teach him the responsibilities involved in managing a professional set and location. Through this, Eric gained early hands-on exposure to the behind-the-scenes structure of film and television production.
Throughout his life, Eric has been surrounded by filmmakers, crew members, and working professionals in Hollywood. This background is reflected in the confidence and professionalism he brings to a set. Even during the more difficult moments of production, Eric remains calm, focused, and dependable. His involvement in Mama Sunshine adds an experienced and knowledgeable helping hand to the project, bringing valuable insight into set operations, production flow, and teamwork.
Eric has also helped director Bardia Seiri and assistant director Ryan Harris on several past projects, making his role in Mama Sunshine part of a larger creative history between the team. His connection to the crew, combined with his real-world industry experience, makes him an important part of the production. Together, this group is not just a team of young filmmakers, but a connected, hardworking, and experienced crew with the foundation needed for success.
────────────────────────────────────
Nabeel Jacobs (NJay)
Original Score Composer
Nabeel Jacobs is a 19-year-old music producer and artist based in California. Music has been a major part of his life for as long as he can remember, and he began producing at the age of 12.
Over the years, Nabeel has developed a strong passion for creating music that blends emotion, creativity, and individuality. As both a producer and artist, he enjoys experimenting with different sounds and styles while continuing to grow his craft and expand his musical abilities.
His experience in music production has helped him develop skills in composition, sound design, arrangement, and recording, all of which have shaped his artistic identity.
Being involved in this film project has given Nabeel the opportunity to contribute to a larger creative vision while further pursuing his passion for music in the entertainment industry.
────────────────────────────────────
Joaquin Rios
Social Media / BTS Coordinator
Joaquin Rios is 19 years old and is currently going to college, majoring in marketing. As a BTS coordinator, he will help things come together while keeping the energy positive and enjoyable for everyone involved.
Joaquin's interest in film started in High School when he joined his school's broadcasting program. That’s where he learned most of his filmmaking skills while being a part of a creative environment.
He’s easy-going, works well with others, and enjoys being part of experiences that bring people together. Joaquin values good vibes, teamwork, and making the most out of every opportunity.
────────────────────────────────────
Ryan Alikhanian
Script Supervisor
Alikhanian is a current CSUN film student serving as script supervisor for Mama Sunshine. He has experience working in both pre-production and production on several student short films, giving him a strong understanding of set organization, continuity, and the collaborative nature of filmmaking.
As script supervisor, Ryan will help track continuity, performance details, and scene coverage throughout production. He is excited to be part of Mama Sunshine and to contribute to bringing the story to life.
────────────────────────────────────
Dillon Lovelace
Grip/Production Assistant
Dillon Lovelace is a 19-year-old film producer based in California. His interest in filmmaking began through his father, Devin Lovelace, who worked as an editor for television. Inspired by his father’s career and creative background, Dillon followed a similar path by joining a film class in high school, where he began learning the foundations of production and storytelling.
It was in this film class that Dillon met Bardia Seiri and the rest of their creative crew. Together, they produced numerous film projects both in and outside of school, gaining experience in collaboration, producing, editing, directing, and working as part of a production team.
Dillon later joined his school’s daily morning news club, where he expanded his skills across different areas of media production, including organization, communication, technical production, and creative problem-solving. Now more casually involved in film, Dillon continues to pursue his passion for creating and teaching art. He assists with marketing and develops creative pieces for Mama Sunshine, helping support the project’s artistic vision and outreach.
────────────────────────────────────
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
The Story
What happens when it feels like your mom loves the internet more than you?
Jessica, known online as Mama Sunshine, has built a wholesome mother influencer brand around her "perfect" family life. But her daughter Chloe feels neglected is tired of being used for views.
As Jessica chases likes, comments, and sponsorships, Chloe starts pushing back against a life she never agreed to share.
Mama Sunshine is the contradiction of parents warning their kids not to care about likes, views, and comments while becoming victims of that same validation themselves.
