She Remains
Fort Worth, Texas | Film Feature
Horror, Thriller
A man attends his abusive ex-girlfriend's funeral — and realizes he can't leave her behind. As her presence bleeds back into his life, grief, guilt, and haunting become one. Most horror movies create a monster. She Remains shows you the monsters already living inside all of us.
She Remains
Fort Worth, Texas | Film Feature
Horror, Thriller
1 Campaigns | Texas, United States
3 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
$155
Goal: $5,000 for production
A man attends his abusive ex-girlfriend's funeral — and realizes he can't leave her behind. As her presence bleeds back into his life, grief, guilt, and haunting become one. Most horror movies create a monster. She Remains shows you the monsters already living inside all of us.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
When love dies...
She Remains
We are all haunted by something-our mistakes, our regrets, our worst moments-and it can be so hard to let go of that. That guilt either lifts us or pulls us deeper into our own despair. She Remains is the power of guilt and trauma brought to life.
Synopsis
We meet Zack Fowler, a troubled young man struggling on his healing journey following an abusive relationship. As he wrestles with his feelings of loathing, pain, and guilt, he receives a shocking phone call: his ex, Mia Kellum, has tragically died.
These conflicting feelings lead Zack to attending her funeral, struggling to put on a face for those who mourn her while grappling the pain he endured at her hands. While at this funeral, Zack feels like Mia has not fully left. He feels her presence-only glimpses-lurking. While her life has ended, he can't help but feel like her soul stuck around.
Encouraged by his best friend Elliot Brock, Zack starts moving on from their tumultuous relationship as he meets Eve Rachels, a charming woman who gives Zack everything he never had with Mia. But long after her death, the effects of her abuse haunt him still. Mia begins manifesting herself as a physical obstacle in Zack's life from beyond the grave, forcing Zack to face everything that happened to him, and everything he did to those he cared about. As Zack and Elliot make shocking discoveries about Mia's history with the spiritual realm, the truth about their relationship begins to surface—and what it cost the people who loved him most, including Julia Walker, the only person in his corner while he was at his lowest. With the guidance of his therapist Dr. Grant Casey, Zack fights to hold onto his grip on reality. She Remains builds to a horrifying and devastating climax revealing that the most horrifying monsters aren't the ones that follow us home...
...they are the ones already living inside us.
Why Me?
This is a film I have lived over the last six years. The inspiration came from my own personal experiences in a very similar relationship; not simply what I endured, but also the things I did during that relationship I am not proud of. Not every relationship is black and white; not every relationship has a "good guy" and a "bad guy".
Toxicity breeds toxicity.
Many times, our demons come out because of the environment we find ourselves in. Instead of rising above and overcoming the destructive nature of those environments, we fall and meet the level of the hardships we face. In She Remains, there are no winners or losers, just those affected by the truth. It is the most visceral and haunting portrayal of the classic phrase you will see onscreen: Hurt people hurt people.
But Why this project? Why now?
Horror is at an all-time high with popularity and originality. It opens the door to exploring some of the most difficult themes to digest by elevating some of the most common "horrors" in our own life. She Remains breaks apart the human psyche and creates a terrifying atmosphere by showing just how common these relationships can be; you never know how badly someone is getting traumatized until you experience it firsthand.
We also present a unique perspective when depicting abusive relationships in film. By telling this story through a man's perspective, we expand the conversation around the stigma surrounding men's mental health and the struggles of coming forward as a male victim of abuse. This film shows a man plagued by mental and social obstacles unique to men navigating their mental health journeys. This film is the most honest portrayal of these battles against our own minds, and how they often are never as easy as it may seem.
All around us, the worst examples of people are telling us what it means to be a man. That toxic masculinity is what drives many men to never having the courage to seek help in the first place. Those same behaviors often lead us to torpedo our own lives through our actions that hurt others in order to enrich ourselves.
It is well past time we bring these kinds of stories to life.
How you can help!
