RHAWT
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Horror, Shorts Program
Marie, an ambitious dental assistant, discovers a mysterious Girl hiding in her clinic after hours. She secretly treats the Girl's painful tooth; but, something is terribly wrong... and when her boss uncovers their after-hours operation, both are forced to confront the Girl's monstrous secret.
RHAWT
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Horror, Shorts Program
1 Campaigns | California, United States
21 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
$3,610
Goal: $6,001 for production
Marie, an ambitious dental assistant, discovers a mysterious Girl hiding in her clinic after hours. She secretly treats the Girl's painful tooth; but, something is terribly wrong... and when her boss uncovers their after-hours operation, both are forced to confront the Girl's monstrous secret.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
"RHAWT" begins with a typical uneventful night at a small-town ER dental clinic. Marie, an ambitious and underutilized dental assistant, is dying to prove herself. Desperate to escape the drab monotony of the small-town clientele, she takes frequent risks and shortcuts to help others, to the discontent of her coworkers, Gloria and Dr. Che.
So when a Strange Girl walks into the clinic at closing, unable to speak, in pain, and terrified, Marie seizes her chance to make a difference. Against better judgement –and hospital policy– Marie sneaks the girl into the clinic, closing up behind her.
However, once the examination begins, the Strange Girl’s odd behavior starts to concern Marie, and when Dr. Che discovers the under-the-table operation, the exam becomes a tense standoff as Dr. Che, Marie, and the Strange Girl struggle for control of the quickly spiraling situation.
But the Strange Girl has a monstrous secret hiding in her mouth, and when Dr. Che falls victim to it, Marie is locked in a frightening confrontation where she must decide who she is: a hero, a coward…or a monster?
Donations to this campaign will bring "RHAWT" to the next level.
"RHAWT" is an indie short film production, hiring and shooting locally in the heart of Hollywood: Los Angeles, CA. Donating to "RHAWT" is a direct investment in Los Angeles' rising generation of indie horror filmmakers.
We are set to shoot on AUGUST 15th and AUGUST 16th, 2026. Location is LOCKED and we are finalizing our insurance, gear list, and crew.
This film is happening, rain or shine!
Our campaign is strictly targeted on the final funds we need to make this project truly great.
⬇ LIKE THESE!⬇
You've seen this little pie graph before, a million times!
Each piece of the pie is essential, funding an arm of production, like....
Bringing our locations to life with set dressing, props, and lighting!
GOOD meals and snacks, for our hardworking cast and crew!
Pre-visualizer scouting, meticulous overheads to maximize our two-day shooting window.
If we exceed our goal, the much-needed additional funds will go towards production and post-production costs, increasing our production quality, and boosting reach through film festival submissions.
✪ THE GOAL ✪
Our goal is to achieve a 2027 festival run, geared towards domestic and international festivals that specialize in horror selections, like Canada's Fantasia, Spain's Sitges, Tribeca's Midnight Madness category, and of course, our heavy hitter dream festivals like SXSW and Sundance we feel "RHAWT" can be a smash hit amongst the genre categories as a woman-centered, compact, frightening ride.
We then will release the short on a video-on-demand platform for free viewing, like YouTube, at the end of 2027 so everyone can watch and enjoy the nightmare!
Can't wait until then?
Check out some of our incentives and perks for exclusive early-access viewings coming December 2026!
Now, a sneak peek of what to look forward to in "RHAWT"...
Slow zooms. The dingy, flickering lights of a clinic well past its prime. Locked off shots that oppress our characters.
Grotesque and bloody practical effects that are simply inescapable.
There are no shadows to hide the monster you'll encounter in "RHAWT".
Each movement, uneasy glance, and grisly tooth will be a feast for the eyes. We take inspiration from gritty 2010s horror movie practical-motivated lighting, blunt grime, and characters that feel dangerously personal.
With a sub-7 minute runtime, no moment will be wasted.
Tension, precision, and understated anxiety is the core of this short.
The film is an experiment on its subjects, suffocating the viewer with feelings of unease that inevitably spiral into panic at their certain doom. They are watched, tested, and, and ultimately destroyed by the evil at arm’s length. In their final moments, all they have is one choice: who will they be?
FUN FACT: Did you know our director, Lily Bones, originally wanted to be a sound designer?