Lady Bird (2017)
Why This Story Matters
Microsoft’s 2019 Digital Civility study found that 42% of teens across 25 countries had a problem with how much their parents posted about them online. Cases like Ruby Franke, the former 8 Passengers family vlogger who pleaded guilty to four counts of aggravated child abuse, show how a polished online family image can hide something much darker.
ABC NEWS COVERAGE OF ISSUE: The other side of social media: Parents oversharing on social
Mama Sunshine is not based on Ruby Franke, but it comes from the same uncomfortable question: what happens when a parent becomes more attached to the image of family than the actual family?
Eighth Grade (2018)
The Plan
We plan to film Mama Sunshine in summer/fall 2026.
The script/story is roughly 20 pages and it takes place mostly inside one home, we can keep the production lean while focusing our energy on the actual message we want to shed light on.
After production, we plan to market the film and send it off through the festival circuit, beginning in Q4 2026.
One of our biggest marketing ideas is creating a real Instagram account for Mama Sunshine, where Mama will post influencer style posts, family videos, fake sponsored content, and subtle promotion for the actual short.
We want the marketing to feel native to social media, allowing audiences to experience Mama Sunshine before they even watch the film.
Our goal is to make Mama Sunshine a strong standalone short while also using it as a proof of concept for a future feature film.
Our History
Since we were 12, my friends and I have been making short films together whenever we got the chance. Now, at 18/19, this is the next chapter of that creative journey.
The crew behind Mama Sunshine is a young, California-based independent film team made up of emerging filmmakers, SAG-AFTRA performers, trained actors, and crew members with real Hollywood set experience. Led by writer-director Bardia Seiri, the team combines creative collaboration with practical production knowledge, including experience connected to Teamsters Local 399, IATSE Local 80, professional acting credits, sound, art direction, lighting, locations, and original music. Together, the crew gives Mama Sunshine the energy of a personal indie short while carrying the structure and professionalism of a real working production.
We Need Your Support
We already have access to film equipment along with a talented volunteer cast and crew. Because of that, we are keeping our finanical goal small and focused only on the essentials.
We’re raising $1000 to help produce our short film MAMA SUNSHINE. We’re keeping the production small and resourceful by using our own equipment, locations, and a volunteer cast and crew. Funds will go directly toward feeding the team, purchasing props, food items, set dressing, and covering basic production costs across our three-day shoot. $275 will go toward minimal props to create the influencer aesthetic. $300 will be used for snacks and meals during our 3 day shoot, ensuring our crew is taken care of. 150$ for emergency production costs. Finally, $275 will help us submit to festivals so we can share Mama Sunshine with wider audiences.
This film is deeply personal to our team because many of us have experienced this issue firsthand or seen it happen close to us. We hope audiences recognize a piece of themselves in the story and feel less alone in that experience.
$1000 Goal Breakdown
$300 - Cast & crew meals
$275 - Props
$275 - Festival Submission Fees
$150 - Contingency fund
$1300 Stretch Goal
+$100 - Additional festival submissions
+$200 - Cast & crew appreciation
And finally, every contribution, big or small, brings us closer to telling a story that we truly believe needs to be shared.
Thank you for helping us make Mama Sunshine, shine!
Below, you’ll see a few snapshots from some of our past projects that we’ve crafted and grown from.
AI DISCLOSURE: Minimal AI tools were used only to help create a small number of promotional images related strictly to the campaign for MAMA SUNSHINE.
If this story connects with you or you have seen this type of issue around you or on social media, we would truly appreciate your support in helping bring Mama Sunshine to life :)
Sincerely,
Mama Sunshine Team
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Production Design
Costs $275
Influencer-style decor, props, and set dressing.
Crafty
Costs $300
Snacks, water, and meals.
Festival Submission Fees
Costs $275
Festival submissions fees!
