Poisoned, Poseidon
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | Film Short
Drama, Family
An ex-gambling addict goes to extreme lengths to reconnect with her estranged son in the hopes of becoming a family unit again, only to find concerning parallels in her son's current lifestyle.
Poisoned, Poseidon
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | Film Short
Drama, Family
52 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
$2,525
Goal: $2,500 for production
An ex-gambling addict goes to extreme lengths to reconnect with her estranged son in the hopes of becoming a family unit again, only to find concerning parallels in her son's current lifestyle.
Participating In
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Fold or go all in? This film is all about going to great lengths to achieve something. Oftentimes, it leads you to a path of destruction and addiction. Understanding the fine line between going all in and knowing when to fold is what we will explore through our protagonists in Poisoned, Poseidon.
For me, I already know my answer. Making Poisoned, Poseidon is my version of "going all in" and we've also entered into the AAPI Renaissance Crowdfunding Rally which requires us to raise at least $2,500 as well as garner over 350 followers. Winning this contest would grant us over $10,000, mentorship from Asian-American creatives actively working in the industry, and a chance to pitch at the Toronto International Film Festival to turn our story into a feature length film!! Supporting this campaign means you're actively opening doors for a new filmmaker that truly needs it. We would love for you to join us and embark on this thrilling journey together. :)
Who Am I?
My name is Alex Su and I am a first generation queer Chinese-American filmmaker, actor, and singer-songwriter who's writing and directing my first short film since 2019. During the 7 year stretch between my last short film and this one, I worked remotely as a Digital Project Manager for Sony Pictures while simultaneously releasing original music independently.
Tabwoods (Directorial Debut Short Film in 2019)
Hearty (Short Film 2018)
Jack and Whiskey (Live Studio Performance At Cart Music in Philly 2024)
What's The Film About?
Poisoned, Poseidon tells the story of Linda and Anderson Ma, whose relationship has been estranged due to the lasting impact of a crippling gambling addiction. Linda, a Chinese-American immigrant who is now 5 years in recovery, hopes to reenter her son's life through convoluted avenues, hoping to showcase her changed lifestyle. Anderson, struggling with making ends meet to fund his music career, finds himself behaving familiarly as his gambling mother just to reach his goals. As Linda and Anderson's lives slowly intertwine once more, they have to decide whether the relationship is salvageable or if they're better off leaving each other alone.
Why Am I Making This Film?
For starters, in a lot of ways, this story is somewhat similar to my own life. My mother and I are nowhere near estranged like Linda and Anderson, however, many experiences and events in this film stem from our own dynamic and relationship. I am making this film because I want to dive deeper into how gambling addiction affects loved ones. I want to understand my own relationship with money, love, and addiction as a direct result of my childhood. More importantly, I want to have more compassion for my mother's past. Writing Poisoned, Poseidon has already allowed me to understand my past more than any conversation or therapy has achieved.
On a personal level, in the summer of 2020, I was involved in an extremely traumatic car accident where I tried to chase my artistic dreams and move across the country on a roadtrip to California. My naive and optimistic view on creative pursuits and my hopes and dreams were instantly crushed. Because it demolished all my plans, the event felt like a sign from the universe that I shouldn't dream and that I should be more practical in life just like my distant relatives and NYU Tisch interviewers always advised me to be. As a result, I took a remote corporate job and I worked endlessly for years, creating excuses for myself on why I shouldn't chase after my dreams.
Until something magical happened on December 1st, 2025. I got a call from someone at HR that I've never met and immediately got laid off after 4+ years, and somehow the biggest sigh escaped my lips. The universe spoke to me again. I realized I can't make any more excuses. I have to believe in myself once more. So on the first day of 2026, I vowed to myself that I must do everything I can to pursue my dreams unapologetically and no longer allow that one terrifying experience to paralyze me anymore.
Why Should You Support This Film?
