OBSCURA
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Horror, Drama
Amidst a divorce, a photographer's photoshoot transforms into a nightmarish descent into his own karmic reckoning. Inspired by horror stories of women in the creative industries, OBSCURA explores the consequences of one's actions.
OBSCURA
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Horror, Drama
1 Campaigns | California, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $10,100 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
82 supporters | followers
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Amidst a divorce, a photographer's photoshoot transforms into a nightmarish descent into his own karmic reckoning. Inspired by horror stories of women in the creative industries, OBSCURA explores the consequences of one's actions.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
A renowned photographer, Ezra, is in hot water due to his past mistreatment of models during his photo shoots. In recent years, his fame has transformed into infamy, and his once prestigious career now hangs in the balance. In an attempt to salvage his name and reputation, he directs a feminist photo shoot, but things take a dark turn when Ezra candidly expresses his true feelings about the shoot's purpose. As chaos and surreal terror ensue, Ezra's reality unravels before his eyes, leaving behind only haunting echoes of a life once lived.
In this cautionary tale, we will witness a man exposed to the unforgiving and utterly inexplicable lens of truth.
Good Time (2017)
TROPES
OBSCURA revolves around the idea of self-reflection and karma.
Reap What You Sow
The distorted reflections and surreal twists of horror bring Ezra face-to-face with the consequences of his actions, forcing him to be held accountable for the first time.
Karma Houdini
Ezra has been a Karma Houdini his whole life, never truly facing serious consequences for his wrongdoings, consistently evading accountability through fame and power. However, this is the story of how a Karma Houdini is finally proven wrong and receives the punishment he deserves.
Karmic Overkill (or is it?)
Karmic Overkill is when a person's karma goes beyond what is truly deserved. Who ever said the consequences would be equal?
Black Mirror: Season 1, Episode 3 (2011)
TONE/ARTISTIC APPROACH
The tone of the film will be reminiscent of works like Black Mirror or The Twilight Zone, Good Time, and The Disaster Artist—gritty, intense, and absurd, with unpredictable characters akin to those found in a Safdie Brothers' film. Visually, the film will incorporate harsh lighting and claustrophobic, close-up framing when necessary to create a sense of unease. The use of quick cuts and frenetic camera movements will intensify scenes and foster a suspenseful atmosphere. Nothing in this world will feel safe or trustworthy.
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Ex Machina (2014)
DIRECTOR’S STATEMENT
It started as a nightmare. I dreamt I was sitting on my couch, watching television, but there was no screen. Instead, I was staring into the lens of a giant camera. My jaw was locked, and I was drooling, staring back at myself in the lens. When I woke up, I felt strange, knowing it clearly had something to do with self-reflection and the choice to re-evaluate my behavior and decisions. Yet, I couldn’t shake the thought of what might happen if I ignored it.
This triggered a spiral of thoughts about how some people neglect self-reflection, repeating decisions that develop into harmful habits over time—habits that impact others. What happens when someone who has neglected introspection for years, maybe their whole life, is finally forced to confront themselves? Their reflection might be so terrifying and hideous that it could metaphorically destroy them. Dramatic? Perhaps. Accurate? Absolutely.
In dreams, lockjaw can symbolize communication barriers, feeling silenced, or struggling to express oneself. I interpreted my dream as a wake-up call—not just to address immediate situations but to tell a compelling story.
This is a story about the consequences of choices on one’s fate, particularly for those who ignore their reflection until it's too late.
This version of cinema will provoke the audience to engage with the providential failure of introspection. This version of cinema will cultivate the discovery of truth and examine a mind that is forced to endure the pain they have inflicted on others. Who doesn’t love a good tale of Karma?
CHARACTERS
Meet Ezra Pierce (Warhol... is that you?), an acclaimed photographer whose work has been celebrated and praised within Hollywood and the NYC art scene for decades. Ezra uses old-fashioned photography methods that don’t necessarily hold up to today’s standards but often gets away with it because of his prestige. Ezra seems to have it all—a beautiful wife, two children, and a successful career as a photographer. However, as the repercussions of his past start surfacing, they create a ricochet effect that comes back to haunt him.
Meet Penelope Rivers, a strikingly gorgeous and determined model from LA striving to establish a career as both an actress and a model. With a strong-headed demeanor and a tenacious spirit, she navigates the cutthroat world of entertainment with fierce determination that sets her apart from the rest. Possessing boldness and bravery, she asserts herself unapologetically, even if it means severing connections. In other words, she will not tolerate anyone's bullshit.
2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)
BUDGET
This production has a fundraising goal of 10K.
By supporting our campaign, you are not only contributing to the creation of our film, but you are also enabling us to showcase the talents of aspiring filmmakers and actors. Your donation will make a significant impact on the success of our project and go directly towards production costs like camera rentals, location fees, and editing.
