Sienna and The Sit
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Comedy, Shorts Program
Everyone goes through heartbreak and we go to extreme lengths to avoid feeling our pain. What gets us through is community and a sense of humor. A story inspired by Scottie's own unique journey through heartbreak, the film explores the challenge of letting go through the lens of spiritual parody.
Sienna and The Sit
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Comedy, Shorts Program
1 Campaigns | California, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $15,683 for post-production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
77 supporters | followers
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Everyone goes through heartbreak and we go to extreme lengths to avoid feeling our pain. What gets us through is community and a sense of humor. A story inspired by Scottie's own unique journey through heartbreak, the film explores the challenge of letting go through the lens of spiritual parody.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Deep heartbreak is like a death. Now imagine you treat it as such, and ask your friends to honor your own broken heart journey as a death. And they acquiesce as much out of desperation to see you move on as anything else, but at the end of the day, heartbreak is universal. Welcome to the world of SIENNA AND THE SIT, a very personal story loosely inspired by my own journey through heartbreak. It was originally inspired by my friend's metaphorical comment that there was nothing left for me to do to get over my ex other than sit Shiva; and I found the concept refreshing. And as someone familiar with spiritual bypassing, I saw the possibility of humor in the cultural appropriation so prevalent in LA. I wanted to tell a story that at once honors the original ritual of the Shiva tradition through the voice of reason of the Jewish friend, while also poking fun at the absurdity of our human need for a quick fix.
As an explorer of healing modalities and a queen of distraction (much like myself), Sienna has tried everything to get past her ex, to no avail. When her friend Ruthie shows up for a potluck, she discovers Sienna took her metaphorical advice literally, and is hosting a Shiva, attended by Sienna's self-absorbed actor friends. Even though everyone finds it ridiculous, they go through with the Shiva because they are all so sick of hearing about the ex. Anything is better than that. Things start to unravel when the special guest guru Linus, a self-proclaimed "Shiva" guide (Hindu god of destruction and death) shows up. Despite Sienna loving the synchronocities of the two Shivas, everything goes awry.
At its core, SIENNA AND THE SIT is a story about the lengths to which we go to avoid our pain, the community that helps us through to the other side, and ultimately our own inner strength. We are in trying times, and experiencing grief on so many levels, from the collective to the personal. And the only way out of the pain is through; we must sit with what is hurting in order to grow. And the most powerful way of doing that is in community, so I feel that while this story is unique and addressing a particular moment in time, it encapsulates a broader appeal at its core. And is important as we as a collective are processing so much grief in today's world. And as the saying goes, a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down, so I wanted to weave together a sense of humor about it all, because that is one of the best ways to navigate pain.
We have finished Physical Production and are now in Post Production. When we complete the film, we will be submitting it to Festivals. We will keep our supporters informed about screenings, and I will be sharing the progress on social media throughout the journey of the film. If we surpass our goal, we will be able to submit to more festivals. Once it is complete we will be sure to let audiences know where they can find screenings and/or streamings.
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Physical Production Paid off Completely
Costs $5,000
Thank you for your support! It helps us pay off remaining elements of physical production that is complete.
Editing
Costs $2,500
This allows us to complete the project which we have already filmed. It is a vital step in the process. Thank you for your support!
Sound Design
Costs $2,000
This element is part of completing a film. It creates the sound environment and sound cues.
Composing
Costs $2,500
This creates the mood of the film and is so important!
Festival Applications and Attendance
Costs $3,000
We hope to make a splash, and your support supports us with that!
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Scottie Thompson
Scottie Thompson is an actress and an activist. She grew up performing on stage as a ballet dancer, and pursued a career as a professional with The Richmond Ballet, the State Ballet of Virginia. She followed her passion for storytelling into a career in film, TV and theater, after completing her undergraduate degree in Performance Studies at Harvard University. She has recurred in series including Bel Air, 12 Monkeys, NCIS, The Blacklist, and MacGyver, among others. Her film credits include Crown Vic, Limbo, Skyline, Star Trek, The Lookalike, and most recently starred alongside Finn Wittrock in Start Without Me and opposite Gabriel Byrne and Thomas Jane in Murder at Yellowstone City, which she also produced. She has appeared on stage recently in a world premiere reading of John Patrick Shanley’s Drop Off at the Marilyn Monroe Theater in Hollywood, as well as in the world premiere of Shanley’s short play On the Terrace. She is thrilled to be helming her first project as a director and writer for Sienna and the Sit.
