PARI LETO a short film
Calgary, Canada | Film Short
Thriller, Drama
More so than ever, we are challenged daily, to choose to listen or not to listen, feel connected to or not, feel spiritual or not. Belief in a divine power, have a sense of purpose... the list goes on. What if all you had was your belief? What would you do, to defend it?
PARI LETO a short film
Calgary, Canada | Film Short
Thriller, Drama
1 Campaigns | Alberta, Canada
Green Light
This campaign raised C$5,529 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
26 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
More so than ever, we are challenged daily, to choose to listen or not to listen, feel connected to or not, feel spiritual or not. Belief in a divine power, have a sense of purpose... the list goes on. What if all you had was your belief? What would you do, to defend it?
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Faith. A belief in something for which there is no proof.
In our every-day lives, some find it challenging to remain faithful to their beliefs, to their religion, or spirituality and/or to their god. Many who put their faith in a divine being, call on that god in times of need.
But what if, that belief is pushed to an unmeasurable extreme? What if the end of the world as you know it has come. What if, the dead rose from the grave and ate your wife, or aunt, or brother, or child? Do you still believe in god’s plan?
For those who do not believe god gave us life and everything around us, this end of the world scenario sounds like it’s just another day. That the world is just spinning and it’s probably “man’s” fault for putting too many chemicals on our food and now the dead are coming to life and eating the rest of us.
But when there is still generosity in the world. When there are still people helping each other. And when people come together in solidarity and good will toward each other. Do you still deny the possibility that there could be something more than this world, than this existence?
John still believes in his god’s plan and in the purpose his god has for him. He still prays every morning and many more times during the day than he used to. Despite the world collapsing around him, he still has faith.
Thomas on the other hand, has survived and will continue to survive from one day to the next. He knows the people in this secluded camp need his skills with a rifle. And shooting one zombie today, means one less zombie tomorrow.
John would give anything to bring Thomas to the light and show him that god’s plan has brought them together. That these skills are gifts and to cherish this community they are a part of. But Thomas would give anything for some peace and quiet.
Whether you believe or not, few of us can deny the importance of community and that it takes a village for life to thrive. But, none of us know what it’s like to wake up to a zombie apocalypse. How would your faith stand?
It would be easy to put the film in a dystopian and dark landscape of death and despair. But the contrast between the two characters lends itself to be much more. Therefore, the trees are still full, the grass still grows, the birds still sing. It’s only the dead that are walking. The earth lives on and continues to provide for this community. A hearty garden and plenty of scrap wood for the fire. Only, be sure to keep your head about you and ALWAYS make sure the Guardsmen on the watch towers know you’re there.
Mike Kasper is one talented Designer to watch out for. He may be fairly new to the role, but he is quickly gaining experience as has started his own prop house, so we’re in great hands!
Amanda Tozser is our Makeup Artist, with years of film and special event makeup experience.
Marta Styler is our Costume Designer, bringing decades of experience from modern to period to the wildly imaginative.
The Village meets The Book of Eli while walking through the Land of the Dead
The film could take place just about anywhere in world, but it will be shot just outside of Calgary, Alberta. The setting is dense forest, surrounded by a swift river and a small meadow that will be the garden for the living. The location will also lend challenges, as the road to get there could make a believer out of anyone.
A stretch goal, for this oasis. It has everything we could dream for, but at a pretty price. Doubling our target would secure this location for us!
So, you're a zombie wandering lifelessly through life...
and you stumble onto our characters
JOHN (centre left)
He would rather sit you down and pray for your soul. Tell you a story about loss and how his faith is stronger than ever.
THOMAS (centre right)
You won't even hear the shot. He's no nonsense and will not hesitate to take you out with his sniper rifle.
MARY (left)
Peace and love man. Have some tea, do some needlepoint, but if you try to eat her brain, it would be a doily she's crocheting.
EVE (right)
Silent but deadly. She almost enjoys the kill.
Why us? Why now?
This is a study on our society
... today and to watch lengths we, as individuals, will go to defend our believes - or challenge the status quo. Who dare to ask questions, instead of just excepting what we're told is true.
To Believe or Not to Believe
... is a question we, in our humanity, have often ask ourselves. I've heard it said, it isn't so important in what you believe, but that you believe. Believe in our humanity, a community, family, or friendship. To feel connected and part of something bigger than what we are as individuals, in a society, is critical to our survival and to our future.
