Pool Birds
Fort Lauderdale, Florida | Film Short
Crime, Fantasy
For most people In Piscina County, swimming is banned. Tice and Marina, “The Poolbirds,” steal pool cards to defy an oppressive sheriff, sparking a surreal, water-soaked rebellion about freedom, love, and restoring their community’s stolen right to swim.
Pool Birds
Fort Lauderdale, Florida | Film Short
Crime, Fantasy
50 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
$5,100
Goal: $16,000 for production
For most people In Piscina County, swimming is banned. Tice and Marina, “The Poolbirds,” steal pool cards to defy an oppressive sheriff, sparking a surreal, water-soaked rebellion about freedom, love, and restoring their community’s stolen right to swim.
Participating In
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
In this town, the economy, government, and local culture is built around one thing: swimming. However, not everyone has access to the pools.
Tice and his girlfriend Marina are professional thieves locally known as "THE POOLBIRDS." What they steal isn't money or jewels, instead they snatch something way more valuable: Pool Cards. Pool cards are the drivers licenses of swimming in Piscina County. It's illegal to swim in any pool, lake or beach without one, but the oppressive police force lead by Sheriff Monson holds all the power to decide who gets (and especially who doesn't get) to receive them.
After breaking out of jail, the couple acquire WEAPONIZED WATER GUNS and SPECIALIZED SCUBA GEAR gear to carry out their new plan.
The mission? Steal as many pool cards as they can get their hands on, restore the local residents' freedom to swim, and put a stop to Sheriff Monson's ruthless hold over the town. All while navigating the nuances of their relationship.
Poolbirds is a surreal, crime fantasy that explores the theme of doing what's right even when it feels wrong. The film uses absurdist motifs to tell the story of vigilante revolutionaries fighting oppression while intercutting to dramatic realism in the relationship dynamics of the protagonists.
This story serves as a reminder that a little bit of UNDERSTANDING AND EMPATHY can not only go a long way in our relationships with our loved ones, but with our fellow community members as well.
Did you know that 64% of black american children cannot swim? When compared to white children, black children are THREE TIMES MORE LIKELY TO DIE FROM DROWNING. Even when looking at adults, the CDC reports that 1 in 3 (37%) of black adults do not know how to swim. As compared to just 15% of all adults. 3 in 4 Hispanic adults report never taking any swimming lessons. Drowning is also the number one cause of death for children under age 4.
A whites only public swimming pool in Washington, D.C., 1942
This disparity in swimming isn't random, it's part of a long history of racial segregation of our nation's recreational swimming areas. When you think about the civil rights movement, the first thing that comes to mind may be segregation in schools or public transportation, but fight for integrated swimming spaces actually predates these landmark moments.
Virginia Key Beach in Miami, now a public park, was a historic segregated access point for black swimmers and waders
Early civil rights activists carried out protests at public pools and beaches called "WADE-INS" where black activists would swim in whites-only waters as a form of protest. These took place all around the country like in places like Mississippi, Baltimore, and even my home, South Florida.
A "wade-in" protest in Fort Lauderdale, July 1961
Poolbirds blends crime storytelling with swimming aesthetics to build the distinct atmosphere of Piscina County. Our protagonists draw from 80s and 90s swimwear, incorporating BOLD, VIBRANT HUES that pop against the cool, pool-centered environments. Their look evokes vintage art and fashion editorials.
In contrast, the town’s police, politicians, and media institutions are dressed in more muted, often monochromatic palettes, drawing inspiration from 60s and 70s styles. This visually reinforces the divide between rebellion and control.
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POOLBIRDS BLENDS A WIDE RANGE OF CINEMATIC INSPIRATIONS
The story is driven by the crime-couple archetype seen in films like Bonnie and Clyde and Queen & Slim. It incorporates high-stakes action and inventive methods of carrying out heists, inspired by Baby Driver and Drive.
