The Chatter
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Drama
The Chatter is a short film that takes an intimate and raw look at social isolation in today’s screen-addicted world. An unflinching portrayal of modern loneliness, The Chatter explores the lengths some will go to satisfy the simplest of human desires: connection.
The Chatter
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Drama
1 Campaigns | California, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $12,085 for pre-production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
22 supporters | followers
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The Chatter is a short film that takes an intimate and raw look at social isolation in today’s screen-addicted world. An unflinching portrayal of modern loneliness, The Chatter explores the lengths some will go to satisfy the simplest of human desires: connection.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
THE SYNOPSIS
The Chatter follows a socially isolated man who makes a living by impersonating an adult content creator named Sedona, privately messaging her subscribers and selling them the illusion of intimacy. Chatter’s entire life - work, food, entertainment, even healthcare - is delivered with a few simple clicks, eliminating the need for human interaction.
Night after night, Chatter crafts flirtation, reassurance, and intimacy for dozens of strangers seeking to fulfill their own desire for connection. Encouraged by an industry that monetizes loneliness, Chatter becomes increasingly detached from his own identity, hiding behind Sedona’s voice and persona.
That is, until a subscriber named Guy reaches out with a simple question: Do you ever feel lonely? Struck by Guy’s vulnerability, Chatter soon finds himself forming an unexpected emotional bond with Guy. As they grow closer, Chatter begins to experience a sense of connection he has long avoided. There’s only one problem: Guy still believes he’s chatting with Sedona.
As their relationship reaches the point of no return, Chatter is forced to confront the consequences of his deception, resulting in a painful but honest reckoning.
WHY THIS STORY?
It's timely. And it's universal. Everyone has dealt with loneliness in some form or another. Technology, while it has made life easier, has also exacerbated societal isolation. Tethered to our phones, we search endlessly for connection, swiping through apps, while ignoring the world around us.
That is what The Chatter is about: the undeniable human urge to simply want to connect with another human being. This film is unique in that it explores these themes through the eyes of a chatter, a person whose job it is to manufacture emotional intimacy.
But what happens when the chatter himself is as lonely as the subscriber he's talking to?
WHY US?
Studios might be running scared, but we’re not. We’re a group of passionate and experienced filmmakers from diverse backgrounds working together to create meaningful cinema.
Cody McGlashan's audition tape for the role of Chatter
While major film studios are reluctant to stray from IP despite the growing audience demand for originality and auteurship (as proven by 2025 & 2026 Best Picture winners, Anora and One Battle After Another), we are ready to roll up our sleeves and create resonant independent storytelling.
HOW WE'LL DO THIS...
With decades spent in the film industry, we know that a story like this requires extensive creative pre-production. This spring, we have already completed location scouting, finalized casting, and launched our social media account (Instagram: @thechatter_shortfilm).
Currently, writer/director Michael Schatz is creating a detailed shot list with the DP to ensure a smooth production and concise visual direction. We are dedicated to this story and guarantee that every dollar donated to this short film will be put to good use by top-level film professionals. By joining us, you can help support this dynamic, dramatic short film!
WHERE THE MONEY GOES
We have a plan for this, too! From salaries to craft services, we've figured out exactly what we need and where it will go.
As far as all our amazing perks, anything that needs to be mailed will be sent within two weeks of our campaign closing. Any BTS and advanced screenings will come after we have a finished product (this fall!)
STRETCH GOALS
Help us reach our stretch goal of $15,000. This extra investment would help cover other equipment costs that we've had to cut from the budget - like specialty lenses and dollies for more dynamic shots. But more importantly, it would go to my wonderful cast and crew.
Marval Rex's audition tape for the role of Manager
Each one of them is extremely talented, and many of them are taking lower fees because of their belief in me and this project. I would like nothing more than to be able to shower them with bonuses because nothing is better than artists doing what they do best: making amazing art.
FOLLOW US!
Even if you are unable to donate, you can still support us by sharing our campaign and engaging with us on social media. Follow our Seed & Spark page so you can catch all the latest updates on the project.
And be sure to follow us on Instagram at: @thechatter_shortfilm
That's where you'll catch special behind-the-scenes- snippets, casting updates, and everything else we're working on. Share, follow, & like - anything you can do to help spread the word and help get The Chatter to the big screen would be appreciated more than you could ever know.
ACCOLADES
The Chatter has been recognized by the following festivals and competitions...
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Craft Services
Costs $1,000
A three day shoot and a crew of 15 people = the need for good food!
Post Production
Costs $2,000
This allows us to really go big with top-tier sound design and VFX.
Location
Costs $2,500
Gives us the ability to spread out a little more with an extra holding area. This would be ideal to store equipment, craft services and more
Props
Costs $1,000
A super important aspect of the film, props will make Chatter's environment feel lived in and authentic.
