Snatched
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Horror, LGBTQ
After a small-town drag queen is murdered, her mystical wig possesses an unlikely local – turning him into a glamorous, bloodthirsty vessel of vengeance, hunting down every man responsible, one fabulous slay at a time.
Snatched
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Horror, LGBTQ
1 Campaigns | California, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $12,230 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
113 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
After a small-town drag queen is murdered, her mystical wig possesses an unlikely local – turning him into a glamorous, bloodthirsty vessel of vengeance, hunting down every man responsible, one fabulous slay at a time.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
In a small rural town where drag has never graced a stage, three traveling queens—Miss Tickle, Keri Okee, and Mama Mia—roll in ready to bring a little sparkle to the locals. But before the show even begins, Miss Tickle is brutally murdered, sending a chilling message loud and clear: You’re not welcome here.
Shaken but defiant, Keri Okee and Mama Mia refuse to be silenced. In honor of their fallen sister, they insist the show must go on. What nobody realizes is that Miss Tickle’s signature orange wig carries more than just style—it’s imbued with a mystical curse, transforming one of the town’s most unlikely men, Jimmy, into a glamorous, bloodthirsty vessel of vengeance. Jimmy’s life becomes a catwalk of chaos as he dons his new drag persona and struts through town hunting down every man responsible for the queen’s demise.
Jim Carrey as Stanley Ipkiss in "The Mask", 1994. Margot Robbie as Harley Quinn in "Birds of Prey", 2020.
With high heels as deadly as knives, Jimmy slices through the town’s perpetrators in sequences that are as absurdly campy as they are horrifying. Along the way, he dazzles, taunts, and even breaks the fourth wall, proving that vengeance has never looked so fabulous. Meanwhile, the surviving queens must navigate a town that has suddenly become both a stage and a battlefield, wondering who will survive and who will end up as glitter-stained collateral.
Snatched is a glamorous, blood-soaked celebration of resilience, courage, and the strength it takes to stand tall, heels and all, against anyone who dares to put you down.
Derek admits that he used to feel uncomfortable at the thought of drag queens. His perspective transformed after binging every season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race”, attending local drag shows, and forming friendships within the drag community. Through that experience, he discovered a vibrant, supportive culture defined by creativity, courage, and unapologetic self-expression. Snatched was born from that newfound appreciation and a desire to showcase the brilliance, humor, and humanity of this community—especially at a time when drag performers and LGBTQ+ individuals are facing renewed criticism and hostility.
Derek first meeting Kay at a friend's wedding in 2022. Derek & Mylique at WeHo Pride 2025. Derek & Sam BTS of "Nice Girls Don't Win" Podcast in 2025.
This project celebrates the artistry, resilience, and community of drag. At its core, Snatched is about sisterhood, solidarity, and survival. The film follows three drag performers who, when faced with danger, embody the strength of chosen family and the lengths they’ll go to protect one another. It’s a twisted and fun story that celebrates the power of community and individuality—made by and for a community that refuses to be silenced.
Snatched is a horror short bursting with color, comedy, and camp — a film where terror and joy coexist. Derek’s favorite kind of horror films are the ones that make you laugh just before they make you scream.
Visually, the film will contrast the drabness of a small town with the vibrant, defiant world of drag. The environment is dark and muted — harsh shadows, dusty bars, grungy bathrooms — but within that gloom, color will pierce through the darkness like magic refusing to be dimmed. We want the film to feel both gritty and enchanted.
A preview of the bar location where Mama Mia and Keri Okee will be performing.
Cameron Cowperthwaite - Jimmy
Cameron Cowperthwaite has had the opportunity of working with some of the most prolific television producers working today, sharing credits with the likes of Ryan Murphy, Jonathan Nolan, Fernando Meirelles, Tina Fey, and Shonda Rhimes. His television career started in 2016 working on Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders, which lead to many recurring guest roles on Emmy nominated shows like American Horror Story, Feud: Bette and Joan, Animal Kingdom, Shameless, The Deuce, 911: Lone Star, and Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt. He is most known for playing the role of real life Steven Hicks on Dahmer - Monster: The Jefrey Dahmer Story.
