The Feather Film
New York City, New York | Film Short
Drama, Fantasy
Support our Viking-themed short film, "The Feather," created as part of NYU's inaugural Master's in Virtual Production program, where only one Viking ascends Valhalla. This is our one shot to blend epic storytelling with cutting-edge tech, redefining cinema. Your support helps fuel our vision!
The Feather Film
New York City, New York | Film Short
Drama, Fantasy
1 Campaigns | New York, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $20,126 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
47 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
Support our Viking-themed short film, "The Feather," created as part of NYU's inaugural Master's in Virtual Production program, where only one Viking ascends Valhalla. This is our one shot to blend epic storytelling with cutting-edge tech, redefining cinema. Your support helps fuel our vision!
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Welcome to our Journey!
What would you sacrifice for the one you love?
In the heart of a brutal Viking battlefield, two chieftains bound by love face a prophecy that only one of them will ascend to Valhalla. Torn between destiny and devotion, their final hours are filled with choices that will echo through eternity. This is more than a story of war—it’s a story of love, sacrifice, and the relentless pull of fate.
This project is the culmination of our passion for storytelling and our pursuit of mastering virtual production technology. Set against a richly dramatic backdrop, our film explores timeless themes of fate and sacrifice, while staying true to historical accuracy.
As students in NYU's inaugural Martin Scorsese Virtual Production Master's Program, we are honored to be part of history as the first class to create films in this groundbreaking facility. This unique opportunity allows us to set the standard, make our mark, and pave the way for future filmmakers. We hope to inspire generations of students to explore the endless possibilities of virtual production and storytelling in this program. Access to a virtual production stage, typically used for high-budget films, allows us to merge live-action and digital environments seamlessly, bringing an unparalleled level of depth and realism to our storytelling.
This isn’t just a thesis—it’s a chance to innovate, learning hands-on with tools that are reshaping the industry. By utilizing this advanced stage, we’re not only telling a powerful story but also preparing ourselves to be part of the future of filmmaking.
Your support will help us bring this vision to life, from building authentic sets to achieving the technical precision that virtual production demands. Join us in shaping the future of filmmaking—together, we can make this project unforgettable.


Our team is uniquely positioned to bring this story to life, thanks to our diverse backgrounds and shared commitment to storytelling. As students in NYU Tisch’s inaugural Martin Scorsese Virtual Production Master’s Program, we bring together expertise in screenwriting, AI research, cinematography, 3D design, and VFX, creating a dynamic collaboration where every perspective enhances the story. Most importantly, as students together, we aim to LEARN together!
This diversity of experience allows us to approach the narrative from multiple angles—melding traditional storytelling with new technologies, exploring the ethical and human themes at its core, and crafting visuals that are both authentic and imaginative. From award-winning producers to internationally exhibited artists, our team’s breadth of skills ensures that every detail, from world-building to character development, is thoughtfully executed.
We don’t just aim to tell a story—we aim to grow it into a deeply layered and emotionally impactful experience. With our unique blend of creative and technical expertise, we are not only breaking boundaries but also ensuring that this project reflects the depth and richness it deserves. We've got one chance together to use this virtual production stage to craft a story and we want to make the most of it!

What your contributions mean to us!
Your support fuels every aspect of this film, from the on-screen details to the people behind the scenes. Pledges will go toward creating authentic Viking-inspired costumes, intricate special makeup, and handcrafted props and weapons that are essential to immersing the audience in this story.
Beyond the visuals, your contributions allow us to hire key crew members who bring their expertise and passion to the project. We also prioritize taking care of our hardworking team—your generosity helps us provide meals, snacks, and essentials to keep everyone energized, happy, and focused on delivering their best work.
Every dollar you give directly impacts the quality of this production and the experience of everyone involved. Your support doesn’t just create a film—it creates a community. Thank you for helping us bring this vision to life!