Your generosity, along with our committed investors, will help bring She Remains to a strong festival run, theatrical placements, and as many audiences as possible. Every dollar contributes to compensating our talented cast and crew, securing the right equipment to bring this story to life with the production value it deserves, and licensing an original score and soundtrack that serves the film's emotional journey.
If you're reading this, I can guarantee you have either lived this or loved someone who has. She Remains exists to give that experience a voice. Stay close to this project as we bring it to life — every follow, every share, and every contribution moves us forward.
- Share The Moment Productions - @stm_productions_fw
- Official Film Page - @sheremainsmovie
- TikTok
- Official Film Page - @she.remains.movie
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Gallery DeFi "Tarot Concerto" Location Fee
Costs $1,500
Gallery DeFi is home to one of She Remains' pivotal scenes. This covers our location agreement and gets us through the door on shoot day.
Festival Submissions
Costs $1,000
Getting She Remains seen means targeting some amazing festivals, including City of Angels, Popcorn Frights, and many more.
Cast and Crew Accomodations
Costs $2,500
Every person on this crew deserves to be compensated for their work. This fund goes directly to cast and crew costs on She Remains.
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Our cast and crew bring together some of the most talented and creative minds across the DFW area! Let's introduce them!
Samuel J. Ater - Writer/Director
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Samuel Ater is a screenwriter and director based out of Fort Worth, Texas. Since writing his first screenplay at twelve years old, Sam has lived his life as a storyteller. While finishing his Vocal Performance degree at Loyola University New Orleans, he rediscovered his love for writing and began work on She Remains in the fall of 2022. Since then, he wrote Love You Longtime from Blue Tower Studios, as well as writing and directing We Need to Talk for Nonavos. His feature work with She Remains as well as his comedy feature screenplay Best Friends Forever have garnered wins from festivals across the country, including the Blockbuster Screenwriting Competition, Independent Horror Movie Awards, Horrific Hope Film Festival, and New York Script Awards, where he will be serving as a guest jury member this upcoming submission cycle. Sam is honored to be working with such a creative and enthusiastic team for his feature film debut with She Remains and is dedicated to bringing this very personal story to life with the respect and dignity it deserves.
Jake Taylor - Producer
Jake Taylor is a Los Angeles-based film producer with 10 years of experience studying and making films. His most recent short film has earned 7 festival awards, and he is currently in production on three feature films, including the psychological horror She Remains. Jake is the co-founder of ReImagine Indie, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting independent filmmakers by providing resources, community, and a platform to bring their stories to life. Through ReImagine Indie, he works to bridge the gap between emerging filmmakers and the industry access they need to succeed.
Larry Wright - Director of Photography
Larry Wright is a filmmaker and film lover in the DFW area. Since 2010, he has had a camera in his hand and a passion for telling stories and capturing cinematic frames. Larry is primarily a cinematographer (DP) and camera operator but also has begun directing as well. He is excited and appreciative for every opportunity he gets to connect, collab, and create.
Amanda Villatoro - 1st AD
Amanda is a film school grad from the University of North Texas who has worked across commercials, music videos, narrative film, and reality television. Among her notable credits are Ella Langley's Choosin' Texas music video, a 2026 World Cup commercial, a Netflix short film, and an NBA x Booking.com commercial. Amanda is excited to work alongside director Sam Ater as his 1st AD to help bring She Remains to life!
Richie Hidalgo - Zack Fowler
Richie Hidalgo is a multifaceted talent working within the vibrant Dallas-Fort Worth area as an actor, filmmaker, writer, and producer. He's known for his creative endeavors, which he showcases through his film company, Nonavos. This venture operates primarily as a YouTube channel, where Richie shares a variety of content that reflects his passion for storytelling and the arts. His dedication to acting and writing allows him to express his personal experiences and insights, making his work deeply relatable and engaging.
Ella Stichler - Mia Kellum
Ella Stichler is a Los Angeles–based, SAG-Eligible actor known for her emotional depth, versatility, and fearless commitment to storytelling. She has led and supported projects across film and television, with credits including The Gift He Gave Me, Just For The Weekend, The Space Between, Silent Regret, Better Not Write, Rinse Cycle, and The Taming.