Oftentimes, older BIPOC women do not get to have much of a life in films aside from being the struggling hard-working mother. In Poisoned, Poseidon, Linda has an objective that leads her to unexpected situations. She's unapologetically herself, especially when she's around people she's comfortable with. I want people to find a fully flawed and realized human being in Linda Ma, and my goal is to cast the best person I can find for her.
I'm also dipping my toes again after more than 6 years of giving up filmmaking and screenwriting. Supporting this campaign gives me the confidence boost needed to execute this short film in a way that makes me (and you as a patron) proud.
My goals with this film is to resonate with victims of gambling addiction, Asian-American immigrants, and queer BIPOC dreamers. Please help support the cause for queer and Asian-American creatives to succeed in the arts because their voices deserve to be heard!!!
How Your Contributions Will Help
We are currently in the very early stages of pre-production and the first version of the final script has been finalized!
Early Writing Session with Co-Writer Erika Lobati (So early in the process that the working title is vastly different!)
Pledging to this campaign will get the ball rolling on the following:
- Cast
- Crew
- Equipment
- Location Scouting
- Craft Services
- Costume Design
- Production Design/Props
- And so much more!!!
Reaching the goal of raising $2,500 within 30 days would give us the opportunity to win additional grants and mentorship and I will forever be grateful that you helped make that dream come true! Even if you cannot support us monetarily, you can help raise awareness by sending this campaign to your friends, coworkers, family, social media, OR if you'd like to be an extra on the film and see yourselves on the big screens, we are always open to having you as an extra. There's so much that goes into making a film, so please don't hesitate to ask how you can be a part of this project!
Lastly, our stretch goal is to raise $4,000 so please consider contributing even if the $2,500 goal has been met. Thank you so much :)
I can't wait to do this with you!!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
The Cast
Costs $400
Although a small main cast, we want to find the best of the best and would like to compensate the cast for all their incredibly hard work!!
Crew Members
Costs $500
Every set needs a billion things to be done at once. Having a full crew on board is essential and I want to ensure they are equitably paid.
Craft Services
Costs $200
We need food and drinks on set to keep our cast and crew from getting hangry!
Equipment
Costs $800
Cameras, Lights, Action. We want to have all the essential equipment to make our movie magic come to life on the big screen!!
Production Design
Costs $200
Details are what make things REAL. We want every room and set piece to be intentional with our story so you are engaged visually!
Costume Design
Costs $200
Outfits illuminate a lot about someone's personality. So we want every piece of clothing to be intentional, even down to a graphic tee.
Distribution Fees
Costs $200
We want to get this film EVERYWHERE! Most festivals have a fee to submit and so we want to be as prepared as possible for the short film!!
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
As we are currently in the Pre-Production phase, we are only currently a team of two. With your contribution and support, we hope to foster a community of uplifting Queer and BIPOC professionals in the industry and creating an environment that allows diverse individuals to freely express themselves within a safe space. Here is the current team you'd be joining when you pledge to "Poisoned, Poseidon":
Alex Su
Director/Co-Writer
Alex Su is a Queer Chinese-American filmmaker, writer, actor, and musician, based in Philadelphia, PA. He has a BA in Film and Marketing from Rutgers University and his senior thesis short film "Tabwoods" debuted at the 2019 Newark International Film Festival. Alex has spent 4 years working as a Digital Marketer for Sony Pictures and is now very excited to venture into personal creative passion projects. Alex's new screenplay "Poisoned, Poseidon" is one he is particularly proud of as the story pours directly from his heart and he hopes to foster environments that celebrate queer and BIPOC artistry.