Logline: Married Chieftains Aldrik and Hilda prepare for a decisive bloodbath after a Norn's prophesy that both of them will die in battle tomorrow, but only one will be carried to Valhalla.
Beginning: Viking Chieftain Aldrik encounters a mystical Norn in a dark forest, who prophesies that only he or his wife, Hilda, will be chosen to enter Valhalla after their final battle tomorrow.
Middle: Haunted by the prophecy, Aldrik and Hilda struggle with the weight of their fates, clashing over loyalty, honor, and love as they prepare for the inevitable battle against a fearsome enemy that will decide their destiny.
End: Aldrik refrains from fighting, sacrificing his place in Valhalla for Hilda. Out of grief and regret, a look into the past enables Hilda to transform into a Valkyrie and carry Aldrik’s soul to Valhalla herself.
.jpg)
Aldrik
Aldrik is a rugged, powerful Viking chieftain, his physique hardened and scarred from a life of battle. With shoulders broad enough to wield a massive two-handed axe and a wild mane of hair streaked with grit and age, Aldrik is the embodiment of a seasoned warrior. His face and body bear the marks of his past, each wound a testament to his fierce resilience; especially the near-fatal scar on his neck, earned from a defiant and renowned stand against the jötunn, Eldbjorn. However, beneath this fierce exterior lies a man deeply devoted to his wife, and torn between his love for her and his yearning for Valhalla’s eternal glory. Haunted by insecurity about his worthiness, he wrestles with his honor, masculinity, and the complex weight of Hilda's strength and opinions. When confronted by a prophecy that forces him to choose between his own glory and Hilda’s salvation, Aldrik’s love ultimately triumphs, revealing a selfless vulnerability that defies his warrior image and adds depth to his heroic persona.
Hilda
Hilda is a fierce, imposing figure, embodying the strength and resilience of a Viking warrior. Her physique is powerful, with a striking presence that commands respect both on and off the battlefield. She wears her white tunic adorned with intricate braids woven with white feathers, symbolizing her role as both wife and warrior. Hilda’s every move reflects her independence and formidable spirit, yet she harbors a deep love for Aldrik, bound by a fierce loyalty and shared history. Though stoic and unyielding, Hilda wrestles with the weight of the prophecy, which forces her to confront the possibility of losing Aldrik. Beneath her hardened exterior lies a tragic past full of longing and pride. Hilda is not all she seems, and not even her beloved husband knows the truth. Even as Hilda is torn between her own drive for honor and her love for her husband, Hilda is waging her own war inside and with the very gods themselves. When fate challenges her, Hilda defies the gods, sacrificing her own ambitions to reunite with Aldrik in the afterlife—a testament to her fierce devotion and the profound depth of her love.
Norn
The Norn is an enigmatic, mystical figure, embodying both the ancient wisdom and ominous power of fate. Shrouded in a spectral aura, she appears as an ageless, ethereal woman with piercing eyes that seem to see beyond mortal comprehension. Her movements are deliberate and haunting, and she carries an air of both menace and prophecy, weaving a tapestry of fate that trails around her and the immense tree she emerges from. Speaking in cryptic riddles, the Norn reveals unsettling truths, holding Aldrik’s destiny in her hands with an authority that feels as old as time itself.
Eldbjorn
Eldbjorn is a jötunn whose life is devoted to conquest and defiance of the Æsir. Believing that he has been chosen by the god Loki to lead a sect of his own forces in the battle at the end of the world, the war Ragnarök, Eldbjorn accumulates wealth and renown with a light conscience and no opposition…until he meets his mortal enemy, Aldrik.
Thank you!
Thank you for believing in us and in The Feather. Your support means the world to us and allows us to share our passion and vision with you. This film is a labor of love, and we couldn’t do it without you. Thank you for being part of our journey!
.jpg)
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Colorist
Costs $1,500
A professional colorist is pivotal in making our film truly feel cinematic and have that "movie" feel!
Special Effects Makeup Artist
Costs $4,000
A special effects makeup artist is crucial to create realistic battle wounds and aged, weathered Viking warriors, vital for our story!
Costumes
Costs $2,500
When making a period accurate Viking piece, its extremely important to us that the costumes need to be detailed and realistic!
Catering
Costs $2,500
Catering and food is pivotal in keeping our cast and crew fueled to make this production happy! Help us feed our hard working team!
Key Crew Members
Costs $2,500
While we have many volunteers, a few key positions we are getting professionals to take our film to the next level!
Production Design
Costs $2,000
Props, Props, and more Props! We want to bring this story to life in the best way possible, and that starts with the highest quality props!
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
About This Team
Chris Smith- Producing Lead

Chris Smith is a New York-based executive producer and 3D artist originally from Houston, Texas. Chris is committed to embracing the ever-evolving landscape of the entertainment industry, with previous experience at 1stAveMachine, Likely Story Production Company, and as a producer on several award winning short films. He actively seeks out and incorporates new technologies and storytelling methods to create compelling, cutting-edge content that captivates and engages audiences worldwide.
Elliana Bertrand- Producing Lead

Elliana Bertrand is a screenwriter, director, and producer completing her Master's degree in NYU Tisch's inaugural Virtual Production program. Merging her AI research background from Baylor University with her storytelling expertise, she creates compelling content that raises awareness about technological ethics, digital innovation, and human connection in our rapidly evolving world. Her work thoughtfully explores the relationship between traditional filmmaking and emerging technologies, engaging audiences with relevant narratives about AI's impact on society, digital transformation, and the future of human creativity.
Ziyi Zhang- Production Designer