Nina West - Mama Mia
Nina West is the stage persona of Andrew Levitt, an internationally celebrated drag queen known for her charisma, activism, and trailblazing influence on modern drag culture. Rising from the vibrant Columbus drag scene, Nina became a global sensation after competing on RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 11, where she earned Miss Congeniality and cemented her place as one of the most beloved queens in the franchise’s history. Her impact was further recognized when she appeared on the cover of New York Magazine as one of “The Most Powerful Drag Queens in America.”
A dynamic live performer, Nina has headlined stages around the world—from nightclubs to major theaters and festivals—bringing her signature blend of camp, heart, and LGBTQIA+ advocacy to every appearance. She has collaborated with major brands like Pantene, Pepsi, and Lane Bryant, and made drag history as the first person to walk the Emmy Awards purple carpet in full drag.
Deeply committed to community work, Nina founded the Nina West Foundation, which has raised millions for organizations supporting equality, youth, and LGBTQIA+ rights. Whether onstage, onscreen, or in the community, Nina West continues to champion kindness, creativity, and powerful queer storytelling.
Kay BeBe Queue - Keri Okee
Kay BeBe Queue splashed onto the LA drag scene as a Semi-Finalist in Billy Francesca's DRAGGED OUT, finalist in Ongina's CAN YOU EVEN DRAG, and introduced Idina Menzel at WeHo Pride. Kay starred alongside Cheyenne Jackson and Salina Estitties in the Pasadena Playhouse production of LA CAGE AUX FOLLES directed by Sam Pinkleton. She also starred in Q Allan Brocka's film EKG. Out of drag, Tim J. Lim is a performer and award-winning filmmaker (MFA UCLA Narrative Film Directing) with films shown globally, including OutFest Fusion, Out on Film, Seoul Pride International Film Festival, LA Film Festival and Cannes Short Film Corner. He starred in the west coast premiere of COMFORT WOMEN: A NEW MUSICAL and was in the company of THIS IS ME at the 90th Oscars with Keala Settle.
Danielle Dallas Roosa - Phoebe
Danielle Dallas Roosa is a Los Angeles–based screenwriter, actor, and immersive-experience creator who somehow turned being “the weird kid in middle school” into a full career.
She’s written everything from a space immersive experience to comedy pilots, with work recognized by the LA Times, ScreenCraft, Outstanding Screenplays, WeScreenplay’s Diverse Voices Lab, and the Filmmatic TV Awards. Additionally, she has sold two comedic feature films. Her tone blends heartfelt comedy and punchy wit, making hard-to-digest topics feel human and approachable.
On screen, Danielle has appeared in films such as THE BOOGIE MAN, ME MYSELF AND THE VOID, and APPYNESS, and two feature films set to release in 2026.
Unfortunately for her, she remains incurably weird. However, she’s no longer judged by Melissa from 4th-period biology, but instead by her extremely judgmental husky, whom she loves.
Lauren-Ashley Beck - Reporter
Lauren-Ashley Beck (a.k.a the "Queen of Stream") is an on-air TV host and lifestyle content creator who is most known for her gift of gab. Lauren-Ashley competed as a contestant on the CBS reality tv show Survivor in 2019, finishing in fourth place. As a TV host, she has worked with various networks like E!News, Variety, and FOX Entertainment - interviewing some of the biggest names in Hollywood. In addition to red carpet reporting, Lauren-Ashley has reported the weather for KTLA and often appears on CBSLA to give commentary as a Reality TV Expert. As Lauren-Ashley continues to excel in her career, she hopes to grow and further connect with her loyal audience. Lauren-Ashley would love to continue fostering relationships, creating content, and hosting events for brands. CATEGORIES: On-Air Hosting, Pop-Culture, Lifestyle -- NOTABLE BRAND PARTNERS: Amazon Alexa, Prime Video, Peacock, Hulu, Netflix, FOX, Mercury Insurance, & more.