If you don’t have the means to donate at this time, we kindly ask you to consider sharing our campaign on social media or with friends and family. It will be every bit as helpful to achieve the realization of our vision.
The funds will go towards the following:
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All of the proceeds raised will go directly toward the production and everyone working hard to make this film come to life!
Follow our Instagram page @obscurashortfilm for updates, campaign shoutouts, behind the scenes content, & more.
We have finalized the script and are currently in the pre-production phase, location scouting and auditioning actors. This campaign will help us move the project forward by being able to secure a location, rent reliable equipment, accommodate our cast and crew during the shoot, and help us with distribution/post-production when the time comes.
If our project surpasses our fundraising goal, we plan to put these funds towards distribution and submit to our dream festivals. As independent filmmakers, we are willing to do anything it takes to reach it.
There is no time like the present.
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Crew, cast, & equipment
Costs $3,000
We need to rent equipment to make this short happen and we also want to be able to pay our cast and crew!
Production design & VFX
Costs $2,500
We want our film to look GOOD, so we need to put money into the production design and post-production VFX.
Catering & crafty
Costs $1,500
We’ll have long days on set, so we need to provide enough food to sustain the cast and crew and keep everyone's energy and spirits high!
Locations
Costs $3,000
We need to rent out a photography studio and a parking lot for a few days, and it's not cheap! We are planning to shoot for two different we
Share this update!
About This Team
MEET THE TEAM
Meet our Writer/Director/Producer, Santha Rowles, alongside producers Paige Freeman and Jamie Leuchs-Curtis. This powerful filmmaking trio, based in Los Angeles, graduated from Emerson College with a focus on Visual & Media Arts Production. They have extensive experience not only in producing but also as cinematographers, production designers, grips, script supervisors, PAs, and in other essential roles crucial to running efficient and inclusive sets. Their journey began with numerous film projects, and they are now poised to bring their collective experience, passion, and dedication to their upcoming project. From their film school days in Boston to their careers in Hollywood, this trio is determined to bring their vision to life. With your support, you can help turn their dreams—or nightmares—into reality.
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Shanaya Sales will be playing the supporting role of Penelope Rivers. Shanaya is an actor, model, and poet who recently trained at USC's Stage, Screen and New Media BFA Acting program. Her recent credits include several thesis films at the School of Cinematic Arts at USC and Chapman. Additionally, Shanaya loves being part of the art of bringing music to life, most recently she’s acted in music videos for Offset and Saint Levant. She is devoted to bringing the never-seen-before to the big screen, to tell the stories that remain untold.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
A renowned photographer, Ezra, is in hot water due to his past mistreatment of models during his photo shoots. In recent years, his fame has transformed into infamy, and his once prestigious career now hangs in the balance. In an attempt to salvage his name and reputation, he directs a feminist photo shoot, but things take a dark turn when Ezra candidly expresses his true feelings about the shoot's purpose. As chaos and surreal terror ensue, Ezra's reality unravels before his eyes, leaving behind only haunting echoes of a life once lived.
In this cautionary tale, we will witness a man exposed to the unforgiving and utterly inexplicable lens of truth.
Good Time (2017)
TROPES
OBSCURA revolves around the idea of self-reflection and karma.
Reap What You Sow
The distorted reflections and surreal twists of horror bring Ezra face-to-face with the consequences of his actions, forcing him to be held accountable for the first time.
Karma Houdini
Ezra has been a Karma Houdini his whole life, never truly facing serious consequences for his wrongdoings, consistently evading accountability through fame and power. However, this is the story of how a Karma Houdini is finally proven wrong and receives the punishment he deserves.
Karmic Overkill (or is it?)
Karmic Overkill is when a person's karma goes beyond what is truly deserved. Who ever said the consequences would be equal?
Black Mirror: Season 1, Episode 3 (2011)
TONE/ARTISTIC APPROACH
The tone of the film will be reminiscent of works like Black Mirror or The Twilight Zone, Good Time, and The Disaster Artist—gritty, intense, and absurd, with unpredictable characters akin to those found in a Safdie Brothers' film. Visually, the film will incorporate harsh lighting and claustrophobic, close-up framing when necessary to create a sense of unease. The use of quick cuts and frenetic camera movements will intensify scenes and foster a suspenseful atmosphere. Nothing in this world will feel safe or trustworthy.
Ex Machina (2014)
DIRECTOR’S STATEMENT
It started as a nightmare. I dreamt I was sitting on my couch, watching television, but there was no screen. Instead, I was staring into the lens of a giant camera. My jaw was locked, and I was drooling, staring back at myself in the lens. When I woke up, I felt strange, knowing it clearly had something to do with self-reflection and the choice to re-evaluate my behavior and decisions. Yet, I couldn’t shake the thought of what might happen if I ignored it.
