Riley's Run
Middletown, Connecticut | Film Feature
Comedy, Drama
When a hard-partying guy loses his right to drive, he quite literally runs toward sobriety, swapping bar crawls for marathon training, even as the friends and temptations that fueled his nights threaten to pull him off course.
Riley's Run
Middletown, Connecticut | Film Feature
Comedy, Drama
1 Campaigns | Connecticut, United States
When a hard-partying guy loses his right to drive, he quite literally runs toward sobriety, swapping bar crawls for marathon training, even as the friends and temptations that fueled his nights threaten to pull him off course.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
After relocating to his old college town for a fresh start, 25-year-old Riley Hunter hopes a new job and a reunion with his best friend, Blake, will put his troubled past behind him. But one reckless night of drinking ends with Riley behind the wheel, a DUI arrest, and the realization that he has once again sabotaged his own future.
Riley channels his frustration into running instead of drinking. As he pushes himself physically, Riley must also confront the emotional consequences of his addiction and prove he can be trusted by the people around him.
Blending heartfelt drama, romance, and grounded comedy, Riley's Run is an uplifting coming-of-age story about second chances.
Riley's Run is a heartfelt drama filled with comedy and romance.
The film is a blend of Brittany Runs a Marathon, with dramatic elements similar to Smashed, and some laugh out loud moments like Run Fatboy Run.
Tony Capes is a Mexican-American film maker who got his degree in film studies at Keene State College in 2012. He has worked on projects for Disney, PBS, Discovery, and HGTV.
In 2021, Tony released his 1st short film in seven years that went on to win several awards. In 2026, he released his 1st feature film, She Cries Murder, which made it on Tubi, Fawesome, Plex, and Prime Video. Tony is still working as a director, with several different screenplays written out.
Riley’s Run is a very close story to Tony Capes as a screenwriter and a director.
Late September 2026: Launch our Seed&Spark campaign
Late October 2026: Complete our Seed&Spark campaign
November 2026 - March 2027: Pre-Production
March - November 2027: Principal Photography
March 2027 - March 2028: Post-Production
April 2028: Premiere + Distribution
CAMPAIGN GOAL: $18,000
Why do we need to raise $18K on Seed&Spark to make this film? Because we have incredible artists participating, and we want to pay them all. We have SFX, VFX, union actors, multiple locations, gear rentals, and a crew working on a favored-nations basis to bring this story to life. The costs of making a kick-ass film add up quickly. We want to do right by our team!
STRETCH GOALS
$40,000 - Improved Gear Rentals
$50,000 - Post-Production Costs Covered
$60,000 - PR, Festival, & Marketing Costs Covered
$75,000 - ALL DISTRIBUTION COSTS COVERED + PAY BUMPS FOR CREW!
- Back our campaign! Your dollars directly go to making this film a reality.
- Follow our campaign on Seed&Spark. You'll receive updates from our team and help us unlock rewards on the Seed&Spark platform.
- Spread the word IRL and online! It helps more than you know.
Here's a look behind the scenes of our last project She Cries Murder.
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Production Crew
Costs $10,000
We want to compensate the crew for their fourteen, 10hr days. For most of the crew, working on set is their livelihood.
Cast
Costs $4,000
Great performances are essential to the story. Many of the actors on this production are SAG actors, who require a daily rate.
Food For Cast and Crew
Costs $4,000
People need to eat!
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
MEET THE ARTISTS BEHIND RILEY'S RUN
JOEY AMBROSINI - "Riley Hunter"
A charming but directionless young man trying to rebuild his life after another DUI arrest. Riley is funny, relatable, impulsive, and emotionally vulnerable. He masks insecurity with humor and alcohol but slowly discovers running as an outlet for personal growth. His journey is one of accountability, discipline, and self-worth.
MARIA FRANCO - "Kim Carvalho"
A smart, confident, attractive coworker who catches Riley's attention. Independent and emotionally mature, Kim is cautious about entering another unhealthy relationship. She has natural warmth and wit but isn't afraid to call Riley out on his self-destructive behavior.
JOHNNY SIALIANO - "Jack McCallister"
Riley's landlord and an experienced marathon runner. Wise, disciplined, and quietly compassionate, Jack becomes an unexpected mentor. Though physically slowed by injury, he inspires Riley to embrace running as a healthier lifestyle.
DANA WINE - "Cindy Meyers"
Office manager and Riley's supervisor. Tough but fair, Cindy balances professionalism with dry humor. She expects accountability while quietly rooting for Riley's success.
CHRIS WHITCOMB - "Blake Parsons"
Riley's charismatic best friend. Easygoing, confident, and effortlessly social, Blake helps Riley get a job and gives him a place to stay. Despite encouraging some reckless decisions early on, he genuinely wants Riley to succeed.
KAZUYA FOLGER - "Francis Cruz"
A fashionable, outgoing gay bar regular who unexpectedly becomes Riley's wingman and closest new friend. Sharp, witty, confident, and scene-stealing with impeccable comedic timing. Beneath the humor is genuine loyalty and emotional intelligence.