Adapting a graphic novel about a zombie
... apocalypse was never on my radar. In fact, neither of those things are high on my go-to list of things to do when I’m home alone and the power goes out. However, the opportunity to bring these two people to life sounded exceptionally challenging and I am thrilled about it. These are two very different and complex individuals. Expanding and studying many aspects about their new way of life, will be a feast for the senses, in a new spin on the genre.
Your gift will bring this compelling story to life and challenge your faith.
Is it strong enough?
Is your conviction true?
Would you die for it?
Would you kill for it?
BIG PLAN
Currently scheduled for filming the weekend of Sep 20th, one day prep, 2-day shoot
Target goal for the funds raised will go to paying minimal honorariums, equipment rentals and food.
THE STRETCH
We will increase our salaries beyond just an honorarium to meet the level of our industry union and guild rates. THEN... more elaborate digital effects that elevate the level of practical effects we're currently limited to.
There is an additional scene in the graphic novel that wouldn't be possible without significant investment in time and money to pull off. But, it is a very impactful moment that further elaborates on the characteristics oof these two people. And more zombies!
The location of our dreams is an oasis, but costly. We can do fine with less, but the opportunity to shoot at a location that has everything we need and more, would be a dream.
A live broadcast online of the entire filming process. A behind the scenes view that puts the audience in the making of the film, in real time.
After reaching 25%, we couldn't help but throw something back to our contributors to say thank you a little more.
Now, all $50+ pledges will also get a digital copy of the film on top of their incentive of choice!
THANK YOU!!
And then...
Following the film's editing, it will be submitted to targeted specific film festivals.
Festivals are the lifeblood of independent film and our cast and crew has collected over
150 Official Selections
on their collected works and contributions to independent films.
Plus dozens of award nomination with multiple wins!
These numbers are a testament to the professionalism of our team and their commitment to producing extraordinary work.
In Closing
This could be so much more than one little short film. Plans to develop more of the stories from the graphic novel. We hope to be a part of that and this is a step in that direction.
Keep coming back, we’ll keep updating and dropping things like; merch, live streams, and more!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Brains, I mean snacks
Costs C$1,500
When our budgets cannot allow us to pay union scale salaries, the absolute least we can do is provide fuel for our team.
Grab Your Torches and Pitchforks!
Costs C$2,100
We are fortunate to have a talented crew who are willing to offer discounts on their kits. The production value is worth ten-fold!
The Cheque is in the Mail
Costs C$1,500
Work to live, or live to work. Whatever your motivation, your effort should be fairly compensated. Even on a low-budget short film.
I Know My Rights!
Costs C$900
We're getting the best deal for artist and story rights that any (living) human can get, but the legal costs are still considerable.
Share this update!
About This Team
Jason Seelmann - WRITER / DIRECTOR
Born in Calgary, Alberta where he found a home in theatre, performing in a myriad of plays and musicals and contributing as
much as he could to the production of the shows including set building sets, lighting and stage management.
He became involved in filmmaking primarily while working on movies and television series as a background performer. He
began to learn the complexities of the film industry while watching and engaging with many of the crew, as well as fellow cast
mates, whenever possible. Discussions with directors like Ang Lee (on the set of Brokeback Mountain), and Paul Gross (on
the set of Passchendaele) fueled his creative side and he began working on his own ideas.
Jason’s primary interest is writing dramatic and socially related pieces and his first three short films have garnered 100 official
selections, and more than 50 award nominations with 15 wins including Best Drama, Best Director and Audience Choice.
Celeste Wylie - PRODUCER / MARY
A multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry, Celeste showcases her abilities not only as an Actress but also as a Writer,
Director and Producer.
In 2023, Celeste won 'Best Short Form Performance' at the Calgary Stinger Awards for her
starring role in the short film New Nina; a film that she also wrote, produced and directed.
She also received a nomination for 'Best Female Performance' at 50th Annual Rosie Awards, in 2023, for the same role. The
Alberta Film & Television Awards, aka The Rosies, is the oldest live film and television awards event in Canada.
She is a member of ACTRA, the Canadian Media Producers Association (CMPA) as well as the Alberta Media Production
Industries Association (AMPIA.
Omatta Udalor - JOHN / PRODUCER
An award winning multi-talented actor, producer, voice artist, writer, dancer and director. Omatta is also a producer with
Handcuffs Entertainment Inc and has produced numerous short films including, THE TRIAL OF MISS MUDIMBE, TEXTED,
and BLINK the winner of the Alberta Spirit Award at FAVA 2023. He has produced two features; THE LOST CAFE running on
Netflix from 2020-2023 and A WARM CHRISTMAS a family
centered drama currently in distribution talks.