Contingency fund
Costs $150
Money set aside for unexpected production needs.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
────────────────────────────────────
Bardia Seiri
Writer/Director/Executive Producer
Mama Sunshine is written and directed by Bardia Seiri, an 18-year-old Iranian-American filmmaker, actor, and student based in California.
Bardia began acting as a child and is a SAG-AFTRA performer with credits including major TV and films, as well as numerous commercial projects in the U.S. and Iran.
As a filmmaker, Bardia has written and directed multiple short films that have earned festival recognition from festivals and organizations, including Dances With Films: LA, All American High School Film Festival, Teen Indie Awards, and many more.
Since 2019, Bardia has expanded into writing and directing his own short films. His experience both in front of and behind the camera helps shape Mama Sunshine.
────────────────────────────────────
Ryan Harris
Co-Writer / Assistant Director / Producer
Ryan Harris is the co-writer, assistant director, and producer of Mama Sunshine, as well as a close creative collaborator of filmmaker Bardia Seiri. Often serving as one of the key creative minds behind their projects, Ryan helps shape stories from the earliest stages of development through production, contributing as a writer, organizer, and hands-on filmmaker.
As a writer, Ryan brings a strong understanding of Gen Z culture, social media, family dynamics, and online identity. His creative voice helps keep Mama Sunshine grounded, current, and emotionally honest, balancing the film’s uncomfortable comedy with real social commentary. His work focuses on making characters feel natural, dialogue feel authentic, and the story feel connected to the way young people actually think, speak, and experience the world.
Ryan’s collaboration with Bardia Seiri has been part of a growing slate of short-form projects, including festival-recognized films such as Crickets, AIRPODS, SIDE-TRACK’D, and DIRECTOR. Having contributed to these projects across both creative and on-screen roles, Ryan brings a well-rounded understanding of storytelling, performance, set communication, and production flow. On Mama Sunshine, his role is focused behind the camera as co-writer, assistant director, and producer, helping guide the project from development through production.
Beyond the writing process, Ryan plays an important role in the logistics and execution of production. On set, he helps manage the flow of the day, supports the director, coordinates communication between cast and crew, assists with equipment setup, and keeps the production moving efficiently. His responsibilities have also included creating and sending call sheets, location scouting, scheduling support, and troubleshooting production needs as they arise.
With Mama Sunshine, Ryan continues to grow as a filmmaker by combining strong story instincts, leadership on set, and practical production experience. His ability to move between writing, assistant directing, producing, and hands-on crew work makes him a valuable part of the team both creatively and logistically, helping bring the project from the page to the screen.
────────────────────────────────────
Abigail Mansur
Actress/Chloe
Abigail Mansur plays Chloe, the heart of Mama Sunshine. As Chloe, she brings vulnerability, frustration, and quiet strength to a teenager trying to reclaim her privacy from the online image her mother has built around her.
A graduate of the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA), Abigail Mansur is a versatile performer with a strong foundation in ensemble-driven storytelling, bringing equal passion to acting for the stage and screen.
Some highlights from her training include devising, classical and modern text analysis, character development, motion capture, movement through dance and stage combat, and strong ensemble collaboration, allowing her to move fluidly between heightened theatrical work and grounded contemporary performance.
She has taken on leading roles in Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors, The Shawshank Redemption, Much Ado About Nothing, and Our Town, and has been featured as an ensemble member in stage productions of Hadestown and Mean Girls.
Her performance work has been recognized with First Place for a contemporary scene at the Hart District Theatre Festival, First Place for a classical scene at DTASC, as well as the Best Actress Award, Best Ensemble Member Award, and the Their Smile Brighten Your Day Award.
────────────────────────────────────
Samarah Summers
Actress/Mama Sunshine/Jessica
Samarah Summers plays Jessica, also known online as Mama Sunshine. Her role balances warmth, comedy, insecurity, and obsession as a mother who genuinely loves her daughter but has become addicted to the validation of being seen as a perfect parent.
Samarah Summers is a SAG-AFTRA actress with over a decade of experience working on professional film and television sets, both in front of and behind the camera in production.