The world-building leans into distinct absurdist motifs, drawing from Sorry to Bother You and Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, while the whimsical weapon and prop choices take cues from the Kingsman franchise.
Overall, the production design pulls inspiration from Wes Anderson, particularly his masterful use of color theory in films like The Grand Budapest Hotel.
So Why Poolbirds?
I am a black South Florida native, born and raised. I grew up in an a land sandwiched between the Atlantic ocean and the wetlands of the Everglades, peppered by countless swimming pools and canals everywhere you look. I was fortunate enough to have swimming lessons and learned to swim as a toddler, although not everyone I know had the luxury to do so.
I feel a deep personal connection to the struggle of those that came before me that fought for me to have the swimming ability I have today. Many of the significant swimming integration efforts of the civil rights era happened here in Florida, and in fact my own grandmother participated in the first wade in of Haulover Beach in Miami! I think it's not only important for me to tell these forgotten story of civil rights, but also it would be a disservice for those who fought and even died for our right to swim today.
Water is ingrained in the culture of my home. Swimming isn't just a fun activity, it's an integral part of the story of CIVIL RIGHTS IN AMERICA. We still have a long way to go to achieve equality, and Poolbirds is just a part of the next chapter.
Me and my siblings back in that day soaking up some sun and some good old fashioned backyard pool water.
Our goal is to raise $16,000 for production. In order to receive your contribution and have funds released:
WE MUST HIT 80% OF OUR GOAL
This project is also participating in the BEYOND THE SCREEN RALLY, which means that if our campaign hits our green-light and gathers over 250 followers, we have the chance to win up to
$5,000 of matching funds, mentorship, and guaranteed distribution with OTV Streaming platform.
BUDGET BREAKDOWN:
CAST (13%)
This budget supports fair pay for our lead and supporting actors who bring the emotional core of Piscina County to life.
PRODUCTION CREW (38%)
This covers our core crew including camera, sound, lighting, and ADs who keep the production running safely and efficiently each day.
ART DEPARTMENT / PRODUCTION DESIGN (7%)
This supports props, costumes, makeup, and set dressing that build the visual identity of the Poolbirds world.
EQUIPMENT USAGE / RENTALS (5%)
This allows us to rent essential camera, lighting, and grip gear needed to achieve professional production value.
POST PRODUCTION (14%)
This funds color, VFX, and sound finishing to deliver a polished, festival-ready final film.
LOCATIONS & PERMITS (9%)
This covers access and permitting for all key filming locations including pool, house, and controlled environments.
FOOD & CRAFT SERVICES (7%)
This ensures cast and crew are fed and supported throughout production days.
FESTIVAL RUN (3%)
This covers submissions to regional and national festivals to help the film reach audiences and programmers.
CONTINGENCY (5%)
This protects the production from unexpected costs and last-minute needs.
Join the Poolbirds Movement!
By joining us on the journey to bring poolbirds to life you are contributing to passionate and talented artists bringing into existence a story that begs to be told.
In an era of dehumanization of others you are helping to challenge the traditional conventions of morality, create a colletive momement of self reflection, and most of all make a fun, exciting and unique film concept thats a breath of fresh air for all who experience it.
Thank you so much for your contribution, and don't forget your swimsuit!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
ABOVE-THE-LINE (ACTORS)
Costs $2,040
This budget supports fair pay for our lead and supporting actors who bring the emotional core of Piscina County to life.
LOCATIONS & PERMITS
Costs $1,500
Location Costs House $600 Community pool $500 Jailhouse $400 Permits / insurance $300
Crew
Costs $6,000
This covers our core crew including camera, sound, lighting, and ADs who keep the production running safely and efficiently each day.
Equipment Usage & Rentals
Costs $800
This allows us to rent essential camera, lighting, and grip gear needed to achieve professional production value.
ART DEPARTMENT / PRODUCTION DESIGN
Costs $1,100
This supports props, costumes, makeup, and set dressing that build the visual identity of the Poolbirds world.
