Short Thin Lines by Martha Millan
New York City, New York | Film Short
Comedy, Drama
One callback away from a life-changing break, an actress must outrun her messy past before it collides with her future in the room.
Short Thin Lines by Martha Millan
New York City, New York | Film Short
Comedy, Drama
1 Campaigns | New York, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $7,113 for post-production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
25 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
One callback away from a life-changing break, an actress must outrun her messy past before it collides with her future in the room.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
- Short Thin Lines is a visceral journey through a single, high-stakes day in the life of Kathy Valez, (Martha Millan) a Filipina, but often considered an "ethnically ambiguous" actress navigating the fast-paced and unpredictable landscape of the New York City casting circuit pre-COVID. While the world sees a woman one callback away from a life-changing break, the reality is far more fragile.
(Michelle Park and Martha Millan)
Short Thin Lines explores the "thin lines" we cross to survive—the line between ambition and addiction, between the personas we project and the trauma we hide, and the literal lines Kathy uses to numb the weight of a past that refuses to stay buried.
- It’s a dark, unfiltered comedy set pre-COVID (when actors still went to in-person auditions). It’s about Kathy Valez and what an 'ethnically ambiguous actress' dealt with at that time, or even still now.
- There was the specific kind of ambiguous rejection—not Asian enough, not Latina enough, her being Filipino—from an industry that didn’t know how to place her.
- The story follows Kathy’s journey, exploring the mental toll that ambiguous rejection takes on her, issues of identity, and the lack of diverse representation back then… all through a dark, humorous lens.
- Amidst all the chaos of the hustle, we see the one grounding force in Kathy’s life: her "ride-or-die" friendship with Kendra Phillips (Liza Weil). Their bond represents the survivalist sisterhood of the New York acting scene—a connection built on raw honesty, shared dreams, and "Nachos and D" combos.
- As Kathy numbs her trauma, a crisis from Kendra forces her to confront the limits of her "functional" habit and their bond reveals the struggle of showing up for others while trying not to fall through the cracks yourself.
- It's so important to be a part of the movement/progression of diverse representation in the entertainment industry, although there’s still a long way to go.
- When I wrote this back then, I wasn’t working at all because of the limited roles I could audition for, so I was just writing in the hopes that I could write myself a role... hehehe.
- But there’s still a "grey area" (2023 UCLA Hollywood Diversity) in the industry that needs to be addressed, and that’s just part of the journey. Making this film shines a light on the hurdles women of color face in entertainment. We aim to normalize representation by bringing these stories to the forefront; every film like this brings us one step closer to that goal.
Through the lens of Kathy’s dry humor and biting sarcasm, we witness the hilarious absurdity of the hustle—like a high-stakes Cha-Cha battle for a feminine hygiene commercial—colliding with the heartbreaking reality of a woman on the brink of a breakdown. This is an unapologetic look at what it takes to survive the "Short Thin Lines" of the human experience. Starring Martha Millan (The Cleaning Lady, The Gentlemen) Liza Weil (Gilmore Girls, How to Get Away With Murder) and currently in post-production with industry veteran editor Diva Magpayo (Jurassic Park III, Hulk, The Cleaning Lady) whose expert eye is bringing Kathy’s story to its final, cinematic form.
The purpose of this campaign is to provide Short Thin Lines with the professional runway it deserves. We have already committed a significant portion of our own funds to capture the raw, honest heart of this story on camera—now, we need your help to bring it to life.
Our Timeline
- With our industry-veteran editor, Diva Magpayo, already at work, we are moving fast. Your support ensures her world-class work is matched by professional sound design and color grading.
- Post-Production: April – June 2026 (approximately)
- Festival Submission Phase: July 2026 (approximately)
- Audience Premiere: We anticipate our first private backer screening in approximately in Winter 2026, with festival screenings to follow throughout 2027.