A San Diego native now based in Los Angeles, Ella began performing at a young age through dance and theater, later expanding into film and screen acting. With training rooted in Meisner, Chekhov, and Stanislavsky techniques, alongside extensive experience in tap, jazz, hip-hop, Irish dance and musical theater, she brings layered, dynamic performances to both screen and stage.
Ella earned her degree in Film & Entertainment from the University of Alabama, giving her a strong understanding of both the creative and technical sides of filmmaking. Her background behind the camera informs her collaborative approach on set and deepens her connection to story-driven work. Known for portraying emotionally grounded, complex characters, Ella is passionate about projects that challenge audiences, explore human truth, and leave a lasting impact.
EJ Green - Elliot Brock
Hi, I’m EJ Green — actor, professional overthinker, and proud member of the “one more take” community. I’m excited to be part of She Remains, bring Elliot to life, and work with such an amazing team to bring this story to life. When I’m not acting, I’m probably running lines dramatically in my room like I’m accepting an Oscar. Thanks for supporting this incredible film!
Payten Brewer - Eve Rachels
Payten Brewer is an actress, producer, and award-winning filmmaker. A 7th generation Texan, she divides her time between Fort Worth and Los Angeles. Graduating from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in 2017, Payten has since founded the Wild Heart Company — a production company that focuses on making films by Texans for Texans. Payten’s directorial debut, Sister, was awarded Best Western Short Film at the Indie Short Fest in Spring of 2024. She is thrilled to be a part of this project and to help bring Sam’s vision to life!
Lindsey Sinopoli - Julia Walker
Lindsey Sinopoli (She/Her) is a DFW-based actress and visual artist with a B.F.A. in Acting from the University of Texas, Arlington. With just over 10 years of experience, Lindsey adores movement explorative work and developing interesting characters. She has a diverse background in live TV, Mascotting, and Theatre. Beyond her day job as an Insurance Broker in Fort Worth, she is an active member of XI Entertainment and Inkspark Theatre.
Xavier Jones - Dr. Grant Casey
Xavier Jones is a travel critical care paramedic, firefighter, actor, and humanitarian based in Dallas, Texas. Making his feature film debut as Dr. Casey Grant in She Remains, Xavier brings real-world compassion and leadership to the screen through years of service in emergency medicine. His work has also included commercial and television productions, blending storytelling with his passion for impacting lives through service and creative expression.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
When love dies...
She Remains
We are all haunted by something-our mistakes, our regrets, our worst moments-and it can be so hard to let go of that. That guilt either lifts us or pulls us deeper into our own despair. She Remains is the power of guilt and trauma brought to life.
Synopsis
We meet Zack Fowler, a troubled young man struggling on his healing journey following an abusive relationship. As he wrestles with his feelings of loathing, pain, and guilt, he receives a shocking phone call: his ex, Mia Kellum, has tragically died.
These conflicting feelings lead Zack to attending her funeral, struggling to put on a face for those who mourn her while grappling the pain he endured at her hands. While at this funeral, Zack feels like Mia has not fully left. He feels her presence-only glimpses-lurking. While her life has ended, he can't help but feel like her soul stuck around.
Encouraged by his best friend Elliot Brock, Zack starts moving on from their tumultuous relationship as he meets Eve Rachels, a charming woman who gives Zack everything he never had with Mia. But long after her death, the effects of her abuse haunt him still. Mia begins manifesting herself as a physical obstacle in Zack's life from beyond the grave, forcing Zack to face everything that happened to him, and everything he did to those he cared about. As Zack and Elliot make shocking discoveries about Mia's history with the spiritual realm, the truth about their relationship begins to surface—and what it cost the people who loved him most, including Julia Walker, the only person in his corner while he was at his lowest. With the guidance of his therapist Dr. Grant Casey, Zack fights to hold onto his grip on reality. She Remains builds to a horrifying and devastating climax revealing that the most horrifying monsters aren't the ones that follow us home...
...they are the ones already living inside us.
Why Me?
