Orange Juice
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | Film Short
Drama, Family
When 14-year-old Clara’s older brother isolates himself from friends and family after a drunk driving accident that killed his best friend, Clara seeks a way to break through to him and ultimately helps him reconnect with a younger, more innocent version of himself.
Orange Juice
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | Film Short
Drama, Family
1 Campaigns | Taitung County, Taiwan
Green Light
This campaign raised $14,590 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
51 supporters | followers
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When 14-year-old Clara’s older brother isolates himself from friends and family after a drunk driving accident that killed his best friend, Clara seeks a way to break through to him and ultimately helps him reconnect with a younger, more innocent version of himself.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
ORANGE JUICE follows a young girl’s attempts to connect with her brother in the aftermath of an unspeakable tragedy. When 14-year-old Clara discovers that her brother is leaving for a rehab facility after a car accident that killed his best friend, Clara seeks a way to repair their relationship and break through to a newer, quieter, colder version of the brother she thought she knew. As she struggles to put the pieces of his accident together and to navigate an unspoken blow to her family's reputation, Clara must learn to be there for her brother because it is what he needs, not what she wants.
One of the first inspirations for ORANGE JUICE was a song of the same name by my favorite artist, Noah Kahan. The song features such striking visuals and compelling characters that it has almost a film-like quality on its own, and I found myself wondering how a child would react in a similar situation to the song's protagonist. My film's universe expands around a similar "Big Bang"—a drunk driving accident—but from the viewpoint of a 14-year-old girl struggling to piece together details of her brother's story that are withheld from her. It is an untimely coming-of-age story as much as it is a family drama and an exploration of unvoiced grief. In centering 14-year-old Clara as the protagonist of a story about her older brother’s trauma, I hoped to emulate some of my favorite child’s-eye view stories, from LOVE ACCORDING TO DALVA to AFTERSUN to THE FLORIDA PROJECT.
Throughout the drafting process, this has become a deeply personal story, marked by echoes of my own life experiences and those of my loved ones. This is a film about empathy, about the importance of perspective, and about the things we do to connect with each other when the world has turned upside down.
We are shooting the film in Philadelphia for three days at the end of May. Our producing team has been hard at work scouting locations, hiring cast and crew members, preparing props and costumes, and finding creative ways to stretch our humble indie budget to create the best possible product and best possible experience for everyone on set.
That's where you come in! We're looking to raise $15,000 for principal photography but hopefully more to get us through post-production and onto the festival circuit. Your contributions will go toward wages, travel, and food for our cast and crew, as well as location fees, production design, insurance, and equipment rentals. A more complete breakdown of our production expenses may be found in the "Wishlist" tab.
Once post-production is completed, the film will go on the festival circuit where we hope to play in film festivals around the world and eventually end up on a streaming service or cable network like Netflix, Vimeo, or Xfinity—much like the film SHALLOW POCKETS, which I co-wrote and produced alongside students from Parkway Center City Middle College in Philadelphia. While ORANGE JUICE will not be available to the public until it has finished its festival run, all of our backers on Seed&Spark will get advance access to the film along with an exclusive BTS package.
Shooting a film can be unpredictable, but we will always have a plan B and plan C in place so that we are prepared to overcome obstacles like weather, illness, location issues, losing cast or crew members, and other events. I am beyond impressed with the passion and diligence of our cast and crew already, and I am confident that we will be prepared to overcome any challenges that may come our way.
If you would like to support the film in any other way, please reach out! That could mean providing a location in Philadelphia, equipment, or even food for our hungry cast and crew. :) Any little bit of support helps as we work to turn our collective vision for this story into a reality.
Here are some quick captions that you can use to show your support for ORANGE JUICE on social media. Feel free to copy & paste!
Help filmmaker Erin Brennan by supporting her short drama film ORANGE JUICE @orangejuiceshortfilm about a fourteen year old girl's efforts to connect with her older brother before he leaves for rehab. Join them on @seedandspark: seedandspark.com/fund/orange-juice
One part coming-of-age story, one part family drama about addiction, ORANGE JUICE @orangejuiceshortfilm deftly navigates the emotional fallout from a tragic accident. Support the film on @seedandspark: seedandspark.com/fund/orange-juice
I'm so excited to see the new short film ORANGE JUICE @orangejuiceshortfilm, shot in Philadelphia with a team of Philly-based creators! Support them on @seedandspark: seedandspark.com/fund/orange-juice
Share our fundraising QR code:
Please follow project updates on Instagram at @orangejuiceshortfilm, and share our posts/stories to spread the word! Thanks so much for supporting ORANGE JUICE!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Equipment Rentals
Costs $2,300
We are renting lighting equipment from Expressway Cinema Rentals in Philadelphia.