Erika Lobati
Co-Writer
Erika Lobati is a Cameroonian American indie filmmaker and writer currently based in Philadelphia, PA. She is a full-time social media producer/editor at Vox Media by day and a story dreamer by night. She graduated with two BAs in Film and Psychology from the University of Kansas, and has an MFA degree in Film and Media Arts from Temple University. She's always been a lover of comedy, but is especially drawn to heartfelt, coming-of-age stories centering folks from underrepresented cultures/communities. Erika is very excited to work on Alex Su's "Poisoned, Poseidon" to bring complex human relationships and social issues to light through the unique lens of an immigrant family.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Fold or go all in? This film is all about going to great lengths to achieve something. Oftentimes, it leads you to a path of destruction and addiction. Understanding the fine line between going all in and knowing when to fold is what we will explore through our protagonists in Poisoned, Poseidon.
For me, I already know my answer. Making Poisoned, Poseidon is my version of "going all in" and we've also entered into the AAPI Renaissance Crowdfunding Rally which requires us to raise at least $2,500 as well as garner over 350 followers. Winning this contest would grant us over $10,000, mentorship from Asian-American creatives actively working in the industry, and a chance to pitch at the Toronto International Film Festival to turn our story into a feature length film!! Supporting this campaign means you're actively opening doors for a new filmmaker that truly needs it. We would love for you to join us and embark on this thrilling journey together. :)
Who Am I?
My name is Alex Su and I am a first generation queer Chinese-American filmmaker, actor, and singer-songwriter who's writing and directing my first short film since 2019. During the 7 year stretch between my last short film and this one, I worked remotely as a Digital Project Manager for Sony Pictures while simultaneously releasing original music independently.
Tabwoods (Directorial Debut Short Film in 2019)
Hearty (Short Film 2018)
Jack and Whiskey (Live Studio Performance At Cart Music in Philly 2024)
What's The Film About?
Poisoned, Poseidon tells the story of Linda and Anderson Ma, whose relationship has been estranged due to the lasting impact of a crippling gambling addiction. Linda, a Chinese-American immigrant who is now 5 years in recovery, hopes to reenter her son's life through convoluted avenues, hoping to showcase her changed lifestyle. Anderson, struggling with making ends meet to fund his music career, finds himself behaving familiarly as his gambling mother just to reach his goals. As Linda and Anderson's lives slowly intertwine once more, they have to decide whether the relationship is salvageable or if they're better off leaving each other alone.
Why Am I Making This Film?
For starters, in a lot of ways, this story is somewhat similar to my own life. My mother and I are nowhere near estranged like Linda and Anderson, however, many experiences and events in this film stem from our own dynamic and relationship. I am making this film because I want to dive deeper into how gambling addiction affects loved ones. I want to understand my own relationship with money, love, and addiction as a direct result of my childhood. More importantly, I want to have more compassion for my mother's past. Writing Poisoned, Poseidon has already allowed me to understand my past more than any conversation or therapy has achieved.
On a personal level, in the summer of 2020, I was involved in an extremely traumatic car accident where I tried to chase my artistic dreams and move across the country on a roadtrip to California. My naive and optimistic view on creative pursuits and my hopes and dreams were instantly crushed. Because it demolished all my plans, the event felt like a sign from the universe that I shouldn't dream and that I should be more practical in life just like my distant relatives and NYU Tisch interviewers always advised me to be. As a result, I took a remote corporate job and I worked endlessly for years, creating excuses for myself on why I shouldn't chase after my dreams.
Until something magical happened on December 1st, 2025. I got a call from someone at HR that I've never met and immediately got laid off after 4+ years, and somehow the biggest sigh escaped my lips. The universe spoke to me again. I realized I can't make any more excuses. I have to believe in myself once more. So on the first day of 2026, I vowed to myself that I must do everything I can to pursue my dreams unapologetically and no longer allow that one terrifying experience to paralyze me anymore.
Why Should You Support This Film?
Oftentimes, older BIPOC women do not get to have much of a life in films aside from being the struggling hard-working mother. In Poisoned, Poseidon, Linda has an objective that leads her to unexpected situations. She's unapologetically herself, especially when she's around people she's comfortable with. I want people to find a fully flawed and realized human being in Linda Ma, and my goal is to cast the best person I can find for her.