Brett Dalton
Brett Dalton is perhaps best known for his role as “Agent Grant Ward” in Joss Whedon’s hit ABC series MARVEL'S AGENTS OF S.H.I.E.L.D., for which he received a Teen Choice Award for Best Male Breakout Star. He currently stars opposite Shanola Hampton in NBC’s FOUND. He had a major arc in NBC’s hit long-running series CHICAGO FIRE as well as CBS’s THE EQUALIZER. He previously appeared in Apple TV+’s Sesame Street spinoff, GHOST WRITER and in National Geographic’s KILLING LINCOLN, from producers Tony and Ridley Scott Production. Other television credits include ELEMENTARY, DECEPTION, BLUE BLOODS, and ARMY WIVES.On the big screen, Brett starred as the lead in the independent features THE RESURRECTION OF GAVIN STONE, directed by Dallas Jenkins, LOST IN FLORENCE, directed by Evan Oppenheimer, and BESIDE STILL WATERS, directed by Chris Lowell. Brett has also made a name for himself in the videogame world. He stars in the 2023 BAFTA Award-winning GOD OF WAR: RAGNARÖK.He also starred alongside Rami Malek and a tremendous ensemble cast in the BAFTA Award-winning horror video game UNTIL DAWN for Playstation 4 as well as DESTINY 2: THE WITCH QUEEN. His has lent his voice to a number of animated films and television shows such as JUSTICE LEAGUE: WARWORLD, HAMSTER & GRETEL, SUPERMAN: MAN OF TOMORROW, MILO MURPHY'S LAW, ROBOT CHICKEN, and JAKE AND THE NEVERLAND PIRATES. Dalton has a degree in Art and Theater from UC Berkeley and an MFA in Acting from Yale School of Drama.
Alyshia Ochse
Alyshia Ochse is a multifaceted talent based in Los Angeles, renowned for her versatile roles across television and film. Widely recognized for her compelling portrayal of "Lucy" alongside Matthew McConaughey in HBO's acclaimed series TRUE DETECTIVE, she continues to captivate audiences with her performances. Currently starring in the Hulu/Onyx Studios hit series The Other Black Girl, adapted from the New York Times best-selling novel, Alyshia demonstrates her range as an actress. Her impressive repertoire includes appearances in Emmy-winning productions like #FREERAYSHAWN, as well as popular shows such as HBO's BALLERS, THE PURGE, and LIFE SENTENCE on CW and Netflix. On the big screen, she has left her mark in notable films like THE OTHER WOMAN, MARAUDERS, and SHE'S IN PORTLAND. Beyond acting, Alyshia is a dynamic entrepreneur, hosting the widely acclaimed podcast THAT ONE AUDITION, where she engages in candid conversations with industry luminaries, and co-founding "The Bridge for Actors," a groundbreaking online program designed to empower aspiring actors with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the industry. With an impressive array of accomplishments to her name, Alyshia Ochse continues to shine as an actress, author, podcast host, and dedicated mother.
Meta Golding
Meta Golding is perhaps best known for playing the iconic role of Mrs. Rosa Parks in the NAACP nominated film Behind the Movement . She has appeared in over 100 film and television roles including the hit FOX series Empire, Daybreak, House, Colony, CSI, Criminal Minds,Tomorrow People and the international blockbusters Hunger Games: Catching Fire and Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2, amongst others. She can currently be seen as the lead opposite Kiefer Sutherland in the Paramount + series Rabbit Hole. Meta is a graduate of Cornell University.
Rupak Ginn
Rupak Ginn is a Los Angeles based, New York raised actor, host, and writer. He has performed in seven seasons of USA's ROYAL PAINS, THE STONE WITCH off-Broadway, and various other roles in film and TV including Universal's THE HIGH NOTE, NCIS: LA, SEAL TEAM, and PERSON OF INTEREST. Rupak, who holds a degree in English Literature from Harvard University and an MBA from Columbia University, is also currently the host and co-creator of SPICE ROAD, a food & travel show currently streaming on PBS.