Cast
Costs $1,200
We will ensure that all cast members receive a fair wage for their work on set.
Crew
Costs $5,900
We will ensure that all crew members receive a fair wage for their work on set.
Craft Services
Costs $1,000
To keep our cast and crew fed during long shoot days!
Production Insurance
Costs $1,000
For the protection of our cast and crew, we must insure our production against any accidents.
Travel Expenses
Costs $1,200
Costs for transporting cast/crew to three locations, and to rent equipment truck.
Production Design
Costs $400
Set design, props, wardrobe, and everything else that goes into constructing the world of our film!
Contingency Funding
Costs $2,000
This is to cover unexpected location expenses, permit fees, extra days of filming, etc.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Erin Brennan, Writer/Director
Erin Brennan is a graduating senior at the University of Pennsylvania, where she has coordinated 10 short film productions as a former president of Bent Button Productions. Her films SKIN and NIGHTCALL played at high school film festivals across the country, and she also assistant directed Focus International Film Festival and Venice Shorts official selection SMOKE BREAK (directed by Amber Akhtar). She most recently worked with Philadelphia high school students to produce their short film SHALLOW POCKETS, co-produced award-winning director Scott Burkhardt's short film EXUVIA (currently in post-production), and assistant directed Harold Batista's VAMOS, GUSTAVO. Erin is also a writer of subtle family dramas and winner of the Phi Kappa Sigma Fiction Prize for her short story "Vanishing Act."
Vadim Egoul, Producer
Vadim Egoul was born in Kazakhstan and raised in Philadelphia. He directed, wrote and produced the short film WICKS, which won the Audience Award for Best Narrative Short at the 2021 Coronado Island Film Festival and played at other festivals across the U.S.
His latest short film, LOOKING UP, is a coming-of-age story of a Russian immigrant teen in mid-2000s Philadelphia. It will premiere at the 2023 Big Apple Film Festival.
Currently living in New York, Vadim serves as a co-leader of the Manhattan chapter of the nonprofit independent filmmaker collective, Filmshop.
Paola Camacho, Producer
Paola Camacho is an undergraduate student at the University of Pennsylvania, studying Cinema & Media Studies and Communications as a double-Major. Energized as a Colombian-American woman passionate about bringing her background to her creative work, she is a writer and filmmaker. With an interest in creative development, production, and community-organizing, she is ecstatic to be producing Erin Brennan’s “Orange Juice”!
Sara LoCasale as "Clara"
Sara LoCasale is a 14-year-old child actor who was born and raised in NJ to Filipino and Italian American parents. She started acting in 2021 and has since appeared in several short films, including PESTLE (directed by award-winning director Sophie Nobler). She most recently can be found as the lead in award-winning director Scott Burkhardt’s short film EXUVIA (currently in post-production). Other short films include BEST FUTURE FRIEND (directed by Samara Cohen) and IRRATIONAL (directed by award-winning director Jake Wichansky). She can’t wait to work with Erin Brennan and her crew again and help bring Clara and the world of ORANGE JUICE to life. Sara is currently signed by Take 3 Talent Agency in New York.
Jason Yanto as "Teddy"
Jason Yanto is a proud Filipino-American actor, singer, and songwriter. Born in Manila, he began his training at the acclaimed Center for Pop Music Studio. A graduate of Montclair State University, he created Live in Living Color, a student-run coalition for the betterment of performers of color within the Musical Theater program, and the Broadway industry at large. Select credits - Harold (Dog Man: the Musical), Nelson (Welcome to Arroyo’s), Bride (Titanic), Jack (Reefer Madness), Man of La Mancha (Swing). Check out his music, streaming now on all platforms!