I'm also dipping my toes again after more than 6 years of giving up filmmaking and screenwriting. Supporting this campaign gives me the confidence boost needed to execute this short film in a way that makes me (and you as a patron) proud.
My goals with this film is to resonate with victims of gambling addiction, Asian-American immigrants, and queer BIPOC dreamers. Please help support the cause for queer and Asian-American creatives to succeed in the arts because their voices deserve to be heard!!!
How Your Contributions Will Help
We are currently in the very early stages of pre-production and the first version of the final script has been finalized!
Early Writing Session with Co-Writer Erika Lobati (So early in the process that the working title is vastly different!)
Pledging to this campaign will get the ball rolling on the following:
- Cast
- Crew
- Equipment
- Location Scouting
- Craft Services
- Costume Design
- Production Design/Props
- And so much more!!!
Reaching the goal of raising $2,500 within 30 days would give us the opportunity to win additional grants and mentorship and I will forever be grateful that you helped make that dream come true! Even if you cannot support us monetarily, you can help raise awareness by sending this campaign to your friends, coworkers, family, social media, OR if you'd like to be an extra on the film and see yourselves on the big screens, we are always open to having you as an extra. There's so much that goes into making a film, so please don't hesitate to ask how you can be a part of this project!
Lastly, our stretch goal is to raise $4,000 so please consider contributing even if the $2,500 goal has been met. Thank you so much :)
I can't wait to do this with you!!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
The Cast
Costs $400
Although a small main cast, we want to find the best of the best and would like to compensate the cast for all their incredibly hard work!!
Crew Members
Costs $500
Every set needs a billion things to be done at once. Having a full crew on board is essential and I want to ensure they are equitably paid.
Craft Services
Costs $200
We need food and drinks on set to keep our cast and crew from getting hangry!
Equipment
Costs $800
Cameras, Lights, Action. We want to have all the essential equipment to make our movie magic come to life on the big screen!!
Production Design
Costs $200
Details are what make things REAL. We want every room and set piece to be intentional with our story so you are engaged visually!
Costume Design
Costs $200
Outfits illuminate a lot about someone's personality. So we want every piece of clothing to be intentional, even down to a graphic tee.
Distribution Fees
Costs $200
We want to get this film EVERYWHERE! Most festivals have a fee to submit and so we want to be as prepared as possible for the short film!!
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
As we are currently in the Pre-Production phase, we are only currently a team of two. With your contribution and support, we hope to foster a community of uplifting Queer and BIPOC professionals in the industry and creating an environment that allows diverse individuals to freely express themselves within a safe space. Here is the current team you'd be joining when you pledge to "Poisoned, Poseidon":
Alex Su
Director/Co-Writer
Alex Su is a Queer Chinese-American filmmaker, writer, actor, and musician, based in Philadelphia, PA. He has a BA in Film and Marketing from Rutgers University and his senior thesis short film "Tabwoods" debuted at the 2019 Newark International Film Festival. Alex has spent 4 years working as a Digital Marketer for Sony Pictures and is now very excited to venture into personal creative passion projects. Alex's new screenplay "Poisoned, Poseidon" is one he is particularly proud of as the story pours directly from his heart and he hopes to foster environments that celebrate queer and BIPOC artistry.
Erika Lobati
Co-Writer
Erika Lobati is a Cameroonian American indie filmmaker and writer currently based in Philadelphia, PA. She is a full-time social media producer/editor at Vox Media by day and a story dreamer by night. She graduated with two BAs in Film and Psychology from the University of Kansas, and has an MFA degree in Film and Media Arts from Temple University. She's always been a lover of comedy, but is especially drawn to heartfelt, coming-of-age stories centering folks from underrepresented cultures/communities. Erika is very excited to work on Alex Su's "Poisoned, Poseidon" to bring complex human relationships and social issues to light through the unique lens of an immigrant family.