Stephen Bowman
Stephen Bowman is a graduate student of the esteemed American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York. After graduating he found his way back to his hometown of San Francisco performing in the city’s vibrant theater scene, eventually setting out to make his mark in the entertainment capital of Los Angeles. This is where he started auditioning for roles and paying his rent assisting some of the most renowned makeup artists in the entertainment industry, to be near film and video sets, so that he could get the lay of the land. Eventually, he landed a spot as Jeff Lewis' hilariously disgruntled assistant in the Bravo TV series "Flipping Out." Infusing his presence with wit and charm, Bowman's comedic timing earned him acclaim from fans of the show far and wide. Under the guidance of renowned acting coach Leigh Kilton Smith, he refined his craft, leading to appearances in films like "From Zero to I Love You," "The Daughter," and "Five Star Day," among others. With each project, Stephen Bowman continues to captivate audiences and his fellow actors leading them to wonder, “Why is the makeup artist in this scene?” With his magnetic presence and undeniable talent both in front and behind the camera, Stephen definitely has his fingers on the pulse of Hollywood.
Lisa Lee Cooper
Lisa Lee Cooper is honored to join the talented cast and crew of this incredible production. Some of her credits include; Television: "The Powers That Be", directed by Norman Lear. "7th Heaven." Shorts: "Ed", "180", "A Nothing Kind of Day." Various commercials. Theater: "Act 2x2", directed by David Anspaugh. "Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune", World premier of "Reckoning - A Compilation of One Acts from On the Verge of" by Diane Lansing. Lisa has been very fortunate to train with The American Conservatory Theater- San Francisco, Salem Ludwig at HB Studio - New York, Larry Moss - Los Angeles (1990-2018). Nancy Banks - Los Angeles (2017-current).
Sarah Ivy
Sarah Ivy is an award-winning producer and director based in Venice Beach, CA. She began her career in development at Jerry Bruckheimer Films and Television and MTV Films. After working in the production office for the CBS drama Criminal Mindsand assisting top-level executives at Warner Bros., she went on to become Senior Vice President and a Producer at Master Key Productions where she produced international unit shoots for network and cable television shows including Scandal, Covert Affairs, Royal Pains. Her first feature documentary, Do You Dream in Color?, garnered much acclaim and numerous awards on the festival circuit. For the film, she was recipient of the NYWIFT Loreen Arbus Disability Awareness Award and the 2017 Jacob Bolotin Award in recognition achievements of exemplary significance to the blind for her directing work. The film is being distributed by Uncork’d & Dark Horse Entertainment. Sarah recently completed her second feature film, Sk8 Girlz, a documentary following an all-female skateboard team based out of Orange County, CA. With two feature documentaries under her belt, Sarah is excited to return to narrative filmmaking by producing A Small Family Affair and now, Sienna and the Sit. She is a graduate of the USC School of Cinematic Arts in Production.
Leanne Miller
Leanne Miller is a multifaceted professional blending the worlds of cinema and psychology; bringing a unique perspective to storytelling and human connection. Through her dual roles as a seasoned therapist and more recently as a film producer, she strives to explore the complexities of the human experience, sparking conversations and inspiring positive change. Whether through the intimate setting of a therapy session or the captivating narrative of a film, her ultimate goal remains the same: to foster understanding, empathy, and connection in a world that often feels disconnected. Leanne holds a doctorate in international psychology and is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in both California and New York.
Melissa Bickerton
Melissa Bickerton is an Australian actress/singer/producer. She's appeared on hit shows like "LOST", "Criminal Minds" and "Shameless". Most recently Melissa appeared in "True Story" with Kevin Hart, HBO's "Winning Time, The rise of the LA Lakers" and "High Desert" with Patricia Arquette. Her film credits include "Saving Mr Banks" and "Foster Boy" with Matthew Modine. Her singing is featured on end credit song on various films.
Melissa also produces The Breakthrough Reading Series supporting Female and Diverse writers.
She has consulted on numerous feature films and most recently Produced the Award winning short film POST SENTENCE, which premiered at the Cleveland International Film Festival. Her first feature film, romantic comedy SWITCH UP, is Premiering at SXSW in 2024 and she is in pre-production on a comedy with Jackie Weaver.