This is a film I have lived over the last six years. The inspiration came from my own personal experiences in a very similar relationship; not simply what I endured, but also the things I did during that relationship I am not proud of. Not every relationship is black and white; not every relationship has a "good guy" and a "bad guy".
Toxicity breeds toxicity.
Many times, our demons come out because of the environment we find ourselves in. Instead of rising above and overcoming the destructive nature of those environments, we fall and meet the level of the hardships we face. In She Remains, there are no winners or losers, just those affected by the truth. It is the most visceral and haunting portrayal of the classic phrase you will see onscreen: Hurt people hurt people.
But Why this project? Why now?
Horror is at an all-time high with popularity and originality. It opens the door to exploring some of the most difficult themes to digest by elevating some of the most common "horrors" in our own life. She Remains breaks apart the human psyche and creates a terrifying atmosphere by showing just how common these relationships can be; you never know how badly someone is getting traumatized until you experience it firsthand.
We also present a unique perspective when depicting abusive relationships in film. By telling this story through a man's perspective, we expand the conversation around the stigma surrounding men's mental health and the struggles of coming forward as a male victim of abuse. This film shows a man plagued by mental and social obstacles unique to men navigating their mental health journeys. This film is the most honest portrayal of these battles against our own minds, and how they often are never as easy as it may seem.
All around us, the worst examples of people are telling us what it means to be a man. That toxic masculinity is what drives many men to never having the courage to seek help in the first place. Those same behaviors often lead us to torpedo our own lives through our actions that hurt others in order to enrich ourselves.
It is well past time we bring these kinds of stories to life.
How you can help!
Your generosity, along with our committed investors, will help bring She Remains to a strong festival run, theatrical placements, and as many audiences as possible. Every dollar contributes to compensating our talented cast and crew, securing the right equipment to bring this story to life with the production value it deserves, and licensing an original score and soundtrack that serves the film's emotional journey.
If you're reading this, I can guarantee you have either lived this or loved someone who has. She Remains exists to give that experience a voice. Stay close to this project as we bring it to life — every follow, every share, and every contribution moves us forward.
- Share The Moment Productions - @stm_productions_fw
- Official Film Page - @sheremainsmovie
- TikTok
- Official Film Page - @she.remains.movie
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Gallery DeFi "Tarot Concerto" Location Fee
Costs $1,500
Gallery DeFi is home to one of She Remains' pivotal scenes. This covers our location agreement and gets us through the door on shoot day.
Festival Submissions
Costs $1,000
Getting She Remains seen means targeting some amazing festivals, including City of Angels, Popcorn Frights, and many more.
Cast and Crew Accomodations
Costs $2,500
Every person on this crew deserves to be compensated for their work. This fund goes directly to cast and crew costs on She Remains.
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Our cast and crew bring together some of the most talented and creative minds across the DFW area! Let's introduce them!
Samuel J. Ater - Writer/Director
Samuel Ater is a screenwriter and director based out of Fort Worth, Texas. Since writing his first screenplay at twelve years old, Sam has lived his life as a storyteller. While finishing his Vocal Performance degree at Loyola University New Orleans, he rediscovered his love for writing and began work on She Remains in the fall of 2022. Since then, he wrote Love You Longtime from Blue Tower Studios, as well as writing and directing We Need to Talk for Nonavos. His feature work with She Remains as well as his comedy feature screenplay Best Friends Forever have garnered wins from festivals across the country, including the Blockbuster Screenwriting Competition, Independent Horror Movie Awards, Horrific Hope Film Festival, and New York Script Awards, where he will be serving as a guest jury member this upcoming submission cycle. Sam is honored to be working with such a creative and enthusiastic team for his feature film debut with She Remains and is dedicated to bringing this very personal story to life with the respect and dignity it deserves.
Jake Taylor - Producer
Jake Taylor is a Los Angeles-based film producer with 10 years of experience studying and making films. His most recent short film has earned 7 festival awards, and he is currently in production on three feature films, including the psychological horror She Remains. Jake is the co-founder of ReImagine Indie, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting independent filmmakers by providing resources, community, and a platform to bring their stories to life. Through ReImagine Indie, he works to bridge the gap between emerging filmmakers and the industry access they need to succeed.