Crew
Check out the "Team" section for more info on Derek Stusynski - Writer/Director, Nicholas James Reilly - Producer, Sam Schweikert - Cinematographer, John Redlinger - AD, and Mylique E. Fawcett - Make-Up & Wardrobe.
The script is finished, half of our cast and crew has been assembled, and our shoot dates are set for January 21st & 22nd! Post production will begin as soon as filming wraps, and we're aiming to have the film finished by April 2026 in order to submit to film festivals next year!
If you're wondering what exactly all this money is for, here's a breakdown:
Cast & Crew - $13,000 - With over 30 people on cast and crew, we want to make sure everyone working on this project receives a fair wage for their time and talents! This makes up nearly 50% of our budget and we'll be covering these costs.
We're crowd funding the remaining $14,000 of our budget, and here's that breakdown:
Gear & Equipment - $1,700 - While we've been provided some incredible equipment for free, we need $1,700 for additional camera gear and lighting equipment.
Locations - $2,500 - This covers the costs associated with renting locations to shoot at.
Transportation & Lodging - $1,400 - This covers the cost of transporting equipment and people to and from set, including flights, hotels and uber for out of town talent.
Crafty & Catering - $1,000 - With two very long shoot days, nourishing everyone on set is important to keep energy and spirits high!
Post Production - $5,000 - This includes paying our editors, sound effects, and music.
Practical Effects - $1,400 - What's a horror movie without some blood and prosthetics?
Wardrobe, Hair & Make-Up - $1,100 - Gotta make our cast look incredible with wardrobe, hair and make-up!
It truly means the world to me that you took the time out of your day to check out this project I'm so passionate about. I can't thank you enough for your support, whether it's $5, $500 or helping us spread the word by sharing this across social media.
Make sure to follow us on Instagram to stay up to date on everything Snatched. And don't forget to check out your local drag shows, bring some dollar bills and tip your local drag queens!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Gear & Equipment
Costs $1,700
While we've been provided some incredible equipment for free, we need $1,700 for additional camera gear & lighting equipment.
Wardrobe, Hair & Make-Up
Costs $1,000
Gotta make our cast look incredible with wardrobe, hair and make-up!
Post Production
Costs $5,000
This includes paying our editors, sound effects, vfx,and music.
Crafty & Catering
Costs $1,000
With two very long shoot days, nourishing everyone on set is important to keep energy and spirits high!
Transportation & Lodging
Costs $1,400
his covers the cost of transporting equipment and people to and from set, including flights, hotels and uber for out of town talent.
Locations
Costs $2,500
This covers the costs associated with renting locations to shoot at.
Practical Effects
Costs $1,400
What's a horror movie without some blood and prosthetics?
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Derek Stusynski - Writer/Director
Derek Stusynski is a writer, actor, and filmmaker originally from the small farm town of Karlstad, Minnesota. Growing up surrounded by cornfields and cattle, he found his escape in community theater, playing roles like Peter Pan and the Scarecrow before realizing storytelling was more than a hobby—it was a calling.
After high school, Derek traded tractors for taxis, moving to New York City to study film at the New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts. He went on to appear in award-winning shorts including Path to Prologue and Eden, as well as on Investigation Discovery’s Blood Relatives and Unusual Suspects. His dark comedy web series The Walking Tedd raised over $16,000 on Kickstarter, showcasing his producing and directing skills and knack for blending humor and horror. In addition, Derek has over ten years of experience in casting, from real people to actors in commercials and film, working with companies such as Liz Lewis Casting Partners and Food Network’s Chopped.
Now based in Los Angeles, Derek manages an incredible patron community for Rob Has a Podcast, where he produces exclusive audio and video content for their wonderful patrons. He’s excited to launch his new production company and a podcast called Farm to Film, where he’ll chronicle the making of Snatched.
Nicholas James Reilly - Producer
NJR started his journey (as so many do) with acting in High School. He left traditional college after booking his first Off Broadway role. He attended conservatory at Circle in the Square Theatre School and post graduation, decided to give LA a try. He enjoyed a progressive career there for 7 years. After studying screenwriting at UCLA, he wrote, produced, and directed his first horror/comedy film METHOD.