Yuko Torihara as "Angela"
Yuko is a Tokyo-born filmmaker/writer/actor based in NYC. She grew up traveling between Japan, US and the UK and storytelling has been a natural way to make sense of her constantly changing environment. In 2012 she co-opened the New York office of the Brazilian production studio Santa Transmedia where she produced animation and artist-led brand collaboration films. Her short documentary CHINATOWN BEAT about novelist Henry Chang and photographer Corky Lee was acquired and published in The New Yorker in March 2021. She became a Sundance Humanities Sustainability Fellow ‘22-’23 with her first feature film. As an actor, she has a recurring role on Ryan Murphy’s Netflix series "The Watcher," and has voiced and starred in national campaigns for brands including Starbucks, Citibank, Delta, Verizon. She has a bachelors in Comparative Literature from the University of Pennsylvania.
Marcos Gonzalez as "John"
Marcos Gonzalez was born in the Dominican Republic and raised in Spanish Harlem in NYC where he was immersed into the culture and lifestyle of the Hispanic heritage there. He first started acting at a very young age in school plays which he enjoyed very much.
Marcos was also at a very young age driven into music, especially into Latin rhythms, influenced by one of his older brothers who played professionally, Later he discovered a talent for the guitar and eventually began collaborating with a Spanish rock band, but songwriting is what really stuck with him writing different styles of music mostly ballads and Spanish rock love songs. He does love performing in front of an audience (live or virtual).
By the end of 2010 Marcos was introduced once again into acting and rediscovered his true passion for the art. He has been focusing on film and television, though he also hopes to expand into theater as well. He performs in both Spanish and English easily, you can find most of his work on IMDb as Marcos A Gonzalez.
He is extremely professional and serious about his work. He enjoys working with teams of fellow actors & crew and does his part to make the work both enjoyable and successful.
Marc D. Johnson, Jr. as "Nigel"
Marc D. Johnson, Jr. is a Philadelphia native who aspires to entertain, enlighten, and educate. He loves creating artwork that not only speaks directly to the hearts & souls of people, but also encourages them to think about who they are both as individuals and as members of the greater collective.
Amber Pavlou as "Patti (Mrs. Price)"
Amber has been acting through the last 3 decades with a mix of film, stage, sketch comedy, voice over, and commercial experience. Originally from Scranton, PA she now lives and works in the greater NY/Philadelphia area where she’s honed her craft in both cities, as well as with notable instructors nationwide. With her first passion being the theater, she was most recently seen gracing the stage of the Somerset Valley Playhouse as Martha Arable in Charlotte’s Web and continues to seek opportunities both in front of the camera and on-stage. With a background in advertising, graphic design, cake decorating, party planning, and a mom of 3 she comes jam-packed with life experience to every role she plays.
Nikanor Kuroedov as "James"
Nikanor was born in Brooklyn, NY, USA in 2017. He is the fourth child in the family. He has 1 sister and 3 brothers. His sister and two of his brothers are talents. Nikanor and his family are based in NY/NJ. Nikanor started attending acting school and improv comedy classes when he was 6 years old. Shortly after starting lessons, he landed a few commercials and short films. Nikanor is talented athletically and his favorite sports include gymnastics, swimming, martial arts (boxing, sambo), hockey, ice skating, and dancing. When he is not being a full time kid living his best life, Nikanor loves bringing his diverse experiences and interests to the characters he brings to life on screen.
Alex Sulock, 1st Assistant Director
Alex Sulock is a senior at NYU Tisch studying film. He wrote and directed the short films “Out of Focus” and “Pricks of Sensation” which are streaming on Nobudge.com. He has AD’d short films from Texas to the Czech Republic. He DP’d the film “Picnic in Grass” which premiere at the First Run Film Festival. As an AD he prioritizes facilitating creativity and realistic ambition, ensuring the film is finished on time while balancing the artistic needs of a production.
Jen Low, 1st Assistant Director
Jen Low is an emerging film producer, and a student at Temple University in Philadelphia, PA. She majors in Film and Media Arts with a concentration in producing, and minors in Digital Media Engagement. Previous experience includes producing for both undergraduate and graduate works, as well as assistant directing for an independent series. Jen has also worked as a social media and content creation intern. Always prepared and willing to learn, Jen is passionate about helping to create films that are meaningful and true to the human experience.
Jalen Ramseur-Williams, Director of Photography
Jalen Ramseur-Williams is a freelance cinematographer based in Philadelphia, bringing a raw and cinematic vision to films. A graduate from The Philadelphia High School for The Creative & Performing Arts with a major in Media, Design Television & Video (MDTV). Currently attending Temple University as a Junior where he majors in Film and Media Arts, with a concentration in cinematography. A continuous learner, with a passion to create, collaborate and provide thought-provoking films now and in the future.