Brandon Alperin
Brandon Alperin Picking up a 35mm camera at a young age, Brandon was enamored by how some emulsion, chemicals and photo paper in a dark room could shed so much light on life. Learning from and inspired by acclaimed photographers and cinematographers, Brandon has sought to create the idea of nostalgia and macabre through moving images. Graduating from Chapman University’s School of Film and Television, with an emphasis in Cinematography, Brandon entered the professional filmmaking world. Quickly joining IATSE Local 728 (set electricians union), he has lit for some of the most sought after cinematographers in music videos, commercials and features. He has taken his knowledge and expertise on journeys around the world: from time-lapse on the steps of the temples of Tikal in Guatemala, to an intimate one on one with the Dalai Lama in India. Brandon is in constant search of the next great image with which to tell a story.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Deep heartbreak is like a death. Now imagine you treat it as such, and ask your friends to honor your own broken heart journey as a death. And they acquiesce as much out of desperation to see you move on as anything else, but at the end of the day, heartbreak is universal. Welcome to the world of SIENNA AND THE SIT, a very personal story loosely inspired by my own journey through heartbreak. It was originally inspired by my friend's metaphorical comment that there was nothing left for me to do to get over my ex other than sit Shiva; and I found the concept refreshing. And as someone familiar with spiritual bypassing, I saw the possibility of humor in the cultural appropriation so prevalent in LA. I wanted to tell a story that at once honors the original ritual of the Shiva tradition through the voice of reason of the Jewish friend, while also poking fun at the absurdity of our human need for a quick fix.
As an explorer of healing modalities and a queen of distraction (much like myself), Sienna has tried everything to get past her ex, to no avail. When her friend Ruthie shows up for a potluck, she discovers Sienna took her metaphorical advice literally, and is hosting a Shiva, attended by Sienna's self-absorbed actor friends. Even though everyone finds it ridiculous, they go through with the Shiva because they are all so sick of hearing about the ex. Anything is better than that. Things start to unravel when the special guest guru Linus, a self-proclaimed "Shiva" guide (Hindu god of destruction and death) shows up. Despite Sienna loving the synchronocities of the two Shivas, everything goes awry.
At its core, SIENNA AND THE SIT is a story about the lengths to which we go to avoid our pain, the community that helps us through to the other side, and ultimately our own inner strength. We are in trying times, and experiencing grief on so many levels, from the collective to the personal. And the only way out of the pain is through; we must sit with what is hurting in order to grow. And the most powerful way of doing that is in community, so I feel that while this story is unique and addressing a particular moment in time, it encapsulates a broader appeal at its core. And is important as we as a collective are processing so much grief in today's world. And as the saying goes, a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down, so I wanted to weave together a sense of humor about it all, because that is one of the best ways to navigate pain.
We have finished Physical Production and are now in Post Production. When we complete the film, we will be submitting it to Festivals. We will keep our supporters informed about screenings, and I will be sharing the progress on social media throughout the journey of the film. If we surpass our goal, we will be able to submit to more festivals. Once it is complete we will be sure to let audiences know where they can find screenings and/or streamings.
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Physical Production Paid off Completely
Costs $5,000
Thank you for your support! It helps us pay off remaining elements of physical production that is complete.
Editing
Costs $2,500
This allows us to complete the project which we have already filmed. It is a vital step in the process. Thank you for your support!
Sound Design
Costs $2,000
This element is part of completing a film. It creates the sound environment and sound cues.
Composing
Costs $2,500
This creates the mood of the film and is so important!
Festival Applications and Attendance
Costs $3,000
We hope to make a splash, and your support supports us with that!
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Scottie Thompson
Scottie Thompson is an actress and an activist. She grew up performing on stage as a ballet dancer, and pursued a career as a professional with The Richmond Ballet, the State Ballet of Virginia. She followed her passion for storytelling into a career in film, TV and theater, after completing her undergraduate degree in Performance Studies at Harvard University. She has recurred in series including Bel Air, 12 Monkeys, NCIS, The Blacklist, and MacGyver, among others. Her film credits include Crown Vic, Limbo, Skyline, Star Trek, The Lookalike, and most recently starred alongside Finn Wittrock in Start Without Me and opposite Gabriel Byrne and Thomas Jane in Murder at Yellowstone City, which she also produced. She has appeared on stage recently in a world premiere reading of John Patrick Shanley’s Drop Off at the Marilyn Monroe Theater in Hollywood, as well as in the world premiere of Shanley’s short play On the Terrace. She is thrilled to be helming her first project as a director and writer for Sienna and the Sit.