Wardrobe
Costs $500
So we don't have to use Mike's old clothes!
Equipment
Costs $3,000
Gives us the ability to shoot with everything we need in order to bring this to life!
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
THE TEAM
Michael Schatz (writer/director/producer)
Michael’s scripts have been featured on the prestigious Black List and Hit List. He is a two-time Nicholl Fellowship semi-finalist, and currently has a script in development with John Wells Productions. He was a producer on the Netflix documentary, Travelin’ Band: Creedence Clearwater Revival At The Royal Albert Hall.
Ludovica Isidori (Director of Photography)
Ludovica is an award-winning DP known for her intimacy and ability to transport an audience into the frame. Her work has premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival, TIFF, and SXSW.
Matt Thompson (Producer)
Matt previously served as Head of Film at John Wells Productions and now runs his own production company, Electus Productions. He brings years of industry experience and a sharp eye for development and creativity.
Alexander Bornstein (Composer)
Alexander is an award-winning composer known for his work on Andor, The Boys, The Tutor, and Are You Afraid of the Dark? His combination of synth, orchestral, and vocal elements comes together to form a unique, raw sound.
Listen to a piece of teaser music for The Chatter, composed by Alexander, below:
THE CAST
Cody McGlashan as Chatter
Cody is an Actor, Director, and Screenwriter who lives in LA. His film, Gary Screams for You (which he wrote, directed, and starred in) premiered at TIFF, and he can be seen starring in the independent feature films "Another Day" (dir. Greg Kirkpatrick Jr.) and Secrete (Dir. Justin Lamarr) and the upcoming independent feature films What's For Dinner (Dir. Brent Lowell Howard) and A Night at the Gunter (Dir. Christian York) and Dreaming of an Immortal.
Henry Hetz as Guy
Upon receiving his Masters degree in acting from Brown University/Trinity Repertory MFA programs, Henry Hetz moved to Los Angeles, where he has been particularly active in the indie film scene. Recent bookings include A63 Pictures' "Halloween Aftermath", J. Zachary Thurman's "The Demon Core", and the 2024 LASIFF selection: “5.7 Seconds”. Upcoming projects include Midnight Hour Productions' cerebral thriller "Immersion" and Outright Pictures' gritty horror based on a true story "Buddy".
Devon Herrera as Sedona
Devon Herrera is an actress and storyteller drawn to the power of emotional truth.
She explores women who hold moral clarity amid complexity and create lasting impact.
Marval Rex as The Manager
Marval Rex is an actor and stand-up comedian whose work spans film, television, and interdisciplinary performance. With over a decade of experience developing and performing in genre-defying live works and independent films, Rex has built a reputation for bold, psychologically grounded performances and a distinctive creative voice.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
THE SYNOPSIS
The Chatter follows a socially isolated man who makes a living by impersonating an adult content creator named Sedona, privately messaging her subscribers and selling them the illusion of intimacy. Chatter’s entire life - work, food, entertainment, even healthcare - is delivered with a few simple clicks, eliminating the need for human interaction.
Night after night, Chatter crafts flirtation, reassurance, and intimacy for dozens of strangers seeking to fulfill their own desire for connection. Encouraged by an industry that monetizes loneliness, Chatter becomes increasingly detached from his own identity, hiding behind Sedona’s voice and persona.
That is, until a subscriber named Guy reaches out with a simple question: Do you ever feel lonely? Struck by Guy’s vulnerability, Chatter soon finds himself forming an unexpected emotional bond with Guy. As they grow closer, Chatter begins to experience a sense of connection he has long avoided. There’s only one problem: Guy still believes he’s chatting with Sedona.
As their relationship reaches the point of no return, Chatter is forced to confront the consequences of his deception, resulting in a painful but honest reckoning.
WHY THIS STORY?
It's timely. And it's universal. Everyone has dealt with loneliness in some form or another. Technology, while it has made life easier, has also exacerbated societal isolation. Tethered to our phones, we search endlessly for connection, swiping through apps, while ignoring the world around us.
That is what The Chatter is about: the undeniable human urge to simply want to connect with another human being. This film is unique in that it explores these themes through the eyes of a chatter, a person whose job it is to manufacture emotional intimacy.
But what happens when the chatter himself is as lonely as the subscriber he's talking to?
WHY US?
Studios might be running scared, but we’re not. We’re a group of passionate and experienced filmmakers from diverse backgrounds working together to create meaningful cinema.
Cody McGlashan's audition tape for the role of Chatter
While major film studios are reluctant to stray from IP despite the growing audience demand for originality and auteurship (as proven by 2025 & 2026 Best Picture winners, Anora and One Battle After Another), we are ready to roll up our sleeves and create resonant independent storytelling.
HOW WE'LL DO THIS...