Aidan McErlean, 2nd Camera Operator
Aidan is a freelance cinematographer/gaffer originally from South Jersey. Currently in the cinematography track at Temple University, he loves naturalistic shooting as well as using anamorphics for their distinct style. His passions are rooted in clothing and music, but overall he just hopes to connect with his audience emotionally while also allowing them to take a little break from everyday life.
Colleen Mulville, 1st Assistant Camera
Colleen Mulville works as a Philadelphia-based assistant camera. They graduated from Temple University in the fall of 2021 where they concentrated in Cinematography. After graduation, Colleen worked at Expressway as a camera technician and just recently went full-time as a freelancer. They are super excited to be a part of this project and to work with an amazing cast and crew!
Sean Park, 2nd Assistant Camera
Sean is an undergraduate at the University of Pennsylvania studying Neuroscience and Cinema and Media Studies on the premed track. His passion for filmmaking began in high school, and he has written, directed, and shot a number of award-winning short films over the past three years with genres ranging from documentary, thriller, to comedy. He specializes in camera work and post-production and has worked as DP on set as well as editor for his friends’ projects and his own. Sean hopes to continue working on vibrant sets like OJ and is planning on producing larger scale projects of his own.
Victoria Wilcox, Gaffer
Victoria Wilcox is a freelance photographer (via Torian Studios) and filmmaker studying in the BFA Narrative Directing program at Temple University. Over the past academic year, Victoria has specialized in G&E and Gaffing, and was awarded "Best Lighting" for her work in the award-winning short film SIMMER, in the Diamond Screen Film Festival. Victoria has worked for companies such as REC Philly, Comcast, Parade Inc, and more, and continues to grow her hybrid career in photography and film.
Kent Ichikawa, Key Grip
Kent Ichikawa is a fourth year FMA major at Temple University and a freelance cinematographer and editor from Tokyo, currently based in Philadelphia. He has a passion for visual storytelling, constantly evolving as an artist in pursuit of a future career as a cinematographer.
Jabril Davis, Swing Grip
Jabril Davis is an experienced Freelance Creative Media Artist with a 360º solid technical background in Photo, Video and Audio Production. Born and raised in Philadelphia. As a filmmaker of the new age, he works on Direction, Cinematography, Video Editing, Still & Motion Graphics as well as Pre & Post Audio-Production positions. Jabril has a strong passion for gaining and sharing knowledge in all fields of the arts and for collaborating with others to bring stories to life.
Tyrone Zhang, Production Designer/Wardrobe Stylist
Tyrone Zhang is a costume and production designer currently based in Philadelphia and New York. He has worked with numerous genres from costuming realistic, modern high schoolers in a drama to creating portals in a magical realism short. With an excellent understanding of character, Tyrone expresses emotions through color, wardrobe, and art. Currently in Temple University's film and media arts program, Tyrone is passionate to learn, create, and collaborate to bring characters and worlds to life.
Quinn Bobbitt, Makeup Artist
Quinn Bobbitt is a makeup artist, in her senior year as theater design student. She has worked on several short films including, SLEEP DEMON, INKBLOT, and TO KEEP YOUR VITAL ORGANS WARM. As well as designed the makeup for two Temple University main stage productions and one BYFY production. She also works at ESP's Halloweens Nights haunted house as a special effects makeup artist.
Paige Dendunnen, Set Decorator/Production Assistant
Paige Dendunnen is a 2023 graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, where she studied Psychology with minors in Chemistry and Classical Studies. Throughout her time at Penn, she worked on several student films as everything from the Production Manager, Director of Art, and Assistant Editor to a Production Assistant. She served as an actor in several other shorts and an upcoming feature film before ultimately deciding she prefers to be on the other side of the camera, with her passion being specifically in screenwriting.
Dominic Zappalla, Production Sound Mixer
Amber Akhtar, Script Supervisor
Amber Akhtar is a New York based filmmaker who grew up in Michigan. She just finished up her BFA in Dramatic Writing with a minor in Producing at NYU Tisch. During her time at NYU, she wrote two features, many short films, and worked on a thesis film selected for Tribeca 2022. She has interned for companies such as The Gotham Film and TV, Cinetic Media, and The Producers Guild. Currently, she is executive producing a short film that she wrote about a young girl struggling to was out a stain of blood while processing a recent abortion. In her spare time, Amber loves being outside, working out, and eating yummy food.