FESTIVAL RUN
Costs $400
This covers submissions to regional and national festivals to help the film reach audiences and programmers.
Contingency Funds
Costs $840
This protects the production from unexpected costs and last-minute needs.
POST PRODUCTION
Costs $2,200
This funds color, VFX, and sound finishing to deliver a polished, festival-ready final film.
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
MORE UPDATES ON CAST AND CREW COMING SOON!
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
In this town, the economy, government, and local culture is built around one thing: swimming. However, not everyone has access to the pools.
Tice and his girlfriend Marina are professional thieves locally known as "THE POOLBIRDS." What they steal isn't money or jewels, instead they snatch something way more valuable: Pool Cards. Pool cards are the drivers licenses of swimming in Piscina County. It's illegal to swim in any pool, lake or beach without one, but the oppressive police force lead by Sheriff Monson holds all the power to decide who gets (and especially who doesn't get) to receive them.
After breaking out of jail, the couple acquire WEAPONIZED WATER GUNS and SPECIALIZED SCUBA GEAR gear to carry out their new plan.
The mission? Steal as many pool cards as they can get their hands on, restore the local residents' freedom to swim, and put a stop to Sheriff Monson's ruthless hold over the town. All while navigating the nuances of their relationship.
Poolbirds is a surreal, crime fantasy that explores the theme of doing what's right even when it feels wrong. The film uses absurdist motifs to tell the story of vigilante revolutionaries fighting oppression while intercutting to dramatic realism in the relationship dynamics of the protagonists.
This story serves as a reminder that a little bit of UNDERSTANDING AND EMPATHY can not only go a long way in our relationships with our loved ones, but with our fellow community members as well.
Did you know that 64% of black american children cannot swim? When compared to white children, black children are THREE TIMES MORE LIKELY TO DIE FROM DROWNING. Even when looking at adults, the CDC reports that 1 in 3 (37%) of black adults do not know how to swim. As compared to just 15% of all adults. 3 in 4 Hispanic adults report never taking any swimming lessons. Drowning is also the number one cause of death for children under age 4.
A whites only public swimming pool in Washington, D.C., 1942
This disparity in swimming isn't random, it's part of a long history of racial segregation of our nation's recreational swimming areas. When you think about the civil rights movement, the first thing that comes to mind may be segregation in schools or public transportation, but fight for integrated swimming spaces actually predates these landmark moments.
Virginia Key Beach in Miami, now a public park, was a historic segregated access point for black swimmers and waders
Early civil rights activists carried out protests at public pools and beaches called "WADE-INS" where black activists would swim in whites-only waters as a form of protest. These took place all around the country like in places like Mississippi, Baltimore, and even my home, South Florida.
A "wade-in" protest in Fort Lauderdale, July 1961
Poolbirds blends crime storytelling with swimming aesthetics to build the distinct atmosphere of Piscina County. Our protagonists draw from 80s and 90s swimwear, incorporating BOLD, VIBRANT HUES that pop against the cool, pool-centered environments. Their look evokes vintage art and fashion editorials.
In contrast, the town’s police, politicians, and media institutions are dressed in more muted, often monochromatic palettes, drawing inspiration from 60s and 70s styles. This visually reinforces the divide between rebellion and control.
POOLBIRDS BLENDS A WIDE RANGE OF CINEMATIC INSPIRATIONS
The story is driven by the crime-couple archetype seen in films like Bonnie and Clyde and Queen & Slim. It incorporates high-stakes action and inventive methods of carrying out heists, inspired by Baby Driver and Drive.
The world-building leans into distinct absurdist motifs, drawing from Sorry to Bother You and Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, while the whimsical weapon and prop choices take cues from the Kingsman franchise.
Overall, the production design pulls inspiration from Wes Anderson, particularly his masterful use of color theory in films like The Grand Budapest Hotel.
So Why Poolbirds?