Where Your Contribution Goes
- Our total goal is $6,000, but on Seed & Spark, we only need to reach 80% ($4,800) to "Green Light" the project and keep the funds. Reaching this milestone ensures Short Thin Lines is finished at a world-class level, covering:
- Finalizing editing, the cinematic color grade and high end sound mix.
- Mastering the DCP for theatrical projection.
- Initial submission fees for top-tier domestic and international film festivals."
Stretch Goals:
If We Hit 100%+ If we surpass our goal, every extra dollar goes directly into The Expansion Fund. This includes a larger festival budget, marketing materials and the development of the Thin Lines series expansion.
- This short film isn’t just a project; it’s a refusal to be invisible. We need more than just funds—we need a community.
- Pledge: Every dollar brings us closer to the finish line.
- Follow: Hit the "Follow" button on this page! It helps us unlock Seed & Spark creator perks.
- Share: Copy and paste the text below to your social media!
- Social Media Copy-Paste:
- "Short Thin Lines" in post-production: seedandspark.com/fund/short-thin-lines-1
- #ShortThinLines #IndieFilm #WomenInFilm
Yanina May Cinematographer/Director Marcel Paige Sound Recordist
Martha Millan - Writer / Producer
Liza Weil - Producer
Claudine Millan - Executive Producer
Diva Magpayo - Editor
Yanina May - Cinematographer / Director
Marcel Paige - Sound Recordist
Kathy Valez - Martha Millan
Kendra Phillips - Liza Weil
Michelle Lao - Michelle Park
Ashton Childe - Christian Robinson
Dave - Shareef Taher
Tania Beckford - Lauren Molina
Jalissa - Sonya La Torre
*Best Dark Comedy Script | New York International Film Awards 2025 February Monthly Edition
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Lead Editor Honorarium
Costs $3,000
A creative stipend for our veteran editor. This honors their artistry at a favored indie rate, as their studio scale is normally higher.
Cinematic Sound & Original Score
Costs $1,500
Professional sound mix & licensing to weave the NYC hustle with a driving indie-electronic pulse. Pledge or donate services for credit!"
Festival & DCP
Costs $500
Covers A-list entry fees and DCP mastering. Seeking cash or in-kind tech services to get Short Thin Lines onto the big screen. Let’s go!
High-End Color Grading (Professional Service)
Costs $1,000
Seeking professional colorist for final polish. Fulfill via cash pledge or donated services for a ‘Colorist’ credit. Help us finish!
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Martha Millan - Writer, Producer, Kathy
Martha Millan is an actress best known for her role as Fiona De La Rosa on FOX/WBTV’s The Cleaning Lady—a performance that has earned Honorable Mentions from the Gracie Awards, presented by the AWM Foundation. She also appeared as Mercy in Guy Ritchie’s Netflix series The Gentlemen and recently worked on Apple TV+’s Cape Fear, produced by Steven Spielberg and Martin Scorsese. Born in the Philippines and raised in Australia, she studied at the University of Sydney before graduating from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York, launching an international career across film and television. She is also the founder of Nice AF Productions, dedicated to developing bold, inclusive, character-driven stories for film and television.
Liza Weil - Producer, Kendra
Liza Weil is an American actress celebrated for her ability to portray fiercely intelligent, complex, and often acerbic characters. Raised in a theatrical family in New Jersey, she spent her youth on the stage before landing her definitive breakout role as the high-strung Paris Geller on Gilmore Girls (2000–2007), a part specifically written for her by creator Amy Sherman-Palladino. Weil later successfully transitioned from cult-favorite comedy to prestige drama, becoming a central figure in the Shondaland universe as the steely and secretive Bonnie Winterbottom on How to Get Away with Murder. Known for her sharp comedic timing and intense dramatic range, she has remained a mainstay of television, recently appearing in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and The Cleaning Lady.
Claudine Millan - Executive Producer
A New York-based leader with over 20 years of global experience in banking and finance, Claudine Millan brings a wealth of expertise to the Short Thin Lines production team. Born in the Philippines and raised in Australia, her career has spanned continents, where she has led complex initiatives and built high-performing teams.