Ziyi Zhang is an art director, new media artist, and real-time 3D rendering specialist, whose work explores the intersection of digital technology, immersive environments, and interactive storytelling. With a foundation in Unreal Engine, Maya, and creative coding, Ziyi pushes the boundaries of virtual and physical realities to create experiences that challenge traditional perceptions of art. Ziyi is currently pursuing MPS in Virtual Production from NYU Tisch School of the Arts’ Martin Scorsese Virtual Production Center and hold a Bachelor of Design in Interaction Design from Nanyang Technological University. Her work has been exhibited internationally, from China and Singapore to Europe and the US, with recent highlights including Ars Electronica Festival in Austria (2023) and Singapore’s iconic Landmark Building Ten Square (2023).
Christina Wang- Cinematographer and Editor

Indie film producer and VFX compositor interested in exploring new creative possibilities.
James Watson- Virtual Art Department

Recent graduate and current Masters student combining my love for cinematography and storytelling through animation and VFX.
Joyce Hills- Virtual Production Supervisor

Joyce Hills is a screenwriter, 3D artist and filmmaker passionate about mastering technology in the service of artist empowerment and great storytelling! Currently earning her MPS in Virtual Production at NYU Tisch’s Martin Scorsese Virtual Production Center, Joyce loves fantasy, science fiction, and making inspiring projects with awesome people. In her worldbuilding in storytelling and in life, she prioritizes relationships, adventure, and innovation. Joyce has also studied at The New School, Writing Pad LA, and Stockade Works, and is originally from Saratoga Springs, NY.
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Welcome to our Journey!
What would you sacrifice for the one you love?
In the heart of a brutal Viking battlefield, two chieftains bound by love face a prophecy that only one of them will ascend to Valhalla. Torn between destiny and devotion, their final hours are filled with choices that will echo through eternity. This is more than a story of war—it’s a story of love, sacrifice, and the relentless pull of fate.
This project is the culmination of our passion for storytelling and our pursuit of mastering virtual production technology. Set against a richly dramatic backdrop, our film explores timeless themes of fate and sacrifice, while staying true to historical accuracy.
As students in NYU's inaugural Martin Scorsese Virtual Production Master's Program, we are honored to be part of history as the first class to create films in this groundbreaking facility. This unique opportunity allows us to set the standard, make our mark, and pave the way for future filmmakers. We hope to inspire generations of students to explore the endless possibilities of virtual production and storytelling in this program. Access to a virtual production stage, typically used for high-budget films, allows us to merge live-action and digital environments seamlessly, bringing an unparalleled level of depth and realism to our storytelling.
This isn’t just a thesis—it’s a chance to innovate, learning hands-on with tools that are reshaping the industry. By utilizing this advanced stage, we’re not only telling a powerful story but also preparing ourselves to be part of the future of filmmaking.
Your support will help us bring this vision to life, from building authentic sets to achieving the technical precision that virtual production demands. Join us in shaping the future of filmmaking—together, we can make this project unforgettable.


Our team is uniquely positioned to bring this story to life, thanks to our diverse backgrounds and shared commitment to storytelling. As students in NYU Tisch’s inaugural Martin Scorsese Virtual Production Master’s Program, we bring together expertise in screenwriting, AI research, cinematography, 3D design, and VFX, creating a dynamic collaboration where every perspective enhances the story. Most importantly, as students together, we aim to LEARN together!
This diversity of experience allows us to approach the narrative from multiple angles—melding traditional storytelling with new technologies, exploring the ethical and human themes at its core, and crafting visuals that are both authentic and imaginative. From award-winning producers to internationally exhibited artists, our team’s breadth of skills ensures that every detail, from world-building to character development, is thoughtfully executed.
We don’t just aim to tell a story—we aim to grow it into a deeply layered and emotionally impactful experience. With our unique blend of creative and technical expertise, we are not only breaking boundaries but also ensuring that this project reflects the depth and richness it deserves. We've got one chance together to use this virtual production stage to craft a story and we want to make the most of it!

What your contributions mean to us!
Your support fuels every aspect of this film, from the on-screen details to the people behind the scenes. Pledges will go toward creating authentic Viking-inspired costumes, intricate special makeup, and handcrafted props and weapons that are essential to immersing the audience in this story.
Beyond the visuals, your contributions allow us to hire key crew members who bring their expertise and passion to the project. We also prioritize taking care of our hardworking team—your generosity helps us provide meals, snacks, and essentials to keep everyone energized, happy, and focused on delivering their best work.
Every dollar you give directly impacts the quality of this production and the experience of everyone involved. Your support doesn’t just create a film—it creates a community. Thank you for helping us bring this vision to life!