Lilian Liu, Graphic Designer/Production Assistant
Lilian Liu is a current student at the University of Pennsylvania double majoring in Physics and Fine Arts. She has a range of experience working in design and animation, and has a secret love of storytelling. In her free time she enjoys illustration and fantasizing about directing her own animated projects.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
ORANGE JUICE follows a young girl’s attempts to connect with her brother in the aftermath of an unspeakable tragedy. When 14-year-old Clara discovers that her brother is leaving for a rehab facility after a car accident that killed his best friend, Clara seeks a way to repair their relationship and break through to a newer, quieter, colder version of the brother she thought she knew. As she struggles to put the pieces of his accident together and to navigate an unspoken blow to her family's reputation, Clara must learn to be there for her brother because it is what he needs, not what she wants.
One of the first inspirations for ORANGE JUICE was a song of the same name by my favorite artist, Noah Kahan. The song features such striking visuals and compelling characters that it has almost a film-like quality on its own, and I found myself wondering how a child would react in a similar situation to the song's protagonist. My film's universe expands around a similar "Big Bang"—a drunk driving accident—but from the viewpoint of a 14-year-old girl struggling to piece together details of her brother's story that are withheld from her. It is an untimely coming-of-age story as much as it is a family drama and an exploration of unvoiced grief. In centering 14-year-old Clara as the protagonist of a story about her older brother’s trauma, I hoped to emulate some of my favorite child’s-eye view stories, from LOVE ACCORDING TO DALVA to AFTERSUN to THE FLORIDA PROJECT.
Throughout the drafting process, this has become a deeply personal story, marked by echoes of my own life experiences and those of my loved ones. This is a film about empathy, about the importance of perspective, and about the things we do to connect with each other when the world has turned upside down.
We are shooting the film in Philadelphia for three days at the end of May. Our producing team has been hard at work scouting locations, hiring cast and crew members, preparing props and costumes, and finding creative ways to stretch our humble indie budget to create the best possible product and best possible experience for everyone on set.
That's where you come in! We're looking to raise $15,000 for principal photography but hopefully more to get us through post-production and onto the festival circuit. Your contributions will go toward wages, travel, and food for our cast and crew, as well as location fees, production design, insurance, and equipment rentals. A more complete breakdown of our production expenses may be found in the "Wishlist" tab.
Once post-production is completed, the film will go on the festival circuit where we hope to play in film festivals around the world and eventually end up on a streaming service or cable network like Netflix, Vimeo, or Xfinity—much like the film SHALLOW POCKETS, which I co-wrote and produced alongside students from Parkway Center City Middle College in Philadelphia. While ORANGE JUICE will not be available to the public until it has finished its festival run, all of our backers on Seed&Spark will get advance access to the film along with an exclusive BTS package.
Shooting a film can be unpredictable, but we will always have a plan B and plan C in place so that we are prepared to overcome obstacles like weather, illness, location issues, losing cast or crew members, and other events. I am beyond impressed with the passion and diligence of our cast and crew already, and I am confident that we will be prepared to overcome any challenges that may come our way.
If you would like to support the film in any other way, please reach out! That could mean providing a location in Philadelphia, equipment, or even food for our hungry cast and crew. :) Any little bit of support helps as we work to turn our collective vision for this story into a reality.
Here are some quick captions that you can use to show your support for ORANGE JUICE on social media. Feel free to copy & paste!
Help filmmaker Erin Brennan by supporting her short drama film ORANGE JUICE @orangejuiceshortfilm about a fourteen year old girl's efforts to connect with her older brother before he leaves for rehab. Join them on @seedandspark: seedandspark.com/fund/orange-juice
One part coming-of-age story, one part family drama about addiction, ORANGE JUICE @orangejuiceshortfilm deftly navigates the emotional fallout from a tragic accident. Support the film on @seedandspark: seedandspark.com/fund/orange-juice
I'm so excited to see the new short film ORANGE JUICE @orangejuiceshortfilm, shot in Philadelphia with a team of Philly-based creators! Support them on @seedandspark: seedandspark.com/fund/orange-juice
Share our fundraising QR code:
Please follow project updates on Instagram at @orangejuiceshortfilm, and share our posts/stories to spread the word! Thanks so much for supporting ORANGE JUICE!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Equipment Rentals
Costs $2,300
We are renting lighting equipment from Expressway Cinema Rentals in Philadelphia.