A passionate advocate for innovation and lifelong learning, Claudine is deeply committed to supporting independent storytelling and elevating diverse voices. As Executive Producer, she leverages her leadership experience to help bring this Filipino-led narrative to a global audience.
Diva Magpayo - Editor
Diva Magpayo is an accomplished television and film editor with a career spanning over two decades of high-profile storytelling. A graduate of Stanford University and the American Film Institute (AFI), she began her professional journey at Hawaii’s CPBS affiliate, directing and editing documentaries on the region's diverse ethnic landscape. Magpayo eventually moved into major Hollywood productions, gaining experience as an assistant editor on blockbuster films like Jurassic Park III and the acclaimed drama Eve’s Bayou. As a lead editor, she has contributed to a wide range of projects, including the "Look What She Did" series and various dramatic features, establishing herself as a versatile talent capable of navigating both the technical complexities of visual effects and the nuanced pacing of character-driven drama.
Yanina May - Cinematographer / Director
Yanina May is a New York–based photographer and visual artist with over 20 years of experience creating thoughtful, collaborative work with brands, small businesses, and creative teams. Her photography has been featured in publications such as Vogue Brazil, The Fader, and 1814 Magazine. In recent years, she has explored filmmaking as a producer, cinematographer, writer, and director on a range of short films, including She Was, She Is, She Never Will Be by Sonya LaTorre and Short Thin Lines by Martha Millan. She also collaborated with Lucio Nieto on The Opposites, which received a Silver Remy Award at the 57th Annual WorldFest Houston International Film Festival in 2024. She is currently developing new photography series inspired by Costa Rica, animals, and specific hobbies, while continuing to work with a growing roster of clients and building StarSeeds Create, a community for neurodivergent artists focused on creativity and wellness.
Marcel Paige - Sound Recordist
Michelle Park - Michelle Lao
Michelle is an NYC-based TV, Film and Theatre actor. Recent film credits include On A String, Love, Music, Shelter, The Woman Who Could Read the Minds of Dogs and Glass. On stage, highlights include the premiere of Point Loma by Tim Mulligan and the NY Premier of Truth Be Told by William Cameron. She is currently in production of the vertical series, Bad Blood. Michelle enjoys training at HB Studio. She lives with her husband, two teenage sons and cavapoo, Story.
Shareef Taher - Dave
A writer for The Onion and finalist in the Yes, And Laughter Lab Competition, Shareef Taher has been showcased at SF SketchFest, Boston Comedy Festival, Vice City Comedy Festivals and can be seen weekly at NYC’s top comedy clubs. As a musician, Shareef has toured globally and performed with artists like Patti LaBelle, Lionel Richie, Harry Connick Jr., and OK Go.
Christian Robinson - Ashton Childe
Christian Robinson is a Buffalo, New York native and multi-instrumentalist based in New York City. He studied music at Michigan State University, where he developed a strong foundation in performance and education. Now living in NYC, Christian is an active performer and educator, enjoying a dynamic career teaching music while regularly gigging across the city in a variety of styles and settings.
Sonya La Torre - Jalissa
Sonya LaTorre is an East Coast-based, neurodivergent actress, writer, director, and award-winning producer with over a decade of experience in the entertainment industry. Her work centers women, identity, and trauma recovery through period-set narratives that are as visually dynamic as they are emotionally resonant. She is currently in development on her early-2000s-set feature film She Was, a haunting exploration of the complexities of teenage friendship, and the long-tail impact of high school sexual assault. The project builds on Sonya’s cinematic voice: character-driven storytelling with an emphasis on naturalistic dialogue, emotional nuance, and thoughtful visual composition. A graduate of The American Musical and Dramatic Academy, Sonya draws on her background in music and dance to inform the rhythm and movement within her visual storytelling. She is also the founder of Script Like You, a mentorship program that helps emerging writers embrace the power of their singular perspective.