Her acting work spans independent films, studio features, television, and theater, with lead and supporting roles in projects including 80 for Brady, Mysteries of the Unexplained, and multiple award-winning independent films.
She has trained extensively in Los Angeles with respected casting directors, acting coaches, and industry professionals, specializing in on-camera audition technique, scene study, and episodic television performance.
In addition to her acting credits, Samarah's years working in television production have given her a deep understanding of set dynamics, professionalism, and the collaborative filmmaking process.
────────────────────────────────────
Joaquin Soto
Gaffer
Joaquin Soto is a director of photography and filmmaker with a background in documentary, stop motion, broadcast, and narrative projects. His extensive experience in the Grip and Electric departments as well as a decade of editing and visual effects continues to inform his work and process as he seeks unique stories and the best visuals to tell them.
────────────────────────────────────
Levi Francis
Costume Designer
Levi is a costume designer with over four years of experience in wardrobe and theatrical costume design. His previous credits include productions such as Frozen, Grease, and Li’l Abner. With a background in developing character-driven wardrobe pieces for live performance, Levi brings a strong eye for visual storytelling, authenticity, and style to Mama Sunshine, helping shape the film’s distinct look and character identity through costume design.
────────────────────────────────────
Jadon Cole
1st AC
Jadon Cole is a SAG-AFTRA actor who has spent a majority of his childhood in front of the camera or on the stage. His credits include Apple TV’s The Instigators, Netflix’s Dead to Me, along with many award-winning independent films including, Splinter, and Rescued. On stage Jadon has had multiple Equity contracts including The Polar Express, and Newsies.
In more recent times in addition to his acting Jadon has expanded his skill and has joined the production side of the industry. It was in a Film class where Jadon met Bardia and the rest of the team, and since then has been apart of many of his projects as an actor or behind the scenes.
He has also spent time shadowing one of the top camera operators in the country Nick Müller, S.O.C. and through that has gained professional knowledge and experience on feature big budget sets.
────────────────────────────────────
Chase Bowers
Production Sound
Chase Bowers is a Psychology student at UC Davis with a natural talent for communication, collaboration, and creative work. With a background in theater, choir, and video production, Chase brings a well-rounded artistic sensibility and a strong understanding of how performance and storytelling come together.
His experience founding and leading a student organization demonstrates initiative and leadership, while years of working in fast-paced team environments have sharpened his ability to adapt, problem-solve, and deliver under pressure.
Passionate about human interaction and group dynamics, Chase approaches every creative project with both enthusiasm and a genuine team-first mindset.
────────────────────────────────────
Mariah "Riah” Zimmerman
Production Designer / Art Director
Mariah brings a diverse creative background and strong leadership experience to the art department.
Throughout her academic and creative career, she has served as president of her high school vocal ensemble, marketing artist in her school’s literary magazine, and marketing manager for multiple clubs and organizations such as Bring Change to Mind and The Pad Project.
A lifelong artist, she has extensive experience in music, painting, and visual design, with a passion for creating meaningful work that reflects real-world issues and inspires important conversations.
────────────────────────────────────
Eric Sanchez
Grip/Location Manager
Eric Sanchez is a 19-year-old professional driver for Universal Studios Hollywood based in California with deep ties to Hollywood’s film industry. He comes from a long line of industry drivers, with both his father, Ernesto Sanchez, and several family members working through Teamsters Local 399, the union that represents and protects drivers throughout Hollywood film and television production.
Growing up around the professional filmmaking world, Eric became familiar with the pace, pressure, and expectations of working on set from a young age. His experience around productions has helped him develop a strong understanding of set etiquette, safety, communication, and the importance of keeping a production running smoothly under tight schedules and fast-paced conditions.