His latest horror/comedy project, SLAYCATION, features 9 characters in drag. So, a film where a murdered drag queen's wig comes back to seek vengeance on her assailants?! The SNACTHED script was clearly right up his alley and he is proud to have spent the time encouraging Derek to not only make this film, but direct it as well.
In addition to the worlds of theatre & film, Nicholas works as a freelance producer & coordinator for Overland Entertainment. Overland's clients include Tribeca Festival, The Tony Awards, and The New Yorker Festival.
Sam Schweikert - Cinematographer & John Redlinger - 1st AD
Bad & Classic Productions was born from a group of Texas high school friends making videos for the pure love of it. That passion ultimately led filmmakers John Redlinger and Sam Schweikert to Los Angeles, where they honed their craft at the University of Southern California. While at USC, they collaborated on a range of narrative shorts and commercial projects, developing a shared creative voice and ultimately formalizing their partnership as Bad & Classic Productions. The name reflects their dual ethos: the fearless, resourceful spirit of indie filmmaking (“Bad”) paired with the polish and precision of high-end production (“Classic”).
Since then, John and Sam have built a diverse body of work spanning short- and long-form storytelling. From 24-hour film races to large-scale commercial shoots, they bring adaptability, intention, and hard-earned experience to every project. Their narrative films have earned recognition at festivals including Cannes, Palm Springs, and Filmapalooza, along with awards across directing, writing, cinematography, editing, and overall film categories.
In the commercial space, they’ve delivered dynamic content for clients ranging from startups to international wellness brands. No matter the scope or budget, John and Sam approach each collaboration with the same goal: crafting striking, high-quality visuals that elevate every story they tell.
Mylique E. Fawcett - Make-Up Artist & Wardrobe
Mylique E. Fawcett is the walkin' piece of art, drippin' in sass, with a whole lotta heart. You can catch her makin' a splash all over LA proper. And she is the resident weekend nightlife MC/Host for Rocco's West Hollywood. Leaky (nickname) blends together her know-how in acting, dancing, comedy, and visual artistry to create moments and performances simply best described as DRIPPIN'. Her special effects magic was just honored by Indie Short Fest!
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
In a small rural town where drag has never graced a stage, three traveling queens—Miss Tickle, Keri Okee, and Mama Mia—roll in ready to bring a little sparkle to the locals. But before the show even begins, Miss Tickle is brutally murdered, sending a chilling message loud and clear: You’re not welcome here.
Shaken but defiant, Keri Okee and Mama Mia refuse to be silenced. In honor of their fallen sister, they insist the show must go on. What nobody realizes is that Miss Tickle’s signature orange wig carries more than just style—it’s imbued with a mystical curse, transforming one of the town’s most unlikely men, Jimmy, into a glamorous, bloodthirsty vessel of vengeance. Jimmy’s life becomes a catwalk of chaos as he dons his new drag persona and struts through town hunting down every man responsible for the queen’s demise.
Jim Carrey as Stanley Ipkiss in "The Mask", 1994. Margot Robbie as Harley Quinn in "Birds of Prey", 2020.
With high heels as deadly as knives, Jimmy slices through the town’s perpetrators in sequences that are as absurdly campy as they are horrifying. Along the way, he dazzles, taunts, and even breaks the fourth wall, proving that vengeance has never looked so fabulous. Meanwhile, the surviving queens must navigate a town that has suddenly become both a stage and a battlefield, wondering who will survive and who will end up as glitter-stained collateral.
Snatched is a glamorous, blood-soaked celebration of resilience, courage, and the strength it takes to stand tall, heels and all, against anyone who dares to put you down.
Derek admits that he used to feel uncomfortable at the thought of drag queens. His perspective transformed after binging every season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race”, attending local drag shows, and forming friendships within the drag community. Through that experience, he discovered a vibrant, supportive culture defined by creativity, courage, and unapologetic self-expression. Snatched was born from that newfound appreciation and a desire to showcase the brilliance, humor, and humanity of this community—especially at a time when drag performers and LGBTQ+ individuals are facing renewed criticism and hostility.