This triggered a spiral of thoughts about how some people neglect self-reflection, repeating decisions that develop into harmful habits over time—habits that impact others. What happens when someone who has neglected introspection for years, maybe their whole life, is finally forced to confront themselves? Their reflection might be so terrifying and hideous that it could metaphorically destroy them. Dramatic? Perhaps. Accurate? Absolutely.
In dreams, lockjaw can symbolize communication barriers, feeling silenced, or struggling to express oneself. I interpreted my dream as a wake-up call—not just to address immediate situations but to tell a compelling story.
This is a story about the consequences of choices on one’s fate, particularly for those who ignore their reflection until it's too late.
This version of cinema will provoke the audience to engage with the providential failure of introspection. This version of cinema will cultivate the discovery of truth and examine a mind that is forced to endure the pain they have inflicted on others. Who doesn’t love a good tale of Karma?
CHARACTERS
Meet Ezra Pierce (Warhol... is that you?), an acclaimed photographer whose work has been celebrated and praised within Hollywood and the NYC art scene for decades. Ezra uses old-fashioned photography methods that don’t necessarily hold up to today’s standards but often gets away with it because of his prestige. Ezra seems to have it all—a beautiful wife, two children, and a successful career as a photographer. However, as the repercussions of his past start surfacing, they create a ricochet effect that comes back to haunt him.
Meet Penelope Rivers, a strikingly gorgeous and determined model from LA striving to establish a career as both an actress and a model. With a strong-headed demeanor and a tenacious spirit, she navigates the cutthroat world of entertainment with fierce determination that sets her apart from the rest. Possessing boldness and bravery, she asserts herself unapologetically, even if it means severing connections. In other words, she will not tolerate anyone's bullshit.
2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)
BUDGET
This production has a fundraising goal of 10K.
By supporting our campaign, you are not only contributing to the creation of our film, but you are also enabling us to showcase the talents of aspiring filmmakers and actors. Your donation will make a significant impact on the success of our project and go directly towards production costs like camera rentals, location fees, and editing.
If you don’t have the means to donate at this time, we kindly ask you to consider sharing our campaign on social media or with friends and family. It will be every bit as helpful to achieve the realization of our vision.
The funds will go towards the following:
All of the proceeds raised will go directly toward the production and everyone working hard to make this film come to life!
Follow our Instagram page @obscurashortfilm for updates, campaign shoutouts, behind the scenes content, & more.
We have finalized the script and are currently in the pre-production phase, location scouting and auditioning actors. This campaign will help us move the project forward by being able to secure a location, rent reliable equipment, accommodate our cast and crew during the shoot, and help us with distribution/post-production when the time comes.
If our project surpasses our fundraising goal, we plan to put these funds towards distribution and submit to our dream festivals. As independent filmmakers, we are willing to do anything it takes to reach it.
There is no time like the present.
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Crew, cast, & equipment
Costs $3,000
We need to rent equipment to make this short happen and we also want to be able to pay our cast and crew!
Production design & VFX
Costs $2,500
We want our film to look GOOD, so we need to put money into the production design and post-production VFX.
Catering & crafty
Costs $1,500
We’ll have long days on set, so we need to provide enough food to sustain the cast and crew and keep everyone's energy and spirits high!
Locations
Costs $3,000
We need to rent out a photography studio and a parking lot for a few days, and it's not cheap! We are planning to shoot for two different we
Share this update!
About This Team
MEET THE TEAM
Meet our Writer/Director/Producer, Santha Rowles, alongside producers Paige Freeman and Jamie Leuchs-Curtis. This powerful filmmaking trio, based in Los Angeles, graduated from Emerson College with a focus on Visual & Media Arts Production. They have extensive experience not only in producing but also as cinematographers, production designers, grips, script supervisors, PAs, and in other essential roles crucial to running efficient and inclusive sets. Their journey began with numerous film projects, and they are now poised to bring their collective experience, passion, and dedication to their upcoming project. From their film school days in Boston to their careers in Hollywood, this trio is determined to bring their vision to life. With your support, you can help turn their dreams—or nightmares—into reality.
Shanaya Sales will be playing the supporting role of Penelope Rivers. Shanaya is an actor, model, and poet who recently trained at USC's Stage, Screen and New Media BFA Acting program. Her recent credits include several thesis films at the School of Cinematic Arts at USC and Chapman. Additionally, Shanaya loves being part of the art of bringing music to life, most recently she’s acted in music videos for Offset and Saint Levant. She is devoted to bringing the never-seen-before to the big screen, to tell the stories that remain untold.