One example of Eric’s professional experience includes his involvement with NBCUniversal’s The Paper during the filming of Season 2. While on set, Eric spent time collaborating with members of craft services and crew members from IATSE Local 80, also known as grips, helping ensure that production continued in a safe, organized, and efficient way. His ability to work alongside different departments demonstrates his comfort in a real production environment and his understanding of how each part of a crew contributes to the overall success of a shoot.
In addition to driving, many Teamsters Local 399 members also work closely with location departments, helping manage the logistics, permits, transportation, and coordination required for filming locations. Eric’s father, Ernesto Sanchez, has worked as a location manager on major productions, including Universal’s Bel-Air. Before Eric was eligible to become a Teamster himself, Ernesto would bring him along to observe and teach him the responsibilities involved in managing a professional set and location. Through this, Eric gained early hands-on exposure to the behind-the-scenes structure of film and television production.
Throughout his life, Eric has been surrounded by filmmakers, crew members, and working professionals in Hollywood. This background is reflected in the confidence and professionalism he brings to a set. Even during the more difficult moments of production, Eric remains calm, focused, and dependable. His involvement in Mama Sunshine adds an experienced and knowledgeable helping hand to the project, bringing valuable insight into set operations, production flow, and teamwork.
Eric has also helped director Bardia Seiri and assistant director Ryan Harris on several past projects, making his role in Mama Sunshine part of a larger creative history between the team. His connection to the crew, combined with his real-world industry experience, makes him an important part of the production. Together, this group is not just a team of young filmmakers, but a connected, hardworking, and experienced crew with the foundation needed for success.
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Nabeel Jacobs (NJay)
Original Score Composer
Nabeel Jacobs is a 19-year-old music producer and artist based in California. Music has been a major part of his life for as long as he can remember, and he began producing at the age of 12.
Over the years, Nabeel has developed a strong passion for creating music that blends emotion, creativity, and individuality. As both a producer and artist, he enjoys experimenting with different sounds and styles while continuing to grow his craft and expand his musical abilities.
His experience in music production has helped him develop skills in composition, sound design, arrangement, and recording, all of which have shaped his artistic identity.
Being involved in this film project has given Nabeel the opportunity to contribute to a larger creative vision while further pursuing his passion for music in the entertainment industry.
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Joaquin Rios
Social Media / BTS Coordinator
Joaquin Rios is 19 years old and is currently going to college, majoring in marketing. As a BTS coordinator, he will help things come together while keeping the energy positive and enjoyable for everyone involved.
Joaquin's interest in film started in High School when he joined his school's broadcasting program. That’s where he learned most of his filmmaking skills while being a part of a creative environment.
He’s easy-going, works well with others, and enjoys being part of experiences that bring people together. Joaquin values good vibes, teamwork, and making the most out of every opportunity.
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Ryan Alikhanian
Script Supervisor
Alikhanian is a current CSUN film student serving as script supervisor for Mama Sunshine. He has experience working in both pre-production and production on several student short films, giving him a strong understanding of set organization, continuity, and the collaborative nature of filmmaking.
As script supervisor, Ryan will help track continuity, performance details, and scene coverage throughout production. He is excited to be part of Mama Sunshine and to contribute to bringing the story to life.
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Dillon Lovelace
Grip/Production Assistant
Dillon Lovelace is a 19-year-old film producer based in California. His interest in filmmaking began through his father, Devin Lovelace, who worked as an editor for television. Inspired by his father’s career and creative background, Dillon followed a similar path by joining a film class in high school, where he began learning the foundations of production and storytelling.
It was in this film class that Dillon met Bardia Seiri and the rest of their creative crew. Together, they produced numerous film projects both in and outside of school, gaining experience in collaboration, producing, editing, directing, and working as part of a production team.
Dillon later joined his school’s daily morning news club, where he expanded his skills across different areas of media production, including organization, communication, technical production, and creative problem-solving. Now more casually involved in film, Dillon continues to pursue his passion for creating and teaching art. He assists with marketing and develops creative pieces for Mama Sunshine, helping support the project’s artistic vision and outreach.