Sound design is the lifeblood of "RHAWT".
Each tense measured breath and fleshy gooey tear brings the magic of survival horror to life. The air in the dental clinic will feel thick, every word too close for comfort, and our gory payoffs deliciously rotten.
Given that the concept of "RHAWT" is deeply rooted in themes of instinct and power, our sound design will utilize a mix of juicy animalistic foley melded with catalogues of various wildlife to craft the sounds of our monster.
One creature in particular we are drawing inspiration from is the Channel-Billed Cuckoo, (the largest cuckoo bird on Earth). A little sneak-peak exclusive teaser for you diligent readers here: take a listen to this mighty beast!
MEET MARIE: Lauryn McCardell
Lauryn McCardell is a Texas-born actress with a unique passion and unrivaled zest towards the world of film and TV. She is most recognized for her role in Britt Banks’s We Are Not Okay produced by TDE Films. A former soccer player and two time Junior Olympic invitee, she left the world of athletics behind when she discovered an undeniable attraction to the arts. She is beyond thrilled and honored to be a part of this incredible film!
MEET DR. CHE: Allison Scagliotti
Industry veteran Allison Scagliotti is best known for her series regular roles on Warehouse 13 and Stitchers, as well as recurring and guest star appearances on The Vampire Diaries, Smallville, One Tree Hill, and Drake & Josh. Her stage credits include the Off-Broadway production of Jasper in Deadland, and most recently An Old Fashioned Family Murder featuring Sally Struthers at George Street Playhouse. In addition to acting, she has directed episodic television and short films and plays guitar in a rotating cast of Los Angeles rock bands.
Instagram: @wittyhandle
MEET GLORIA: Bernadette Pérez
Bernadette Pérez is a Mexican American, LGBTQ+, Bicoastal Actress originally from East Chicago. She began her career in the theater at age twelve. She trained with the legendary New York Acting Coach Janet Alhanti and at The Groundlings School. She works in film and television, and regularly campaigns for equality in the LGBTQ+ community, at-risk youth, and diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry.
Instagram: @bernadettethebrat
"RHAWT" was born out of a desire to explore the anxieties a lot of young people feel in their lives, feeling underutilized, experiencing an acute lack of community and belonging, and desperation for the chance to feel like they've "made it." I can truly relate to each character in this story.
The emphasis on the mouth and teeth is a near-universal symbol of vulnerability, power, and anxiety. An oracle, a weapon to bite, a device to manipulate. We all have one!
And for the record, I actually love going to the dentist! I find it really relaxing, like a spa. Just lying back, getting my teeth cleaned. It's wonderful."
-- Lily Bones, Writer & Director
"Me, on set. Doing cool stuff!" -- Lily Bones
We’ve all felt like if we just had a chance to prove we were capable and in control, if that certain someone could be convinced we were worthy, we might be gifted that next step up the ladder. Romantically, professionally, convincing your mom to have ice cream for dinner.
Performance feels directly linked to our survival.
The economic desperation growing among us, coupled with the increasing disillusionment with the “working hard and playing the game” mentality, has created a wild west where people are hunting for any way to make it. On top of this, we’re all on our personal journeys to figure out who we are, and play that part in our own lives. What if we packaged that turmoil in a sub-7 minute horror experience? That’s “RHAWT”.
Thank you so much for reading about the little nightmare "RHAWT".
It's truly a dream and an honor to be bringing this story to life. :)
1. Follow this campaign and stay up to date with any news and goals we may share! We'll be posting production & post-production updates on Seed & Spark as well as on our director's instagram: @bon.lily.
2. Contribute and pledge. Seed and Spark requires at least 80% of our goal in 30 days to receive any of the funds we raise. We have a number of incentives for all budgets (limited in number!). Even a few bucks will make an impact. Your support is greatly appreciated. <3
3. Spread the word. Even if you can’t donate, sharing our campaign is a great way to support indie filmmakers. Please share via social media, email, word of mouth, or however you can!
Not sure what to say? I'll give you something to say!
"New scary short fundraiser just dropped! The best part? It's already being made! They just need help getting across the finish line :) check them out at www.seedandspark.com/fund/rhawt"
"Remember Lily Bones, the person who know who loves horror the most? They're making a scary dentist short film! check them out at seedandspark.com/fund/rhawt and follow them on IG: @bon.lily for updates!"