Lauren Molina - Tania Beckford
Lauren Molina is a former dancer who moved to New York City from Texas at the age of 16. She has studied with different acting coaches and choreographers in both NYC and LA. She has recently gained experience in theater and commercial work. While still actively acting she has also ventured into music production and sound design. She divides her time now between NYC and Paris.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
- Short Thin Lines is a visceral journey through a single, high-stakes day in the life of Kathy Valez, (Martha Millan) a Filipina, but often considered an "ethnically ambiguous" actress navigating the fast-paced and unpredictable landscape of the New York City casting circuit pre-COVID. While the world sees a woman one callback away from a life-changing break, the reality is far more fragile.
(Michelle Park and Martha Millan)
Short Thin Lines explores the "thin lines" we cross to survive—the line between ambition and addiction, between the personas we project and the trauma we hide, and the literal lines Kathy uses to numb the weight of a past that refuses to stay buried.
- It’s a dark, unfiltered comedy set pre-COVID (when actors still went to in-person auditions). It’s about Kathy Valez and what an 'ethnically ambiguous actress' dealt with at that time, or even still now.
- There was the specific kind of ambiguous rejection—not Asian enough, not Latina enough, her being Filipino—from an industry that didn’t know how to place her.
- The story follows Kathy’s journey, exploring the mental toll that ambiguous rejection takes on her, issues of identity, and the lack of diverse representation back then… all through a dark, humorous lens.
- Amidst all the chaos of the hustle, we see the one grounding force in Kathy’s life: her "ride-or-die" friendship with Kendra Phillips (Liza Weil). Their bond represents the survivalist sisterhood of the New York acting scene—a connection built on raw honesty, shared dreams, and "Nachos and D" combos.
- As Kathy numbs her trauma, a crisis from Kendra forces her to confront the limits of her "functional" habit and their bond reveals the struggle of showing up for others while trying not to fall through the cracks yourself.
- It's so important to be a part of the movement/progression of diverse representation in the entertainment industry, although there’s still a long way to go.
- When I wrote this back then, I wasn’t working at all because of the limited roles I could audition for, so I was just writing in the hopes that I could write myself a role... hehehe.
- But there’s still a "grey area" (2023 UCLA Hollywood Diversity) in the industry that needs to be addressed, and that’s just part of the journey. Making this film shines a light on the hurdles women of color face in entertainment. We aim to normalize representation by bringing these stories to the forefront; every film like this brings us one step closer to that goal.
Through the lens of Kathy’s dry humor and biting sarcasm, we witness the hilarious absurdity of the hustle—like a high-stakes Cha-Cha battle for a feminine hygiene commercial—colliding with the heartbreaking reality of a woman on the brink of a breakdown. This is an unapologetic look at what it takes to survive the "Short Thin Lines" of the human experience. Starring Martha Millan (The Cleaning Lady, The Gentlemen) Liza Weil (Gilmore Girls, How to Get Away With Murder) and currently in post-production with industry veteran editor Diva Magpayo (Jurassic Park III, Hulk, The Cleaning Lady) whose expert eye is bringing Kathy’s story to its final, cinematic form.
The purpose of this campaign is to provide Short Thin Lines with the professional runway it deserves. We have already committed a significant portion of our own funds to capture the raw, honest heart of this story on camera—now, we need your help to bring it to life.
Our Timeline
- With our industry-veteran editor, Diva Magpayo, already at work, we are moving fast. Your support ensures her world-class work is matched by professional sound design and color grading.
- Post-Production: April – June 2026 (approximately)
- Festival Submission Phase: July 2026 (approximately)
- Audience Premiere: We anticipate our first private backer screening in approximately in Winter 2026, with festival screenings to follow throughout 2027.
Where Your Contribution Goes
- Our total goal is $6,000, but on Seed & Spark, we only need to reach 80% ($4,800) to "Green Light" the project and keep the funds. Reaching this milestone ensures Short Thin Lines is finished at a world-class level, covering:
- Finalizing editing, the cinematic color grade and high end sound mix.
- Mastering the DCP for theatrical projection.