With decades spent in the film industry, we know that a story like this requires extensive creative pre-production. This spring, we have already completed location scouting, finalized casting, and launched our social media account (Instagram: @thechatter_shortfilm).
Currently, writer/director Michael Schatz is creating a detailed shot list with the DP to ensure a smooth production and concise visual direction. We are dedicated to this story and guarantee that every dollar donated to this short film will be put to good use by top-level film professionals. By joining us, you can help support this dynamic, dramatic short film!
WHERE THE MONEY GOES
We have a plan for this, too! From salaries to craft services, we've figured out exactly what we need and where it will go.
As far as all our amazing perks, anything that needs to be mailed will be sent within two weeks of our campaign closing. Any BTS and advanced screenings will come after we have a finished product (this fall!)
STRETCH GOALS
Help us reach our stretch goal of $15,000. This extra investment would help cover other equipment costs that we've had to cut from the budget - like specialty lenses and dollies for more dynamic shots. But more importantly, it would go to my wonderful cast and crew.
Marval Rex's audition tape for the role of Manager
Each one of them is extremely talented, and many of them are taking lower fees because of their belief in me and this project. I would like nothing more than to be able to shower them with bonuses because nothing is better than artists doing what they do best: making amazing art.
FOLLOW US!
Even if you are unable to donate, you can still support us by sharing our campaign and engaging with us on social media. Follow our Seed & Spark page so you can catch all the latest updates on the project.
And be sure to follow us on Instagram at: @thechatter_shortfilm
That's where you'll catch special behind-the-scenes- snippets, casting updates, and everything else we're working on. Share, follow, & like - anything you can do to help spread the word and help get The Chatter to the big screen would be appreciated more than you could ever know.
ACCOLADES
The Chatter has been recognized by the following festivals and competitions...
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Craft Services
Costs $1,000
A three day shoot and a crew of 15 people = the need for good food!
Post Production
Costs $2,000
This allows us to really go big with top-tier sound design and VFX.
Location
Costs $2,500
Gives us the ability to spread out a little more with an extra holding area. This would be ideal to store equipment, craft services and more
Props
Costs $1,000
A super important aspect of the film, props will make Chatter's environment feel lived in and authentic.
Wardrobe
Costs $500
So we don't have to use Mike's old clothes!
Equipment
Costs $3,000
Gives us the ability to shoot with everything we need in order to bring this to life!
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
THE TEAM
Michael Schatz (writer/director/producer)
Michael’s scripts have been featured on the prestigious Black List and Hit List. He is a two-time Nicholl Fellowship semi-finalist, and currently has a script in development with John Wells Productions. He was a producer on the Netflix documentary, Travelin’ Band: Creedence Clearwater Revival At The Royal Albert Hall.
Ludovica Isidori (Director of Photography)
Ludovica is an award-winning DP known for her intimacy and ability to transport an audience into the frame. Her work has premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival, TIFF, and SXSW.
Matt Thompson (Producer)
Matt previously served as Head of Film at John Wells Productions and now runs his own production company, Electus Productions. He brings years of industry experience and a sharp eye for development and creativity.
Alexander Bornstein (Composer)
Alexander is an award-winning composer known for his work on Andor, The Boys, The Tutor, and Are You Afraid of the Dark? His combination of synth, orchestral, and vocal elements comes together to form a unique, raw sound.
Listen to a piece of teaser music for The Chatter, composed by Alexander, below:
THE CAST
Cody McGlashan as Chatter
Cody is an Actor, Director, and Screenwriter who lives in LA. His film, Gary Screams for You (which he wrote, directed, and starred in) premiered at TIFF, and he can be seen starring in the independent feature films "Another Day" (dir. Greg Kirkpatrick Jr.) and Secrete (Dir. Justin Lamarr) and the upcoming independent feature films What's For Dinner (Dir. Brent Lowell Howard) and A Night at the Gunter (Dir. Christian York) and Dreaming of an Immortal.
Henry Hetz as Guy
Upon receiving his Masters degree in acting from Brown University/Trinity Repertory MFA programs, Henry Hetz moved to Los Angeles, where he has been particularly active in the indie film scene. Recent bookings include A63 Pictures' "Halloween Aftermath", J. Zachary Thurman's "The Demon Core", and the 2024 LASIFF selection: “5.7 Seconds”. Upcoming projects include Midnight Hour Productions' cerebral thriller "Immersion" and Outright Pictures' gritty horror based on a true story "Buddy".
Devon Herrera as Sedona
Devon Herrera is an actress and storyteller drawn to the power of emotional truth.
She explores women who hold moral clarity amid complexity and create lasting impact.
Marval Rex as The Manager
Marval Rex is an actor and stand-up comedian whose work spans film, television, and interdisciplinary performance. With over a decade of experience developing and performing in genre-defying live works and independent films, Rex has built a reputation for bold, psychologically grounded performances and a distinctive creative voice.