"BOO! The Bones is back again with another nightmare for you: "RHAWT"! Check out our project at seedandspark.com/fund/rhawt and follow Bones on IG: @bon.lily for updates!"
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Grisly Special Effects
Costs $1,200
Do you love blood, teeth, and making the stuff of nightmares come to life? Consider pledging to our practical special effects team here!
Labor Cost + Feedings
Costs $2,500
We want our excellent cast & crew well-fed and teethy! If you love food and a good night's rest, consider contributing to this pledge.
Post Production Galore
Costs $1,200
Sound. Color. An extra splash of blood delivered via pixels. If you think the sound is scarier than the screen, consider a pledge here!
Lights! Camera! CAMERA!
Costs $1,100
Art is not dead. It's also not cheap! Help us get the gear we need to make this project stand out. Gear fanatics, rise up!
Cash Pledge Chum Bucket
Costs $1
This wishlist tier is for those who don't want to think about what exactly they want to contribute to for "RHAWT". THE CHUM BUCKET!
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
"RHAWT" is helmed by an excellent team of Los Angeles filmmakers, faces known and new, to execute the story. We are a mix of industry veterans, USC alumni, and all-around scary movie lovers.
Get to know us more here!
Lily Bones Fay-Velazquez
Writer, Director, Producer - "RHAWT"
Lily Bones is a Los Angeles based Puerto Rican writer-director from USC's School of Cinematic Arts. They specialize in horror media that explores themes of metamorphosis, the struggle to belong, and human resilience in the face of mortality.
With 5+ years of industry experience in short form, commercial, and music video production, Lily is passionate about bringing real careers in the arts to first-generation and underrepresented talent.
Zehua Yang
Director of Photography - "RHAWT"
I’m Zehua Yang, a cinematographer based in Los Angeles, with a background that spans both the US and China. My journey into cinematography began with a passion for visual storytelling, and I’ve since worked on a range of projects from documentaries to commercials. These experiences have shaped my approach, allowing me to capture meaningful imagery that connects with audiences.
I’ve had the honor of showcasing my work at film festivals like NFFTY, Palm Springs, and Berlin Short Awards etc. I love working across different styles—whether it’s the heartfelt moments of a documentary, the fast pace of a commercial, or the creative shots in a music video. My goal is always to tell a story through images that feel real and engaging.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
"RHAWT" begins with a typical uneventful night at a small-town ER dental clinic. Marie, an ambitious and underutilized dental assistant, is dying to prove herself. Desperate to escape the drab monotony of the small-town clientele, she takes frequent risks and shortcuts to help others, to the discontent of her coworkers, Gloria and Dr. Che.
So when a Strange Girl walks into the clinic at closing, unable to speak, in pain, and terrified, Marie seizes her chance to make a difference. Against better judgement –and hospital policy– Marie sneaks the girl into the clinic, closing up behind her.
However, once the examination begins, the Strange Girl’s odd behavior starts to concern Marie, and when Dr. Che discovers the under-the-table operation, the exam becomes a tense standoff as Dr. Che, Marie, and the Strange Girl struggle for control of the quickly spiraling situation.
But the Strange Girl has a monstrous secret hiding in her mouth, and when Dr. Che falls victim to it, Marie is locked in a frightening confrontation where she must decide who she is: a hero, a coward…or a monster?
Donations to this campaign will bring "RHAWT" to the next level.
"RHAWT" is an indie short film production, hiring and shooting locally in the heart of Hollywood: Los Angeles, CA. Donating to "RHAWT" is a direct investment in Los Angeles' rising generation of indie horror filmmakers.
We are set to shoot on AUGUST 15th and AUGUST 16th, 2026. Location is LOCKED and we are finalizing our insurance, gear list, and crew.
This film is happening, rain or shine!
Our campaign is strictly targeted on the final funds we need to make this project truly great.
⬇ LIKE THESE!⬇
You've seen this little pie graph before, a million times!
Each piece of the pie is essential, funding an arm of production, like....
Bringing our locations to life with set dressing, props, and lighting!
GOOD meals and snacks, for our hardworking cast and crew!