- Initial submission fees for top-tier domestic and international film festivals."
Stretch Goals:
If We Hit 100%+ If we surpass our goal, every extra dollar goes directly into The Expansion Fund. This includes a larger festival budget, marketing materials and the development of the Thin Lines series expansion.
- This short film isn’t just a project; it’s a refusal to be invisible. We need more than just funds—we need a community.
- Pledge: Every dollar brings us closer to the finish line.
- Follow: Hit the "Follow" button on this page! It helps us unlock Seed & Spark creator perks.
- Share: Copy and paste the text below to your social media!
- Social Media Copy-Paste:
- "Short Thin Lines" in post-production: seedandspark.com/fund/short-thin-lines-1
- #ShortThinLines #IndieFilm #WomenInFilm
Yanina May Cinematographer/Director Marcel Paige Sound Recordist
Martha Millan - Writer / Producer
Liza Weil - Producer
Claudine Millan - Executive Producer
Diva Magpayo - Editor
Yanina May - Cinematographer / Director
Marcel Paige - Sound Recordist
Kathy Valez - Martha Millan
Kendra Phillips - Liza Weil
Michelle Lao - Michelle Park
Ashton Childe - Christian Robinson
Dave - Shareef Taher
Tania Beckford - Lauren Molina
Jalissa - Sonya La Torre
*Best Dark Comedy Script | New York International Film Awards 2025 February Monthly Edition
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Lead Editor Honorarium
Costs $3,000
A creative stipend for our veteran editor. This honors their artistry at a favored indie rate, as their studio scale is normally higher.
Cinematic Sound & Original Score
Costs $1,500
Professional sound mix & licensing to weave the NYC hustle with a driving indie-electronic pulse. Pledge or donate services for credit!"
Festival & DCP
Costs $500
Covers A-list entry fees and DCP mastering. Seeking cash or in-kind tech services to get Short Thin Lines onto the big screen. Let’s go!
High-End Color Grading (Professional Service)
Costs $1,000
Seeking professional colorist for final polish. Fulfill via cash pledge or donated services for a ‘Colorist’ credit. Help us finish!
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Martha Millan - Writer, Producer, Kathy
Martha Millan is an actress best known for her role as Fiona De La Rosa on FOX/WBTV’s The Cleaning Lady—a performance that has earned Honorable Mentions from the Gracie Awards, presented by the AWM Foundation. She also appeared as Mercy in Guy Ritchie’s Netflix series The Gentlemen and recently worked on Apple TV+’s Cape Fear, produced by Steven Spielberg and Martin Scorsese. Born in the Philippines and raised in Australia, she studied at the University of Sydney before graduating from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York, launching an international career across film and television. She is also the founder of Nice AF Productions, dedicated to developing bold, inclusive, character-driven stories for film and television.
Liza Weil - Producer, Kendra
Liza Weil is an American actress celebrated for her ability to portray fiercely intelligent, complex, and often acerbic characters. Raised in a theatrical family in New Jersey, she spent her youth on the stage before landing her definitive breakout role as the high-strung Paris Geller on Gilmore Girls (2000–2007), a part specifically written for her by creator Amy Sherman-Palladino. Weil later successfully transitioned from cult-favorite comedy to prestige drama, becoming a central figure in the Shondaland universe as the steely and secretive Bonnie Winterbottom on How to Get Away with Murder. Known for her sharp comedic timing and intense dramatic range, she has remained a mainstay of television, recently appearing in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and The Cleaning Lady.
Claudine Millan - Executive Producer
A New York-based leader with over 20 years of global experience in banking and finance, Claudine Millan brings a wealth of expertise to the Short Thin Lines production team. Born in the Philippines and raised in Australia, her career has spanned continents, where she has led complex initiatives and built high-performing teams.
A passionate advocate for innovation and lifelong learning, Claudine is deeply committed to supporting independent storytelling and elevating diverse voices. As Executive Producer, she leverages her leadership experience to help bring this Filipino-led narrative to a global audience.