Cast
Costs $1,200
We will ensure that all cast members receive a fair wage for their work on set.
Crew
Costs $5,900
We will ensure that all crew members receive a fair wage for their work on set.
Craft Services
Costs $1,000
To keep our cast and crew fed during long shoot days!
Production Insurance
Costs $1,000
For the protection of our cast and crew, we must insure our production against any accidents.
Travel Expenses
Costs $1,200
Costs for transporting cast/crew to three locations, and to rent equipment truck.
Production Design
Costs $400
Set design, props, wardrobe, and everything else that goes into constructing the world of our film!
Contingency Funding
Costs $2,000
This is to cover unexpected location expenses, permit fees, extra days of filming, etc.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Erin Brennan, Writer/Director
Erin Brennan is a graduating senior at the University of Pennsylvania, where she has coordinated 10 short film productions as a former president of Bent Button Productions. Her films SKIN and NIGHTCALL played at high school film festivals across the country, and she also assistant directed Focus International Film Festival and Venice Shorts official selection SMOKE BREAK (directed by Amber Akhtar). She most recently worked with Philadelphia high school students to produce their short film SHALLOW POCKETS, co-produced award-winning director Scott Burkhardt's short film EXUVIA (currently in post-production), and assistant directed Harold Batista's VAMOS, GUSTAVO. Erin is also a writer of subtle family dramas and winner of the Phi Kappa Sigma Fiction Prize for her short story "Vanishing Act."
Vadim Egoul, Producer
Vadim Egoul was born in Kazakhstan and raised in Philadelphia. He directed, wrote and produced the short film WICKS, which won the Audience Award for Best Narrative Short at the 2021 Coronado Island Film Festival and played at other festivals across the U.S.
His latest short film, LOOKING UP, is a coming-of-age story of a Russian immigrant teen in mid-2000s Philadelphia. It will premiere at the 2023 Big Apple Film Festival.
Currently living in New York, Vadim serves as a co-leader of the Manhattan chapter of the nonprofit independent filmmaker collective, Filmshop.
Paola Camacho, Producer
Paola Camacho is an undergraduate student at the University of Pennsylvania, studying Cinema & Media Studies and Communications as a double-Major. Energized as a Colombian-American woman passionate about bringing her background to her creative work, she is a writer and filmmaker. With an interest in creative development, production, and community-organizing, she is ecstatic to be producing Erin Brennan’s “Orange Juice”!
Sara LoCasale as "Clara"
Sara LoCasale is a 14-year-old child actor who was born and raised in NJ to Filipino and Italian American parents. She started acting in 2021 and has since appeared in several short films, including PESTLE (directed by award-winning director Sophie Nobler). She most recently can be found as the lead in award-winning director Scott Burkhardt’s short film EXUVIA (currently in post-production). Other short films include BEST FUTURE FRIEND (directed by Samara Cohen) and IRRATIONAL (directed by award-winning director Jake Wichansky). She can’t wait to work with Erin Brennan and her crew again and help bring Clara and the world of ORANGE JUICE to life. Sara is currently signed by Take 3 Talent Agency in New York.
Jason Yanto as "Teddy"
Jason Yanto is a proud Filipino-American actor, singer, and songwriter. Born in Manila, he began his training at the acclaimed Center for Pop Music Studio. A graduate of Montclair State University, he created Live in Living Color, a student-run coalition for the betterment of performers of color within the Musical Theater program, and the Broadway industry at large. Select credits - Harold (Dog Man: the Musical), Nelson (Welcome to Arroyo’s), Bride (Titanic), Jack (Reefer Madness), Man of La Mancha (Swing). Check out his music, streaming now on all platforms!
Yuko Torihara as "Angela"
Yuko is a Tokyo-born filmmaker/writer/actor based in NYC. She grew up traveling between Japan, US and the UK and storytelling has been a natural way to make sense of her constantly changing environment. In 2012 she co-opened the New York office of the Brazilian production studio Santa Transmedia where she produced animation and artist-led brand collaboration films. Her short documentary CHINATOWN BEAT about novelist Henry Chang and photographer Corky Lee was acquired and published in The New Yorker in March 2021. She became a Sundance Humanities Sustainability Fellow ‘22-’23 with her first feature film. As an actor, she has a recurring role on Ryan Murphy’s Netflix series "The Watcher," and has voiced and starred in national campaigns for brands including Starbucks, Citibank, Delta, Verizon. She has a bachelors in Comparative Literature from the University of Pennsylvania.