Derek first meeting Kay at a friend's wedding in 2022. Derek & Mylique at WeHo Pride 2025. Derek & Sam BTS of "Nice Girls Don't Win" Podcast in 2025.
This project celebrates the artistry, resilience, and community of drag. At its core, Snatched is about sisterhood, solidarity, and survival. The film follows three drag performers who, when faced with danger, embody the strength of chosen family and the lengths they’ll go to protect one another. It’s a twisted and fun story that celebrates the power of community and individuality—made by and for a community that refuses to be silenced.
Snatched is a horror short bursting with color, comedy, and camp — a film where terror and joy coexist. Derek’s favorite kind of horror films are the ones that make you laugh just before they make you scream.
Visually, the film will contrast the drabness of a small town with the vibrant, defiant world of drag. The environment is dark and muted — harsh shadows, dusty bars, grungy bathrooms — but within that gloom, color will pierce through the darkness like magic refusing to be dimmed. We want the film to feel both gritty and enchanted.
A preview of the bar location where Mama Mia and Keri Okee will be performing.
Cameron Cowperthwaite - Jimmy
Cameron Cowperthwaite has had the opportunity of working with some of the most prolific television producers working today, sharing credits with the likes of Ryan Murphy, Jonathan Nolan, Fernando Meirelles, Tina Fey, and Shonda Rhimes. His television career started in 2016 working on Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders, which lead to many recurring guest roles on Emmy nominated shows like American Horror Story, Feud: Bette and Joan, Animal Kingdom, Shameless, The Deuce, 911: Lone Star, and Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt. He is most known for playing the role of real life Steven Hicks on Dahmer - Monster: The Jefrey Dahmer Story.
Nina West - Mama Mia
Nina West is the stage persona of Andrew Levitt, an internationally celebrated drag queen known for her charisma, activism, and trailblazing influence on modern drag culture. Rising from the vibrant Columbus drag scene, Nina became a global sensation after competing on RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 11, where she earned Miss Congeniality and cemented her place as one of the most beloved queens in the franchise’s history. Her impact was further recognized when she appeared on the cover of New York Magazine as one of “The Most Powerful Drag Queens in America.”
A dynamic live performer, Nina has headlined stages around the world—from nightclubs to major theaters and festivals—bringing her signature blend of camp, heart, and LGBTQIA+ advocacy to every appearance. She has collaborated with major brands like Pantene, Pepsi, and Lane Bryant, and made drag history as the first person to walk the Emmy Awards purple carpet in full drag.
Deeply committed to community work, Nina founded the Nina West Foundation, which has raised millions for organizations supporting equality, youth, and LGBTQIA+ rights. Whether onstage, onscreen, or in the community, Nina West continues to champion kindness, creativity, and powerful queer storytelling.
Kay BeBe Queue - Keri Okee
Kay BeBe Queue splashed onto the LA drag scene as a Semi-Finalist in Billy Francesca's DRAGGED OUT, finalist in Ongina's CAN YOU EVEN DRAG, and introduced Idina Menzel at WeHo Pride. Kay starred alongside Cheyenne Jackson and Salina Estitties in the Pasadena Playhouse production of LA CAGE AUX FOLLES directed by Sam Pinkleton. She also starred in Q Allan Brocka's film EKG. Out of drag, Tim J. Lim is a performer and award-winning filmmaker (MFA UCLA Narrative Film Directing) with films shown globally, including OutFest Fusion, Out on Film, Seoul Pride International Film Festival, LA Film Festival and Cannes Short Film Corner. He starred in the west coast premiere of COMFORT WOMEN: A NEW MUSICAL and was in the company of THIS IS ME at the 90th Oscars with Keala Settle.
Danielle Dallas Roosa - Phoebe
Danielle Dallas Roosa is a Los Angeles–based screenwriter, actor, and immersive-experience creator who somehow turned being “the weird kid in middle school” into a full career.