Pre-visualizer scouting, meticulous overheads to maximize our two-day shooting window.
If we exceed our goal, the much-needed additional funds will go towards production and post-production costs, increasing our production quality, and boosting reach through film festival submissions.
✪ THE GOAL ✪
Our goal is to achieve a 2027 festival run, geared towards domestic and international festivals that specialize in horror selections, like Canada's Fantasia, Spain's Sitges, Tribeca's Midnight Madness category, and of course, our heavy hitter dream festivals like SXSW and Sundance we feel "RHAWT" can be a smash hit amongst the genre categories as a woman-centered, compact, frightening ride.
We then will release the short on a video-on-demand platform for free viewing, like YouTube, at the end of 2027 so everyone can watch and enjoy the nightmare!
Can't wait until then?
Check out some of our incentives and perks for exclusive early-access viewings coming December 2026!
Now, a sneak peek of what to look forward to in "RHAWT"...
Slow zooms. The dingy, flickering lights of a clinic well past its prime. Locked off shots that oppress our characters.
Grotesque and bloody practical effects that are simply inescapable.
There are no shadows to hide the monster you'll encounter in "RHAWT".
Each movement, uneasy glance, and grisly tooth will be a feast for the eyes. We take inspiration from gritty 2010s horror movie practical-motivated lighting, blunt grime, and characters that feel dangerously personal.
With a sub-7 minute runtime, no moment will be wasted.
Tension, precision, and understated anxiety is the core of this short.
The film is an experiment on its subjects, suffocating the viewer with feelings of unease that inevitably spiral into panic at their certain doom. They are watched, tested, and, and ultimately destroyed by the evil at arm’s length. In their final moments, all they have is one choice: who will they be?
FUN FACT: Did you know our director, Lily Bones, originally wanted to be a sound designer?
Sound design is the lifeblood of "RHAWT".
Each tense measured breath and fleshy gooey tear brings the magic of survival horror to life. The air in the dental clinic will feel thick, every word too close for comfort, and our gory payoffs deliciously rotten.
Given that the concept of "RHAWT" is deeply rooted in themes of instinct and power, our sound design will utilize a mix of juicy animalistic foley melded with catalogues of various wildlife to craft the sounds of our monster.
One creature in particular we are drawing inspiration from is the Channel-Billed Cuckoo, (the largest cuckoo bird on Earth). A little sneak-peak exclusive teaser for you diligent readers here: take a listen to this mighty beast!
MEET MARIE: Lauryn McCardell
Lauryn McCardell is a Texas-born actress with a unique passion and unrivaled zest towards the world of film and TV. She is most recognized for her role in Britt Banks’s We Are Not Okay produced by TDE Films. A former soccer player and two time Junior Olympic invitee, she left the world of athletics behind when she discovered an undeniable attraction to the arts. She is beyond thrilled and honored to be a part of this incredible film!
MEET DR. CHE: Allison Scagliotti
Industry veteran Allison Scagliotti is best known for her series regular roles on Warehouse 13 and Stitchers, as well as recurring and guest star appearances on The Vampire Diaries, Smallville, One Tree Hill, and Drake & Josh. Her stage credits include the Off-Broadway production of Jasper in Deadland, and most recently An Old Fashioned Family Murder featuring Sally Struthers at George Street Playhouse. In addition to acting, she has directed episodic television and short films and plays guitar in a rotating cast of Los Angeles rock bands.
Instagram: @wittyhandle
MEET GLORIA: Bernadette Pérez
Bernadette Pérez is a Mexican American, LGBTQ+, Bicoastal Actress originally from East Chicago. She began her career in the theater at age twelve. She trained with the legendary New York Acting Coach Janet Alhanti and at The Groundlings School. She works in film and television, and regularly campaigns for equality in the LGBTQ+ community, at-risk youth, and diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry.
Instagram: @bernadettethebrat
"RHAWT" was born out of a desire to explore the anxieties a lot of young people feel in their lives, feeling underutilized, experiencing an acute lack of community and belonging, and desperation for the chance to feel like they've "made it." I can truly relate to each character in this story.
The emphasis on the mouth and teeth is a near-universal symbol of vulnerability, power, and anxiety. An oracle, a weapon to bite, a device to manipulate. We all have one!