TONY CAPES - Director, Writer, & Producer
Tony Capes is a Mexican-American film-maker who got his degree in film studies at Keene State College in 2012. He has worked on projects for Disney, PBS, Discovery, and HGTV.
In 2021, Tony released his first short film in seven years that went on to win several awards. In 2026, he released his first feature film, She Cries Murder, which made it on Tubi, Fawesome, Plex, and Prime Video. Tony is still working as a director, with several different screenplays written out.
Riley’s Run is a very close story to Tony Capes as a screenwriter and a director.
JOEY AVENA - Director of Photography
Joey Avena studied film at Quinnipiac University. He has worked over 9 years as an independent freelance cinematographer. His extensive resume includes many independent projects and commercials. Joey’s love for the craft seeps through the lens as he continues to find ways to tell compelling stories through innovative cinematography.
Joey and Tony met on a short film 3 years ago and they have been creating non-stop. Riley's Run will be their 6th project together.
BRANDON PAGLIA - 1st Assistant Director
Brandon Paglia is a dedicated filmmaker and creative entrepreneur who began his journey making short films with friends and family. His passion for filmmaking grew as he honed his skills in editing, visual effects, and storytelling.
In 2021, Brandon took a leap of faith, leaving his bartending job to pursue his creative aspirations full-time. A newfound interest in drone photography led him to help local businesses enhance their brands and reach more customers.
As he worked with clients, his expertise expanded from video production to website design and local SEO, emphasizing the importance of a strong online presence. Today, he leads Paglia Studios, focusing on building lasting relationships and delivering impactful creative work that supports business growth across Rhode Island.
ANDREW KOSARKO - Sound Mixer & Boom Operator
After completing his BFA in Film & Television Production at the Savannah College of Art & Design following a successful internship at Broadway Video (Saturday Night Live, 30 Rock), Andrew Kosarko worked on hundreds of shows as an editor for ESPN while writing, directing and producing his feature film debut, "Digits." Since then he has won dozens of screenplay grand prizes (Haunted) as well as a Grand Jury award for Directing (Madison's Way).
JERMAINE RUSSELL - Producer
Jermaine "JXL" Russell is an American talent manager and producer whose career spans the music and film industries. Russell built his career managing artists and working on numerous mainstream music releases, several of which received industry recognition and accolades.
DANA WINE - Locations Manager
Dana has had a multifaceted career in entertainment. She has appeared in numerous independent films, hosted events, worked in commercials and provided voice-over talent. In addition to acting, Dana is also a writer and director, allowing her to bring her creative vision to life both in front of and behind the camera.
The last shoot of SHE CRIES MURDER 2025
KNEETOE FILMS
RETRO GALAXY CINEMA
AVENA PRODUCTIONS
PAGLIA STUDIOS
JOW FILMS
XTRA LARGE ENTERTAINMENT
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
After relocating to his old college town for a fresh start, 25-year-old Riley Hunter hopes a new job and a reunion with his best friend, Blake, will put his troubled past behind him. But one reckless night of drinking ends with Riley behind the wheel, a DUI arrest, and the realization that he has once again sabotaged his own future.
Riley channels his frustration into running instead of drinking. As he pushes himself physically, Riley must also confront the emotional consequences of his addiction and prove he can be trusted by the people around him.
Blending heartfelt drama, romance, and grounded comedy, Riley's Run is an uplifting coming-of-age story about second chances.
Riley's Run is a heartfelt drama filled with comedy and romance.
The film is a blend of Brittany Runs a Marathon, with dramatic elements similar to Smashed, and some laugh out loud moments like Run Fatboy Run.
Tony Capes is a Mexican-American film maker who got his degree in film studies at Keene State College in 2012. He has worked on projects for Disney, PBS, Discovery, and HGTV.
In 2021, Tony released his 1st short film in seven years that went on to win several awards. In 2026, he released his 1st feature film, She Cries Murder, which made it on Tubi, Fawesome, Plex, and Prime Video. Tony is still working as a director, with several different screenplays written out.
Riley’s Run is a very close story to Tony Capes as a screenwriter and a director.
Late September 2026: Launch our Seed&Spark campaign
Late October 2026: Complete our Seed&Spark campaign
November 2026 - March 2027: Pre-Production
March - November 2027: Principal Photography
March 2027 - March 2028: Post-Production
April 2028: Premiere + Distribution
CAMPAIGN GOAL: $18,000
Why do we need to raise $18K on Seed&Spark to make this film? Because we have incredible artists participating, and we want to pay them all. We have SFX, VFX, union actors, multiple locations, gear rentals, and a crew working on a favored-nations basis to bring this story to life. The costs of making a kick-ass film add up quickly. We want to do right by our team!
STRETCH GOALS
$40,000 - Improved Gear Rentals
$50,000 - Post-Production Costs Covered
$60,000 - PR, Festival, & Marketing Costs Covered
$75,000 - ALL DISTRIBUTION COSTS COVERED + PAY BUMPS FOR CREW!
- Back our campaign! Your dollars directly go to making this film a reality.