He recently appeared in Calgary movies- THE CALL, THE TIES THAT BIND and FAULTLINE. He has worked on projects like
FARGO S5, WYNONNA EARP, and THE LAST OF US. He has voiced numerous commercials and documentaries. He is the
host of Vertigo Mystery Radio.
Also serving as Producer on this project. He is passionate about PariLeto and is excited to bring this story to life. So excited
he also will be playing the role of John, a character he believes has a great range to show the audience.
Gin Fedotov - THOMAS
Born in Kyiv. Ukraine, raised in Central Mexico, educated in Los Angeles CA, before landing in Canada in 2003 and has
been acting for the last 12 years.
What draws him to acting and filmmaking more than anything, is the opportunity to tell
meaningful stories and be part of creating moments that might make you think, feel or dream. Like many actors, he aspires
to be part of memorable projects and is elated to work with Omatta again, on a project with serious bite, that hopefully will
become memorable.
The story of Pari Leto pulled him in from the second paragraph and didn’t let go until a couple of days later, as he kept thinking
about the writing’s philosophical and practical implications. Though the “fantasy of the end of the world" is prevalent in today’s
entertainment; he believes that putting faith and pragmatism on a collision course is something very fun and equally deep to
explore, as well as quite fresh in a well-exploited genre.
Autumn Dang - EVE
Throughout her career, Autumn has sought to refine her craft through training at distinguished institutions such as the Toronto
Acting Academy for Film & TV, Stella Adler Studio of Acting, The Annex Acting Studio, and the Armstrong Acting Studio.
Working with renowned coaches like Christina Collins, Dayle Towarnicky, Patrick Quagliano, Frank Kruger, and Lara Jean
Chorostecki, she has continually expanded her artistic horizons.
In addition to her on-screen endeavors, Autumn has found harmony in her passion for music. A member of the vocal performance
group, Revv52, since 2017, she has shared the stage with musical legends like Emmylou Harris, Sass Jordan, and Ellis Hall. The
pinnacle of her musical journey led her to Carnegie Hall in 2019, where she and Revv52 delivered a mesmerizing performance
as part of DCINY's Total Vocal Festival. Autumn's vocal prowess is a testament to her training under luminaries like Sherry Kennedy,
Tamara Beatty (Coach on NBC's The Voice), and Lauren Ireland.
Joe Tong - GRAPHIC ARTIST
A freelance illustrator, his specialty is horror as well as chimeras. In addition to the graphic short story Pari Leto
is based on, he is also working on a short Manga story.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Faith. A belief in something for which there is no proof.
In our every-day lives, some find it challenging to remain faithful to their beliefs, to their religion, or spirituality and/or to their god. Many who put their faith in a divine being, call on that god in times of need.
But what if, that belief is pushed to an unmeasurable extreme? What if the end of the world as you know it has come. What if, the dead rose from the grave and ate your wife, or aunt, or brother, or child? Do you still believe in god’s plan?
For those who do not believe god gave us life and everything around us, this end of the world scenario sounds like it’s just another day. That the world is just spinning and it’s probably “man’s” fault for putting too many chemicals on our food and now the dead are coming to life and eating the rest of us.
But when there is still generosity in the world. When there are still people helping each other. And when people come together in solidarity and good will toward each other. Do you still deny the possibility that there could be something more than this world, than this existence?
John still believes in his god’s plan and in the purpose his god has for him. He still prays every morning and many more times during the day than he used to. Despite the world collapsing around him, he still has faith.
Thomas on the other hand, has survived and will continue to survive from one day to the next. He knows the people in this secluded camp need his skills with a rifle. And shooting one zombie today, means one less zombie tomorrow.
John would give anything to bring Thomas to the light and show him that god’s plan has brought them together. That these skills are gifts and to cherish this community they are a part of. But Thomas would give anything for some peace and quiet.
Whether you believe or not, few of us can deny the importance of community and that it takes a village for life to thrive. But, none of us know what it’s like to wake up to a zombie apocalypse. How would your faith stand?
It would be easy to put the film in a dystopian and dark landscape of death and despair. But the contrast between the two characters lends itself to be much more. Therefore, the trees are still full, the grass still grows, the birds still sing. It’s only the dead that are walking. The earth lives on and continues to provide for this community. A hearty garden and plenty of scrap wood for the fire. Only, be sure to keep your head about you and ALWAYS make sure the Guardsmen on the watch towers know you’re there.