Brett Dalton
Brett Dalton is perhaps best known for his role as “Agent Grant Ward” in Joss Whedon’s hit ABC series MARVEL'S AGENTS OF S.H.I.E.L.D., for which he received a Teen Choice Award for Best Male Breakout Star. He currently stars opposite Shanola Hampton in NBC’s FOUND. He had a major arc in NBC’s hit long-running series CHICAGO FIRE as well as CBS’s THE EQUALIZER. He previously appeared in Apple TV+’s Sesame Street spinoff, GHOST WRITER and in National Geographic’s KILLING LINCOLN, from producers Tony and Ridley Scott Production. Other television credits include ELEMENTARY, DECEPTION, BLUE BLOODS, and ARMY WIVES.On the big screen, Brett starred as the lead in the independent features THE RESURRECTION OF GAVIN STONE, directed by Dallas Jenkins, LOST IN FLORENCE, directed by Evan Oppenheimer, and BESIDE STILL WATERS, directed by Chris Lowell. Brett has also made a name for himself in the videogame world. He stars in the 2023 BAFTA Award-winning GOD OF WAR: RAGNARÖK.He also starred alongside Rami Malek and a tremendous ensemble cast in the BAFTA Award-winning horror video game UNTIL DAWN for Playstation 4 as well as DESTINY 2: THE WITCH QUEEN. His has lent his voice to a number of animated films and television shows such as JUSTICE LEAGUE: WARWORLD, HAMSTER & GRETEL, SUPERMAN: MAN OF TOMORROW, MILO MURPHY'S LAW, ROBOT CHICKEN, and JAKE AND THE NEVERLAND PIRATES. Dalton has a degree in Art and Theater from UC Berkeley and an MFA in Acting from Yale School of Drama.
Alyshia Ochse
Alyshia Ochse is a multifaceted talent based in Los Angeles, renowned for her versatile roles across television and film. Widely recognized for her compelling portrayal of "Lucy" alongside Matthew McConaughey in HBO's acclaimed series TRUE DETECTIVE, she continues to captivate audiences with her performances. Currently starring in the Hulu/Onyx Studios hit series The Other Black Girl, adapted from the New York Times best-selling novel, Alyshia demonstrates her range as an actress. Her impressive repertoire includes appearances in Emmy-winning productions like #FREERAYSHAWN, as well as popular shows such as HBO's BALLERS, THE PURGE, and LIFE SENTENCE on CW and Netflix. On the big screen, she has left her mark in notable films like THE OTHER WOMAN, MARAUDERS, and SHE'S IN PORTLAND. Beyond acting, Alyshia is a dynamic entrepreneur, hosting the widely acclaimed podcast THAT ONE AUDITION, where she engages in candid conversations with industry luminaries, and co-founding "The Bridge for Actors," a groundbreaking online program designed to empower aspiring actors with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the industry. With an impressive array of accomplishments to her name, Alyshia Ochse continues to shine as an actress, author, podcast host, and dedicated mother.
Meta Golding
Meta Golding is perhaps best known for playing the iconic role of Mrs. Rosa Parks in the NAACP nominated film Behind the Movement . She has appeared in over 100 film and television roles including the hit FOX series Empire, Daybreak, House, Colony, CSI, Criminal Minds,Tomorrow People and the international blockbusters Hunger Games: Catching Fire and Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2, amongst others. She can currently be seen as the lead opposite Kiefer Sutherland in the Paramount + series Rabbit Hole. Meta is a graduate of Cornell University.
Rupak Ginn
Rupak Ginn is a Los Angeles based, New York raised actor, host, and writer. He has performed in seven seasons of USA's ROYAL PAINS, THE STONE WITCH off-Broadway, and various other roles in film and TV including Universal's THE HIGH NOTE, NCIS: LA, SEAL TEAM, and PERSON OF INTEREST. Rupak, who holds a degree in English Literature from Harvard University and an MBA from Columbia University, is also currently the host and co-creator of SPICE ROAD, a food & travel show currently streaming on PBS.
Stephen Bowman
Stephen Bowman is a graduate student of the esteemed American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York. After graduating he found his way back to his hometown of San Francisco performing in the city’s vibrant theater scene, eventually setting out to make his mark in the entertainment capital of Los Angeles. This is where he started auditioning for roles and paying his rent assisting some of the most renowned makeup artists in the entertainment industry, to be near film and video sets, so that he could get the lay of the land. Eventually, he landed a spot as Jeff Lewis' hilariously disgruntled assistant in the Bravo TV series "Flipping Out." Infusing his presence with wit and charm, Bowman's comedic timing earned him acclaim from fans of the show far and wide. Under the guidance of renowned acting coach Leigh Kilton Smith, he refined his craft, leading to appearances in films like "From Zero to I Love You," "The Daughter," and "Five Star Day," among others. With each project, Stephen Bowman continues to captivate audiences and his fellow actors leading them to wonder, “Why is the makeup artist in this scene?” With his magnetic presence and undeniable talent both in front and behind the camera, Stephen definitely has his fingers on the pulse of Hollywood.