Marcos Gonzalez as "John"
Marcos Gonzalez was born in the Dominican Republic and raised in Spanish Harlem in NYC where he was immersed into the culture and lifestyle of the Hispanic heritage there. He first started acting at a very young age in school plays which he enjoyed very much.
Marcos was also at a very young age driven into music, especially into Latin rhythms, influenced by one of his older brothers who played professionally, Later he discovered a talent for the guitar and eventually began collaborating with a Spanish rock band, but songwriting is what really stuck with him writing different styles of music mostly ballads and Spanish rock love songs. He does love performing in front of an audience (live or virtual).
By the end of 2010 Marcos was introduced once again into acting and rediscovered his true passion for the art. He has been focusing on film and television, though he also hopes to expand into theater as well. He performs in both Spanish and English easily, you can find most of his work on IMDb as Marcos A Gonzalez.
He is extremely professional and serious about his work. He enjoys working with teams of fellow actors & crew and does his part to make the work both enjoyable and successful.
Marc D. Johnson, Jr. as "Nigel"
Marc D. Johnson, Jr. is a Philadelphia native who aspires to entertain, enlighten, and educate. He loves creating artwork that not only speaks directly to the hearts & souls of people, but also encourages them to think about who they are both as individuals and as members of the greater collective.
Amber Pavlou as "Patti (Mrs. Price)"
Amber has been acting through the last 3 decades with a mix of film, stage, sketch comedy, voice over, and commercial experience. Originally from Scranton, PA she now lives and works in the greater NY/Philadelphia area where she’s honed her craft in both cities, as well as with notable instructors nationwide. With her first passion being the theater, she was most recently seen gracing the stage of the Somerset Valley Playhouse as Martha Arable in Charlotte’s Web and continues to seek opportunities both in front of the camera and on-stage. With a background in advertising, graphic design, cake decorating, party planning, and a mom of 3 she comes jam-packed with life experience to every role she plays.
Nikanor Kuroedov as "James"
Nikanor was born in Brooklyn, NY, USA in 2017. He is the fourth child in the family. He has 1 sister and 3 brothers. His sister and two of his brothers are talents. Nikanor and his family are based in NY/NJ. Nikanor started attending acting school and improv comedy classes when he was 6 years old. Shortly after starting lessons, he landed a few commercials and short films. Nikanor is talented athletically and his favorite sports include gymnastics, swimming, martial arts (boxing, sambo), hockey, ice skating, and dancing. When he is not being a full time kid living his best life, Nikanor loves bringing his diverse experiences and interests to the characters he brings to life on screen.
Alex Sulock, 1st Assistant Director
Alex Sulock is a senior at NYU Tisch studying film. He wrote and directed the short films “Out of Focus” and “Pricks of Sensation” which are streaming on Nobudge.com. He has AD’d short films from Texas to the Czech Republic. He DP’d the film “Picnic in Grass” which premiere at the First Run Film Festival. As an AD he prioritizes facilitating creativity and realistic ambition, ensuring the film is finished on time while balancing the artistic needs of a production.
Jen Low, 1st Assistant Director
Jen Low is an emerging film producer, and a student at Temple University in Philadelphia, PA. She majors in Film and Media Arts with a concentration in producing, and minors in Digital Media Engagement. Previous experience includes producing for both undergraduate and graduate works, as well as assistant directing for an independent series. Jen has also worked as a social media and content creation intern. Always prepared and willing to learn, Jen is passionate about helping to create films that are meaningful and true to the human experience.
Jalen Ramseur-Williams, Director of Photography
Jalen Ramseur-Williams is a freelance cinematographer based in Philadelphia, bringing a raw and cinematic vision to films. A graduate from The Philadelphia High School for The Creative & Performing Arts with a major in Media, Design Television & Video (MDTV). Currently attending Temple University as a Junior where he majors in Film and Media Arts, with a concentration in cinematography. A continuous learner, with a passion to create, collaborate and provide thought-provoking films now and in the future.
Aidan McErlean, 2nd Camera Operator
Aidan is a freelance cinematographer/gaffer originally from South Jersey. Currently in the cinematography track at Temple University, he loves naturalistic shooting as well as using anamorphics for their distinct style. His passions are rooted in clothing and music, but overall he just hopes to connect with his audience emotionally while also allowing them to take a little break from everyday life.