- Follow our campaign on Seed&Spark. You'll receive updates from our team and help us unlock rewards on the Seed&Spark platform.
- Spread the word IRL and online! It helps more than you know.
Here's a look behind the scenes of our last project She Cries Murder.
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Production Crew
Costs $10,000
We want to compensate the crew for their fourteen, 10hr days. For most of the crew, working on set is their livelihood.
Cast
Costs $4,000
Great performances are essential to the story. Many of the actors on this production are SAG actors, who require a daily rate.
Food For Cast and Crew
Costs $4,000
People need to eat!
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
MEET THE ARTISTS BEHIND RILEY'S RUN
JOEY AMBROSINI - "Riley Hunter"
A charming but directionless young man trying to rebuild his life after another DUI arrest. Riley is funny, relatable, impulsive, and emotionally vulnerable. He masks insecurity with humor and alcohol but slowly discovers running as an outlet for personal growth. His journey is one of accountability, discipline, and self-worth.
MARIA FRANCO - "Kim Carvalho"
A smart, confident, attractive coworker who catches Riley's attention. Independent and emotionally mature, Kim is cautious about entering another unhealthy relationship. She has natural warmth and wit but isn't afraid to call Riley out on his self-destructive behavior.
JOHNNY SIALIANO - "Jack McCallister"
Riley's landlord and an experienced marathon runner. Wise, disciplined, and quietly compassionate, Jack becomes an unexpected mentor. Though physically slowed by injury, he inspires Riley to embrace running as a healthier lifestyle.
DANA WINE - "Cindy Meyers"
Office manager and Riley's supervisor. Tough but fair, Cindy balances professionalism with dry humor. She expects accountability while quietly rooting for Riley's success.
CHRIS WHITCOMB - "Blake Parsons"
Riley's charismatic best friend. Easygoing, confident, and effortlessly social, Blake helps Riley get a job and gives him a place to stay. Despite encouraging some reckless decisions early on, he genuinely wants Riley to succeed.
KAZUYA FOLGER - "Francis Cruz"
A fashionable, outgoing gay bar regular who unexpectedly becomes Riley's wingman and closest new friend. Sharp, witty, confident, and scene-stealing with impeccable comedic timing. Beneath the humor is genuine loyalty and emotional intelligence.
TONY CAPES - Director, Writer, & Producer
Tony Capes is a Mexican-American film-maker who got his degree in film studies at Keene State College in 2012. He has worked on projects for Disney, PBS, Discovery, and HGTV.
In 2021, Tony released his first short film in seven years that went on to win several awards. In 2026, he released his first feature film, She Cries Murder, which made it on Tubi, Fawesome, Plex, and Prime Video. Tony is still working as a director, with several different screenplays written out.
Riley’s Run is a very close story to Tony Capes as a screenwriter and a director.
JOEY AVENA - Director of Photography
Joey Avena studied film at Quinnipiac University. He has worked over 9 years as an independent freelance cinematographer. His extensive resume includes many independent projects and commercials. Joey’s love for the craft seeps through the lens as he continues to find ways to tell compelling stories through innovative cinematography.
Joey and Tony met on a short film 3 years ago and they have been creating non-stop. Riley's Run will be their 6th project together.
BRANDON PAGLIA - 1st Assistant Director
Brandon Paglia is a dedicated filmmaker and creative entrepreneur who began his journey making short films with friends and family. His passion for filmmaking grew as he honed his skills in editing, visual effects, and storytelling.
In 2021, Brandon took a leap of faith, leaving his bartending job to pursue his creative aspirations full-time. A newfound interest in drone photography led him to help local businesses enhance their brands and reach more customers.
As he worked with clients, his expertise expanded from video production to website design and local SEO, emphasizing the importance of a strong online presence. Today, he leads Paglia Studios, focusing on building lasting relationships and delivering impactful creative work that supports business growth across Rhode Island.
ANDREW KOSARKO - Sound Mixer & Boom Operator
After completing his BFA in Film & Television Production at the Savannah College of Art & Design following a successful internship at Broadway Video (Saturday Night Live, 30 Rock), Andrew Kosarko worked on hundreds of shows as an editor for ESPN while writing, directing and producing his feature film debut, "Digits." Since then he has won dozens of screenplay grand prizes (Haunted) as well as a Grand Jury award for Directing (Madison's Way).
JERMAINE RUSSELL - Producer
Jermaine "JXL" Russell is an American talent manager and producer whose career spans the music and film industries. Russell built his career managing artists and working on numerous mainstream music releases, several of which received industry recognition and accolades.
DANA WINE - Locations Manager
Dana has had a multifaceted career in entertainment. She has appeared in numerous independent films, hosted events, worked in commercials and provided voice-over talent. In addition to acting, Dana is also a writer and director, allowing her to bring her creative vision to life both in front of and behind the camera.
The last shoot of SHE CRIES MURDER 2025
KNEETOE FILMS
RETRO GALAXY CINEMA
AVENA PRODUCTIONS
PAGLIA STUDIOS
JOW FILMS
XTRA LARGE ENTERTAINMENT