Lisa Lee Cooper
Lisa Lee Cooper is honored to join the talented cast and crew of this incredible production. Some of her credits include; Television: "The Powers That Be", directed by Norman Lear. "7th Heaven." Shorts: "Ed", "180", "A Nothing Kind of Day." Various commercials. Theater: "Act 2x2", directed by David Anspaugh. "Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune", World premier of "Reckoning - A Compilation of One Acts from On the Verge of" by Diane Lansing. Lisa has been very fortunate to train with The American Conservatory Theater- San Francisco, Salem Ludwig at HB Studio - New York, Larry Moss - Los Angeles (1990-2018). Nancy Banks - Los Angeles (2017-current).
Sarah Ivy
Sarah Ivy is an award-winning producer and director based in Venice Beach, CA. She began her career in development at Jerry Bruckheimer Films and Television and MTV Films. After working in the production office for the CBS drama Criminal Mindsand assisting top-level executives at Warner Bros., she went on to become Senior Vice President and a Producer at Master Key Productions where she produced international unit shoots for network and cable television shows including Scandal, Covert Affairs, Royal Pains. Her first feature documentary, Do You Dream in Color?, garnered much acclaim and numerous awards on the festival circuit. For the film, she was recipient of the NYWIFT Loreen Arbus Disability Awareness Award and the 2017 Jacob Bolotin Award in recognition achievements of exemplary significance to the blind for her directing work. The film is being distributed by Uncork’d & Dark Horse Entertainment. Sarah recently completed her second feature film, Sk8 Girlz, a documentary following an all-female skateboard team based out of Orange County, CA. With two feature documentaries under her belt, Sarah is excited to return to narrative filmmaking by producing A Small Family Affair and now, Sienna and the Sit. She is a graduate of the USC School of Cinematic Arts in Production.
Leanne Miller
Leanne Miller is a multifaceted professional blending the worlds of cinema and psychology; bringing a unique perspective to storytelling and human connection. Through her dual roles as a seasoned therapist and more recently as a film producer, she strives to explore the complexities of the human experience, sparking conversations and inspiring positive change. Whether through the intimate setting of a therapy session or the captivating narrative of a film, her ultimate goal remains the same: to foster understanding, empathy, and connection in a world that often feels disconnected. Leanne holds a doctorate in international psychology and is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in both California and New York.
Melissa Bickerton
Melissa Bickerton is an Australian actress/singer/producer. She's appeared on hit shows like "LOST", "Criminal Minds" and "Shameless". Most recently Melissa appeared in "True Story" with Kevin Hart, HBO's "Winning Time, The rise of the LA Lakers" and "High Desert" with Patricia Arquette. Her film credits include "Saving Mr Banks" and "Foster Boy" with Matthew Modine. Her singing is featured on end credit song on various films.
Melissa also produces The Breakthrough Reading Series supporting Female and Diverse writers.
She has consulted on numerous feature films and most recently Produced the Award winning short film POST SENTENCE, which premiered at the Cleveland International Film Festival. Her first feature film, romantic comedy SWITCH UP, is Premiering at SXSW in 2024 and she is in pre-production on a comedy with Jackie Weaver.
Brandon Alperin
Brandon Alperin Picking up a 35mm camera at a young age, Brandon was enamored by how some emulsion, chemicals and photo paper in a dark room could shed so much light on life. Learning from and inspired by acclaimed photographers and cinematographers, Brandon has sought to create the idea of nostalgia and macabre through moving images. Graduating from Chapman University’s School of Film and Television, with an emphasis in Cinematography, Brandon entered the professional filmmaking world. Quickly joining IATSE Local 728 (set electricians union), he has lit for some of the most sought after cinematographers in music videos, commercials and features. He has taken his knowledge and expertise on journeys around the world: from time-lapse on the steps of the temples of Tikal in Guatemala, to an intimate one on one with the Dalai Lama in India. Brandon is in constant search of the next great image with which to tell a story.