Colleen Mulville, 1st Assistant Camera
Colleen Mulville works as a Philadelphia-based assistant camera. They graduated from Temple University in the fall of 2021 where they concentrated in Cinematography. After graduation, Colleen worked at Expressway as a camera technician and just recently went full-time as a freelancer. They are super excited to be a part of this project and to work with an amazing cast and crew!
Sean Park, 2nd Assistant Camera
Sean is an undergraduate at the University of Pennsylvania studying Neuroscience and Cinema and Media Studies on the premed track. His passion for filmmaking began in high school, and he has written, directed, and shot a number of award-winning short films over the past three years with genres ranging from documentary, thriller, to comedy. He specializes in camera work and post-production and has worked as DP on set as well as editor for his friends’ projects and his own. Sean hopes to continue working on vibrant sets like OJ and is planning on producing larger scale projects of his own.
Victoria Wilcox, Gaffer
Victoria Wilcox is a freelance photographer (via Torian Studios) and filmmaker studying in the BFA Narrative Directing program at Temple University. Over the past academic year, Victoria has specialized in G&E and Gaffing, and was awarded "Best Lighting" for her work in the award-winning short film SIMMER, in the Diamond Screen Film Festival. Victoria has worked for companies such as REC Philly, Comcast, Parade Inc, and more, and continues to grow her hybrid career in photography and film.
Kent Ichikawa, Key Grip
Kent Ichikawa is a fourth year FMA major at Temple University and a freelance cinematographer and editor from Tokyo, currently based in Philadelphia. He has a passion for visual storytelling, constantly evolving as an artist in pursuit of a future career as a cinematographer.
Jabril Davis, Swing Grip
Jabril Davis is an experienced Freelance Creative Media Artist with a 360º solid technical background in Photo, Video and Audio Production. Born and raised in Philadelphia. As a filmmaker of the new age, he works on Direction, Cinematography, Video Editing, Still & Motion Graphics as well as Pre & Post Audio-Production positions. Jabril has a strong passion for gaining and sharing knowledge in all fields of the arts and for collaborating with others to bring stories to life.
Tyrone Zhang, Production Designer/Wardrobe Stylist
Tyrone Zhang is a costume and production designer currently based in Philadelphia and New York. He has worked with numerous genres from costuming realistic, modern high schoolers in a drama to creating portals in a magical realism short. With an excellent understanding of character, Tyrone expresses emotions through color, wardrobe, and art. Currently in Temple University's film and media arts program, Tyrone is passionate to learn, create, and collaborate to bring characters and worlds to life.
Quinn Bobbitt, Makeup Artist
Quinn Bobbitt is a makeup artist, in her senior year as theater design student. She has worked on several short films including, SLEEP DEMON, INKBLOT, and TO KEEP YOUR VITAL ORGANS WARM. As well as designed the makeup for two Temple University main stage productions and one BYFY production. She also works at ESP's Halloweens Nights haunted house as a special effects makeup artist.
Paige Dendunnen, Set Decorator/Production Assistant
Paige Dendunnen is a 2023 graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, where she studied Psychology with minors in Chemistry and Classical Studies. Throughout her time at Penn, she worked on several student films as everything from the Production Manager, Director of Art, and Assistant Editor to a Production Assistant. She served as an actor in several other shorts and an upcoming feature film before ultimately deciding she prefers to be on the other side of the camera, with her passion being specifically in screenwriting.
Dominic Zappalla, Production Sound Mixer
Amber Akhtar, Script Supervisor
Amber Akhtar is a New York based filmmaker who grew up in Michigan. She just finished up her BFA in Dramatic Writing with a minor in Producing at NYU Tisch. During her time at NYU, she wrote two features, many short films, and worked on a thesis film selected for Tribeca 2022. She has interned for companies such as The Gotham Film and TV, Cinetic Media, and The Producers Guild. Currently, she is executive producing a short film that she wrote about a young girl struggling to was out a stain of blood while processing a recent abortion. In her spare time, Amber loves being outside, working out, and eating yummy food.
Lilian Liu, Graphic Designer/Production Assistant
Lilian Liu is a current student at the University of Pennsylvania double majoring in Physics and Fine Arts. She has a range of experience working in design and animation, and has a secret love of storytelling. In her free time she enjoys illustration and fantasizing about directing her own animated projects.