She’s written everything from a space immersive experience to comedy pilots, with work recognized by the LA Times, ScreenCraft, Outstanding Screenplays, WeScreenplay’s Diverse Voices Lab, and the Filmmatic TV Awards. Additionally, she has sold two comedic feature films. Her tone blends heartfelt comedy and punchy wit, making hard-to-digest topics feel human and approachable.
On screen, Danielle has appeared in films such as THE BOOGIE MAN, ME MYSELF AND THE VOID, and APPYNESS, and two feature films set to release in 2026.
Unfortunately for her, she remains incurably weird. However, she’s no longer judged by Melissa from 4th-period biology, but instead by her extremely judgmental husky, whom she loves.
Lauren-Ashley Beck - Reporter
Lauren-Ashley Beck (a.k.a the "Queen of Stream") is an on-air TV host and lifestyle content creator who is most known for her gift of gab. Lauren-Ashley competed as a contestant on the CBS reality tv show Survivor in 2019, finishing in fourth place. As a TV host, she has worked with various networks like E!News, Variety, and FOX Entertainment - interviewing some of the biggest names in Hollywood. In addition to red carpet reporting, Lauren-Ashley has reported the weather for KTLA and often appears on CBSLA to give commentary as a Reality TV Expert. As Lauren-Ashley continues to excel in her career, she hopes to grow and further connect with her loyal audience. Lauren-Ashley would love to continue fostering relationships, creating content, and hosting events for brands. CATEGORIES: On-Air Hosting, Pop-Culture, Lifestyle -- NOTABLE BRAND PARTNERS: Amazon Alexa, Prime Video, Peacock, Hulu, Netflix, FOX, Mercury Insurance, & more.
Crew
Check out the "Team" section for more info on Derek Stusynski - Writer/Director, Nicholas James Reilly - Producer, Sam Schweikert - Cinematographer, John Redlinger - AD, and Mylique E. Fawcett - Make-Up & Wardrobe.
The script is finished, half of our cast and crew has been assembled, and our shoot dates are set for January 21st & 22nd! Post production will begin as soon as filming wraps, and we're aiming to have the film finished by April 2026 in order to submit to film festivals next year!
If you're wondering what exactly all this money is for, here's a breakdown:
Cast & Crew - $13,000 - With over 30 people on cast and crew, we want to make sure everyone working on this project receives a fair wage for their time and talents! This makes up nearly 50% of our budget and we'll be covering these costs.
We're crowd funding the remaining $14,000 of our budget, and here's that breakdown:
Gear & Equipment - $1,700 - While we've been provided some incredible equipment for free, we need $1,700 for additional camera gear and lighting equipment.
Locations - $2,500 - This covers the costs associated with renting locations to shoot at.
Transportation & Lodging - $1,400 - This covers the cost of transporting equipment and people to and from set, including flights, hotels and uber for out of town talent.
Crafty & Catering - $1,000 - With two very long shoot days, nourishing everyone on set is important to keep energy and spirits high!
Post Production - $5,000 - This includes paying our editors, sound effects, and music.
Practical Effects - $1,400 - What's a horror movie without some blood and prosthetics?
Wardrobe, Hair & Make-Up - $1,100 - Gotta make our cast look incredible with wardrobe, hair and make-up!
It truly means the world to me that you took the time out of your day to check out this project I'm so passionate about. I can't thank you enough for your support, whether it's $5, $500 or helping us spread the word by sharing this across social media.
Make sure to follow us on Instagram to stay up to date on everything Snatched. And don't forget to check out your local drag shows, bring some dollar bills and tip your local drag queens!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Gear & Equipment
Costs $1,700
While we've been provided some incredible equipment for free, we need $1,700 for additional camera gear & lighting equipment.
Wardrobe, Hair & Make-Up
Costs $1,000
Gotta make our cast look incredible with wardrobe, hair and make-up!
Post Production
Costs $5,000
This includes paying our editors, sound effects, vfx,and music.