Mike Kasper is one talented Designer to watch out for. He may be fairly new to the role, but he is quickly gaining experience as has started his own prop house, so we’re in great hands!
Amanda Tozser is our Makeup Artist, with years of film and special event makeup experience.
Marta Styler is our Costume Designer, bringing decades of experience from modern to period to the wildly imaginative.
The Village meets The Book of Eli while walking through the Land of the Dead
The film could take place just about anywhere in world, but it will be shot just outside of Calgary, Alberta. The setting is dense forest, surrounded by a swift river and a small meadow that will be the garden for the living. The location will also lend challenges, as the road to get there could make a believer out of anyone.
A stretch goal, for this oasis. It has everything we could dream for, but at a pretty price. Doubling our target would secure this location for us!
So, you're a zombie wandering lifelessly through life...
and you stumble onto our characters
JOHN (centre left)
He would rather sit you down and pray for your soul. Tell you a story about loss and how his faith is stronger than ever.
THOMAS (centre right)
You won't even hear the shot. He's no nonsense and will not hesitate to take you out with his sniper rifle.
MARY (left)
Peace and love man. Have some tea, do some needlepoint, but if you try to eat her brain, it would be a doily she's crocheting.
EVE (right)
Silent but deadly. She almost enjoys the kill.
Why us? Why now?
This is a study on our society
... today and to watch lengths we, as individuals, will go to defend our believes - or challenge the status quo. Who dare to ask questions, instead of just excepting what we're told is true.
To Believe or Not to Believe
... is a question we, in our humanity, have often ask ourselves. I've heard it said, it isn't so important in what you believe, but that you believe. Believe in our humanity, a community, family, or friendship. To feel connected and part of something bigger than what we are as individuals, in a society, is critical to our survival and to our future.
Adapting a graphic novel about a zombie
... apocalypse was never on my radar. In fact, neither of those things are high on my go-to list of things to do when I’m home alone and the power goes out. However, the opportunity to bring these two people to life sounded exceptionally challenging and I am thrilled about it. These are two very different and complex individuals. Expanding and studying many aspects about their new way of life, will be a feast for the senses, in a new spin on the genre.
Your gift will bring this compelling story to life and challenge your faith.
Is it strong enough?
Is your conviction true?
Would you die for it?
Would you kill for it?
BIG PLAN
Currently scheduled for filming the weekend of Sep 20th, one day prep, 2-day shoot
Target goal for the funds raised will go to paying minimal honorariums, equipment rentals and food.
THE STRETCH
We will increase our salaries beyond just an honorarium to meet the level of our industry union and guild rates. THEN... more elaborate digital effects that elevate the level of practical effects we're currently limited to.
There is an additional scene in the graphic novel that wouldn't be possible without significant investment in time and money to pull off. But, it is a very impactful moment that further elaborates on the characteristics oof these two people. And more zombies!
The location of our dreams is an oasis, but costly. We can do fine with less, but the opportunity to shoot at a location that has everything we need and more, would be a dream.
A live broadcast online of the entire filming process. A behind the scenes view that puts the audience in the making of the film, in real time.
After reaching 25%, we couldn't help but throw something back to our contributors to say thank you a little more.
Now, all $50+ pledges will also get a digital copy of the film on top of their incentive of choice!
THANK YOU!!
And then...
Following the film's editing, it will be submitted to targeted specific film festivals.
Festivals are the lifeblood of independent film and our cast and crew has collected over
150 Official Selections
on their collected works and contributions to independent films.
Plus dozens of award nomination with multiple wins!
These numbers are a testament to the professionalism of our team and their commitment to producing extraordinary work.
In Closing
This could be so much more than one little short film. Plans to develop more of the stories from the graphic novel. We hope to be a part of that and this is a step in that direction.
Keep coming back, we’ll keep updating and dropping things like; merch, live streams, and more!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Brains, I mean snacks
Costs C$1,500
When our budgets cannot allow us to pay union scale salaries, the absolute least we can do is provide fuel for our team.
Grab Your Torches and Pitchforks!
Costs C$2,100
We are fortunate to have a talented crew who are willing to offer discounts on their kits. The production value is worth ten-fold!
The Cheque is in the Mail
Costs C$1,500
Work to live, or live to work. Whatever your motivation, your effort should be fairly compensated. Even on a low-budget short film.
I Know My Rights!
Costs C$900
We're getting the best deal for artist and story rights that any (living) human can get, but the legal costs are still considerable.