Larry Wright - Director of Photography
Larry Wright is a filmmaker and film lover in the DFW area. Since 2010, he has had a camera in his hand and a passion for telling stories and capturing cinematic frames. Larry is primarily a cinematographer (DP) and camera operator but also has begun directing as well. He is excited and appreciative for every opportunity he gets to connect, collab, and create.
Amanda Villatoro - 1st AD
Amanda is a film school grad from the University of North Texas who has worked across commercials, music videos, narrative film, and reality television. Among her notable credits are Ella Langley's Choosin' Texas music video, a 2026 World Cup commercial, a Netflix short film, and an NBA x Booking.com commercial. Amanda is excited to work alongside director Sam Ater as his 1st AD to help bring She Remains to life!
Richie Hidalgo - Zack Fowler
Richie Hidalgo is a multifaceted talent working within the vibrant Dallas-Fort Worth area as an actor, filmmaker, writer, and producer. He's known for his creative endeavors, which he showcases through his film company, Nonavos. This venture operates primarily as a YouTube channel, where Richie shares a variety of content that reflects his passion for storytelling and the arts. His dedication to acting and writing allows him to express his personal experiences and insights, making his work deeply relatable and engaging.
Ella Stichler - Mia Kellum
Ella Stichler is a Los Angeles–based, SAG-Eligible actor known for her emotional depth, versatility, and fearless commitment to storytelling. She has led and supported projects across film and television, with credits including The Gift He Gave Me, Just For The Weekend, The Space Between, Silent Regret, Better Not Write, Rinse Cycle, and The Taming.
A San Diego native now based in Los Angeles, Ella began performing at a young age through dance and theater, later expanding into film and screen acting. With training rooted in Meisner, Chekhov, and Stanislavsky techniques, alongside extensive experience in tap, jazz, hip-hop, Irish dance and musical theater, she brings layered, dynamic performances to both screen and stage.
Ella earned her degree in Film & Entertainment from the University of Alabama, giving her a strong understanding of both the creative and technical sides of filmmaking. Her background behind the camera informs her collaborative approach on set and deepens her connection to story-driven work. Known for portraying emotionally grounded, complex characters, Ella is passionate about projects that challenge audiences, explore human truth, and leave a lasting impact.
EJ Green - Elliot Brock
Hi, I’m EJ Green — actor, professional overthinker, and proud member of the “one more take” community. I’m excited to be part of She Remains, bring Elliot to life, and work with such an amazing team to bring this story to life. When I’m not acting, I’m probably running lines dramatically in my room like I’m accepting an Oscar. Thanks for supporting this incredible film!
Payten Brewer - Eve Rachels
Payten Brewer is an actress, producer, and award-winning filmmaker. A 7th generation Texan, she divides her time between Fort Worth and Los Angeles. Graduating from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in 2017, Payten has since founded the Wild Heart Company — a production company that focuses on making films by Texans for Texans. Payten’s directorial debut, Sister, was awarded Best Western Short Film at the Indie Short Fest in Spring of 2024. She is thrilled to be a part of this project and to help bring Sam’s vision to life!
Lindsey Sinopoli - Julia Walker
Lindsey Sinopoli (She/Her) is a DFW-based actress and visual artist with a B.F.A. in Acting from the University of Texas, Arlington. With just over 10 years of experience, Lindsey adores movement explorative work and developing interesting characters. She has a diverse background in live TV, Mascotting, and Theatre. Beyond her day job as an Insurance Broker in Fort Worth, she is an active member of XI Entertainment and Inkspark Theatre.
Xavier Jones - Dr. Grant Casey
Xavier Jones is a travel critical care paramedic, firefighter, actor, and humanitarian based in Dallas, Texas. Making his feature film debut as Dr. Casey Grant in She Remains, Xavier brings real-world compassion and leadership to the screen through years of service in emergency medicine. His work has also included commercial and television productions, blending storytelling with his passion for impacting lives through service and creative expression.