Crafty & Catering
Costs $1,000
With two very long shoot days, nourishing everyone on set is important to keep energy and spirits high!
Transportation & Lodging
Costs $1,400
his covers the cost of transporting equipment and people to and from set, including flights, hotels and uber for out of town talent.
Locations
Costs $2,500
This covers the costs associated with renting locations to shoot at.
Practical Effects
Costs $1,400
What's a horror movie without some blood and prosthetics?
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Derek Stusynski - Writer/Director
Derek Stusynski is a writer, actor, and filmmaker originally from the small farm town of Karlstad, Minnesota. Growing up surrounded by cornfields and cattle, he found his escape in community theater, playing roles like Peter Pan and the Scarecrow before realizing storytelling was more than a hobby—it was a calling.
After high school, Derek traded tractors for taxis, moving to New York City to study film at the New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts. He went on to appear in award-winning shorts including Path to Prologue and Eden, as well as on Investigation Discovery’s Blood Relatives and Unusual Suspects. His dark comedy web series The Walking Tedd raised over $16,000 on Kickstarter, showcasing his producing and directing skills and knack for blending humor and horror. In addition, Derek has over ten years of experience in casting, from real people to actors in commercials and film, working with companies such as Liz Lewis Casting Partners and Food Network’s Chopped.
Now based in Los Angeles, Derek manages an incredible patron community for Rob Has a Podcast, where he produces exclusive audio and video content for their wonderful patrons. He’s excited to launch his new production company and a podcast called Farm to Film, where he’ll chronicle the making of Snatched.
Nicholas James Reilly - Producer
NJR started his journey (as so many do) with acting in High School. He left traditional college after booking his first Off Broadway role. He attended conservatory at Circle in the Square Theatre School and post graduation, decided to give LA a try. He enjoyed a progressive career there for 7 years. After studying screenwriting at UCLA, he wrote, produced, and directed his first horror/comedy film METHOD.
His latest horror/comedy project, SLAYCATION, features 9 characters in drag. So, a film where a murdered drag queen's wig comes back to seek vengeance on her assailants?! The SNACTHED script was clearly right up his alley and he is proud to have spent the time encouraging Derek to not only make this film, but direct it as well.
In addition to the worlds of theatre & film, Nicholas works as a freelance producer & coordinator for Overland Entertainment. Overland's clients include Tribeca Festival, The Tony Awards, and The New Yorker Festival.
Sam Schweikert - Cinematographer & John Redlinger - 1st AD
Bad & Classic Productions was born from a group of Texas high school friends making videos for the pure love of it. That passion ultimately led filmmakers John Redlinger and Sam Schweikert to Los Angeles, where they honed their craft at the University of Southern California. While at USC, they collaborated on a range of narrative shorts and commercial projects, developing a shared creative voice and ultimately formalizing their partnership as Bad & Classic Productions. The name reflects their dual ethos: the fearless, resourceful spirit of indie filmmaking (“Bad”) paired with the polish and precision of high-end production (“Classic”).
Since then, John and Sam have built a diverse body of work spanning short- and long-form storytelling. From 24-hour film races to large-scale commercial shoots, they bring adaptability, intention, and hard-earned experience to every project. Their narrative films have earned recognition at festivals including Cannes, Palm Springs, and Filmapalooza, along with awards across directing, writing, cinematography, editing, and overall film categories.
In the commercial space, they’ve delivered dynamic content for clients ranging from startups to international wellness brands. No matter the scope or budget, John and Sam approach each collaboration with the same goal: crafting striking, high-quality visuals that elevate every story they tell.
Mylique E. Fawcett - Make-Up Artist & Wardrobe
Mylique E. Fawcett is the walkin' piece of art, drippin' in sass, with a whole lotta heart. You can catch her makin' a splash all over LA proper. And she is the resident weekend nightlife MC/Host for Rocco's West Hollywood. Leaky (nickname) blends together her know-how in acting, dancing, comedy, and visual artistry to create moments and performances simply best described as DRIPPIN'. Her special effects magic was just honored by Indie Short Fest!