Share this update!
About This Team
Jason Seelmann - WRITER / DIRECTOR
Born in Calgary, Alberta where he found a home in theatre, performing in a myriad of plays and musicals and contributing as
much as he could to the production of the shows including set building sets, lighting and stage management.
He became involved in filmmaking primarily while working on movies and television series as a background performer. He
began to learn the complexities of the film industry while watching and engaging with many of the crew, as well as fellow cast
mates, whenever possible. Discussions with directors like Ang Lee (on the set of Brokeback Mountain), and Paul Gross (on
the set of Passchendaele) fueled his creative side and he began working on his own ideas.
Jason’s primary interest is writing dramatic and socially related pieces and his first three short films have garnered 100 official
selections, and more than 50 award nominations with 15 wins including Best Drama, Best Director and Audience Choice.
Celeste Wylie - PRODUCER / MARY
A multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry, Celeste showcases her abilities not only as an Actress but also as a Writer,
Director and Producer.
In 2023, Celeste won 'Best Short Form Performance' at the Calgary Stinger Awards for her
starring role in the short film New Nina; a film that she also wrote, produced and directed.
She also received a nomination for 'Best Female Performance' at 50th Annual Rosie Awards, in 2023, for the same role. The
Alberta Film & Television Awards, aka The Rosies, is the oldest live film and television awards event in Canada.
She is a member of ACTRA, the Canadian Media Producers Association (CMPA) as well as the Alberta Media Production
Industries Association (AMPIA.
Omatta Udalor - JOHN / PRODUCER
An award winning multi-talented actor, producer, voice artist, writer, dancer and director. Omatta is also a producer with
Handcuffs Entertainment Inc and has produced numerous short films including, THE TRIAL OF MISS MUDIMBE, TEXTED,
and BLINK the winner of the Alberta Spirit Award at FAVA 2023. He has produced two features; THE LOST CAFE running on
Netflix from 2020-2023 and A WARM CHRISTMAS a family
centered drama currently in distribution talks.
He recently appeared in Calgary movies- THE CALL, THE TIES THAT BIND and FAULTLINE. He has worked on projects like
FARGO S5, WYNONNA EARP, and THE LAST OF US. He has voiced numerous commercials and documentaries. He is the
host of Vertigo Mystery Radio.
Also serving as Producer on this project. He is passionate about PariLeto and is excited to bring this story to life. So excited
he also will be playing the role of John, a character he believes has a great range to show the audience.
Gin Fedotov - THOMAS
Born in Kyiv. Ukraine, raised in Central Mexico, educated in Los Angeles CA, before landing in Canada in 2003 and has
been acting for the last 12 years.
What draws him to acting and filmmaking more than anything, is the opportunity to tell
meaningful stories and be part of creating moments that might make you think, feel or dream. Like many actors, he aspires
to be part of memorable projects and is elated to work with Omatta again, on a project with serious bite, that hopefully will
become memorable.
The story of Pari Leto pulled him in from the second paragraph and didn’t let go until a couple of days later, as he kept thinking
about the writing’s philosophical and practical implications. Though the “fantasy of the end of the world" is prevalent in today’s
entertainment; he believes that putting faith and pragmatism on a collision course is something very fun and equally deep to
explore, as well as quite fresh in a well-exploited genre.
Autumn Dang - EVE
Throughout her career, Autumn has sought to refine her craft through training at distinguished institutions such as the Toronto
Acting Academy for Film & TV, Stella Adler Studio of Acting, The Annex Acting Studio, and the Armstrong Acting Studio.
Working with renowned coaches like Christina Collins, Dayle Towarnicky, Patrick Quagliano, Frank Kruger, and Lara Jean
Chorostecki, she has continually expanded her artistic horizons.
In addition to her on-screen endeavors, Autumn has found harmony in her passion for music. A member of the vocal performance
group, Revv52, since 2017, she has shared the stage with musical legends like Emmylou Harris, Sass Jordan, and Ellis Hall. The
pinnacle of her musical journey led her to Carnegie Hall in 2019, where she and Revv52 delivered a mesmerizing performance
as part of DCINY's Total Vocal Festival. Autumn's vocal prowess is a testament to her training under luminaries like Sherry Kennedy,
Tamara Beatty (Coach on NBC's The Voice), and Lauren Ireland.
Joe Tong - GRAPHIC ARTIST
A freelance illustrator, his specialty is horror as well as chimeras. In addition to the graphic short story Pari Leto
is based on, he is also working on a short Manga story.