Diva Magpayo - Editor
Diva Magpayo is an accomplished television and film editor with a career spanning over two decades of high-profile storytelling. A graduate of Stanford University and the American Film Institute (AFI), she began her professional journey at Hawaii’s CPBS affiliate, directing and editing documentaries on the region's diverse ethnic landscape. Magpayo eventually moved into major Hollywood productions, gaining experience as an assistant editor on blockbuster films like Jurassic Park III and the acclaimed drama Eve’s Bayou. As a lead editor, she has contributed to a wide range of projects, including the "Look What She Did" series and various dramatic features, establishing herself as a versatile talent capable of navigating both the technical complexities of visual effects and the nuanced pacing of character-driven drama.
Yanina May - Cinematographer / Director
Yanina May is a New York–based photographer and visual artist with over 20 years of experience creating thoughtful, collaborative work with brands, small businesses, and creative teams. Her photography has been featured in publications such as Vogue Brazil, The Fader, and 1814 Magazine. In recent years, she has explored filmmaking as a producer, cinematographer, writer, and director on a range of short films, including She Was, She Is, She Never Will Be by Sonya LaTorre and Short Thin Lines by Martha Millan. She also collaborated with Lucio Nieto on The Opposites, which received a Silver Remy Award at the 57th Annual WorldFest Houston International Film Festival in 2024. She is currently developing new photography series inspired by Costa Rica, animals, and specific hobbies, while continuing to work with a growing roster of clients and building StarSeeds Create, a community for neurodivergent artists focused on creativity and wellness.
Marcel Paige - Sound Recordist
Michelle Park - Michelle Lao
Michelle is an NYC-based TV, Film and Theatre actor. Recent film credits include On A String, Love, Music, Shelter, The Woman Who Could Read the Minds of Dogs and Glass. On stage, highlights include the premiere of Point Loma by Tim Mulligan and the NY Premier of Truth Be Told by William Cameron. She is currently in production of the vertical series, Bad Blood. Michelle enjoys training at HB Studio. She lives with her husband, two teenage sons and cavapoo, Story.
Shareef Taher - Dave
A writer for The Onion and finalist in the Yes, And Laughter Lab Competition, Shareef Taher has been showcased at SF SketchFest, Boston Comedy Festival, Vice City Comedy Festivals and can be seen weekly at NYC’s top comedy clubs. As a musician, Shareef has toured globally and performed with artists like Patti LaBelle, Lionel Richie, Harry Connick Jr., and OK Go.
Christian Robinson - Ashton Childe
Christian Robinson is a Buffalo, New York native and multi-instrumentalist based in New York City. He studied music at Michigan State University, where he developed a strong foundation in performance and education. Now living in NYC, Christian is an active performer and educator, enjoying a dynamic career teaching music while regularly gigging across the city in a variety of styles and settings.
Sonya La Torre - Jalissa
Sonya LaTorre is an East Coast-based, neurodivergent actress, writer, director, and award-winning producer with over a decade of experience in the entertainment industry. Her work centers women, identity, and trauma recovery through period-set narratives that are as visually dynamic as they are emotionally resonant. She is currently in development on her early-2000s-set feature film She Was, a haunting exploration of the complexities of teenage friendship, and the long-tail impact of high school sexual assault. The project builds on Sonya’s cinematic voice: character-driven storytelling with an emphasis on naturalistic dialogue, emotional nuance, and thoughtful visual composition. A graduate of The American Musical and Dramatic Academy, Sonya draws on her background in music and dance to inform the rhythm and movement within her visual storytelling. She is also the founder of Script Like You, a mentorship program that helps emerging writers embrace the power of their singular perspective.
Lauren Molina - Tania Beckford
Lauren Molina is a former dancer who moved to New York City from Texas at the age of 16. She has studied with different acting coaches and choreographers in both NYC and LA. She has recently gained experience in theater and commercial work. While still actively acting she has also ventured into music production and sound design. She divides her time now between NYC and Paris.