And for the record, I actually love going to the dentist! I find it really relaxing, like a spa. Just lying back, getting my teeth cleaned. It's wonderful."
-- Lily Bones, Writer & Director
"Me, on set. Doing cool stuff!" -- Lily Bones
We’ve all felt like if we just had a chance to prove we were capable and in control, if that certain someone could be convinced we were worthy, we might be gifted that next step up the ladder. Romantically, professionally, convincing your mom to have ice cream for dinner.
Performance feels directly linked to our survival.
The economic desperation growing among us, coupled with the increasing disillusionment with the “working hard and playing the game” mentality, has created a wild west where people are hunting for any way to make it. On top of this, we’re all on our personal journeys to figure out who we are, and play that part in our own lives. What if we packaged that turmoil in a sub-7 minute horror experience? That’s “RHAWT”.
Thank you so much for reading about the little nightmare "RHAWT".
It's truly a dream and an honor to be bringing this story to life. :)
1. Follow this campaign and stay up to date with any news and goals we may share! We'll be posting production & post-production updates on Seed & Spark as well as on our director's instagram: @bon.lily.
2. Contribute and pledge. Seed and Spark requires at least 80% of our goal in 30 days to receive any of the funds we raise. We have a number of incentives for all budgets (limited in number!). Even a few bucks will make an impact. Your support is greatly appreciated. <3
3. Spread the word. Even if you can’t donate, sharing our campaign is a great way to support indie filmmakers. Please share via social media, email, word of mouth, or however you can!
Not sure what to say? I'll give you something to say!
"New scary short fundraiser just dropped! The best part? It's already being made! They just need help getting across the finish line :) check them out at www.seedandspark.com/fund/rhawt"
"Remember Lily Bones, the person who know who loves horror the most? They're making a scary dentist short film! check them out at seedandspark.com/fund/rhawt and follow them on IG: @bon.lily for updates!"
"BOO! The Bones is back again with another nightmare for you: "RHAWT"! Check out our project at seedandspark.com/fund/rhawt and follow Bones on IG: @bon.lily for updates!"
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Grisly Special Effects
Costs $1,200
Do you love blood, teeth, and making the stuff of nightmares come to life? Consider pledging to our practical special effects team here!
Labor Cost + Feedings
Costs $2,500
We want our excellent cast & crew well-fed and teethy! If you love food and a good night's rest, consider contributing to this pledge.
Post Production Galore
Costs $1,200
Sound. Color. An extra splash of blood delivered via pixels. If you think the sound is scarier than the screen, consider a pledge here!
Lights! Camera! CAMERA!
Costs $1,100
Art is not dead. It's also not cheap! Help us get the gear we need to make this project stand out. Gear fanatics, rise up!
Cash Pledge Chum Bucket
Costs $1
This wishlist tier is for those who don't want to think about what exactly they want to contribute to for "RHAWT". THE CHUM BUCKET!
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
"RHAWT" is helmed by an excellent team of Los Angeles filmmakers, faces known and new, to execute the story. We are a mix of industry veterans, USC alumni, and all-around scary movie lovers.
Get to know us more here!
Lily Bones Fay-Velazquez
Writer, Director, Producer - "RHAWT"
Lily Bones is a Los Angeles based Puerto Rican writer-director from USC's School of Cinematic Arts. They specialize in horror media that explores themes of metamorphosis, the struggle to belong, and human resilience in the face of mortality.
With 5+ years of industry experience in short form, commercial, and music video production, Lily is passionate about bringing real careers in the arts to first-generation and underrepresented talent.
Zehua Yang
Director of Photography - "RHAWT"
I’m Zehua Yang, a cinematographer based in Los Angeles, with a background that spans both the US and China. My journey into cinematography began with a passion for visual storytelling, and I’ve since worked on a range of projects from documentaries to commercials. These experiences have shaped my approach, allowing me to capture meaningful imagery that connects with audiences.
I’ve had the honor of showcasing my work at film festivals like NFFTY, Palm Springs, and Berlin Short Awards etc. I love working across different styles—whether it’s the heartfelt moments of a documentary, the fast pace of a commercial, or the creative shots in a music video. My goal is always to tell a story through images that feel real and engaging.