I am a black South Florida native, born and raised. I grew up in an a land sandwiched between the Atlantic ocean and the wetlands of the Everglades, peppered by countless swimming pools and canals everywhere you look. I was fortunate enough to have swimming lessons and learned to swim as a toddler, although not everyone I know had the luxury to do so.
I feel a deep personal connection to the struggle of those that came before me that fought for me to have the swimming ability I have today. Many of the significant swimming integration efforts of the civil rights era happened here in Florida, and in fact my own grandmother participated in the first wade in of Haulover Beach in Miami! I think it's not only important for me to tell these forgotten story of civil rights, but also it would be a disservice for those who fought and even died for our right to swim today.
Water is ingrained in the culture of my home. Swimming isn't just a fun activity, it's an integral part of the story of CIVIL RIGHTS IN AMERICA. We still have a long way to go to achieve equality, and Poolbirds is just a part of the next chapter.
Me and my siblings back in that day soaking up some sun and some good old fashioned backyard pool water.
Our goal is to raise $16,000 for production. In order to receive your contribution and have funds released:
WE MUST HIT 80% OF OUR GOAL
This project is also participating in the BEYOND THE SCREEN RALLY, which means that if our campaign hits our green-light and gathers over 250 followers, we have the chance to win up to
$5,000 of matching funds, mentorship, and guaranteed distribution with OTV Streaming platform.
BUDGET BREAKDOWN:
CAST (13%)
This budget supports fair pay for our lead and supporting actors who bring the emotional core of Piscina County to life.
PRODUCTION CREW (38%)
This covers our core crew including camera, sound, lighting, and ADs who keep the production running safely and efficiently each day.
ART DEPARTMENT / PRODUCTION DESIGN (7%)
This supports props, costumes, makeup, and set dressing that build the visual identity of the Poolbirds world.
EQUIPMENT USAGE / RENTALS (5%)
This allows us to rent essential camera, lighting, and grip gear needed to achieve professional production value.
POST PRODUCTION (14%)
This funds color, VFX, and sound finishing to deliver a polished, festival-ready final film.
LOCATIONS & PERMITS (9%)
This covers access and permitting for all key filming locations including pool, house, and controlled environments.
FOOD & CRAFT SERVICES (7%)
This ensures cast and crew are fed and supported throughout production days.
FESTIVAL RUN (3%)
This covers submissions to regional and national festivals to help the film reach audiences and programmers.
CONTINGENCY (5%)
This protects the production from unexpected costs and last-minute needs.
Join the Poolbirds Movement!
By joining us on the journey to bring poolbirds to life you are contributing to passionate and talented artists bringing into existence a story that begs to be told.
In an era of dehumanization of others you are helping to challenge the traditional conventions of morality, create a colletive momement of self reflection, and most of all make a fun, exciting and unique film concept thats a breath of fresh air for all who experience it.
Thank you so much for your contribution, and don't forget your swimsuit!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
ABOVE-THE-LINE (ACTORS)
Costs $2,040
This budget supports fair pay for our lead and supporting actors who bring the emotional core of Piscina County to life.
LOCATIONS & PERMITS
Costs $1,500
Location Costs House $600 Community pool $500 Jailhouse $400 Permits / insurance $300
Crew
Costs $6,000
This covers our core crew including camera, sound, lighting, and ADs who keep the production running safely and efficiently each day.
Equipment Usage & Rentals
Costs $800
This allows us to rent essential camera, lighting, and grip gear needed to achieve professional production value.
ART DEPARTMENT / PRODUCTION DESIGN
Costs $1,100
This supports props, costumes, makeup, and set dressing that build the visual identity of the Poolbirds world.
FESTIVAL RUN
Costs $400
This covers submissions to regional and national festivals to help the film reach audiences and programmers.
Contingency Funds
Costs $840
This protects the production from unexpected costs and last-minute needs.
POST PRODUCTION
Costs $2,200
This funds color, VFX, and sound finishing to deliver a polished, festival-ready final film.
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team