Logline: Married Chieftains Aldrik and Hilda prepare for a decisive bloodbath after a Norn's prophesy that both of them will die in battle tomorrow, but only one will be carried to Valhalla.
Beginning: Viking Chieftain Aldrik encounters a mystical Norn in a dark forest, who prophesies that only he or his wife, Hilda, will be chosen to enter Valhalla after their final battle tomorrow.
Middle: Haunted by the prophecy, Aldrik and Hilda struggle with the weight of their fates, clashing over loyalty, honor, and love as they prepare for the inevitable battle against a fearsome enemy that will decide their destiny.
End: Aldrik refrains from fighting, sacrificing his place in Valhalla for Hilda. Out of grief and regret, a look into the past enables Hilda to transform into a Valkyrie and carry Aldrik’s soul to Valhalla herself.
.jpg)
Aldrik
Aldrik is a rugged, powerful Viking chieftain, his physique hardened and scarred from a life of battle. With shoulders broad enough to wield a massive two-handed axe and a wild mane of hair streaked with grit and age, Aldrik is the embodiment of a seasoned warrior. His face and body bear the marks of his past, each wound a testament to his fierce resilience; especially the near-fatal scar on his neck, earned from a defiant and renowned stand against the jötunn, Eldbjorn. However, beneath this fierce exterior lies a man deeply devoted to his wife, and torn between his love for her and his yearning for Valhalla’s eternal glory. Haunted by insecurity about his worthiness, he wrestles with his honor, masculinity, and the complex weight of Hilda's strength and opinions. When confronted by a prophecy that forces him to choose between his own glory and Hilda’s salvation, Aldrik’s love ultimately triumphs, revealing a selfless vulnerability that defies his warrior image and adds depth to his heroic persona.
Hilda
Hilda is a fierce, imposing figure, embodying the strength and resilience of a Viking warrior. Her physique is powerful, with a striking presence that commands respect both on and off the battlefield. She wears her white tunic adorned with intricate braids woven with white feathers, symbolizing her role as both wife and warrior. Hilda’s every move reflects her independence and formidable spirit, yet she harbors a deep love for Aldrik, bound by a fierce loyalty and shared history. Though stoic and unyielding, Hilda wrestles with the weight of the prophecy, which forces her to confront the possibility of losing Aldrik. Beneath her hardened exterior lies a tragic past full of longing and pride. Hilda is not all she seems, and not even her beloved husband knows the truth. Even as Hilda is torn between her own drive for honor and her love for her husband, Hilda is waging her own war inside and with the very gods themselves. When fate challenges her, Hilda defies the gods, sacrificing her own ambitions to reunite with Aldrik in the afterlife—a testament to her fierce devotion and the profound depth of her love.
Norn
The Norn is an enigmatic, mystical figure, embodying both the ancient wisdom and ominous power of fate. Shrouded in a spectral aura, she appears as an ageless, ethereal woman with piercing eyes that seem to see beyond mortal comprehension. Her movements are deliberate and haunting, and she carries an air of both menace and prophecy, weaving a tapestry of fate that trails around her and the immense tree she emerges from. Speaking in cryptic riddles, the Norn reveals unsettling truths, holding Aldrik’s destiny in her hands with an authority that feels as old as time itself.
Eldbjorn
Eldbjorn is a jötunn whose life is devoted to conquest and defiance of the Æsir. Believing that he has been chosen by the god Loki to lead a sect of his own forces in the battle at the end of the world, the war Ragnarök, Eldbjorn accumulates wealth and renown with a light conscience and no opposition…until he meets his mortal enemy, Aldrik.
Thank you!
Thank you for believing in us and in The Feather. Your support means the world to us and allows us to share our passion and vision with you. This film is a labor of love, and we couldn’t do it without you. Thank you for being part of our journey!
.jpg)
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Colorist
Costs $1,500
A professional colorist is pivotal in making our film truly feel cinematic and have that "movie" feel!
Special Effects Makeup Artist
Costs $4,000
A special effects makeup artist is crucial to create realistic battle wounds and aged, weathered Viking warriors, vital for our story!
Costumes
Costs $2,500
When making a period accurate Viking piece, its extremely important to us that the costumes need to be detailed and realistic!
Catering
Costs $2,500
Catering and food is pivotal in keeping our cast and crew fueled to make this production happy! Help us feed our hard working team!
Key Crew Members
Costs $2,500
While we have many volunteers, a few key positions we are getting professionals to take our film to the next level!
Production Design
Costs $2,000
Props, Props, and more Props! We want to bring this story to life in the best way possible, and that starts with the highest quality props!
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
About This Team
Chris Smith- Producing Lead

Chris Smith is a New York-based executive producer and 3D artist originally from Houston, Texas. Chris is committed to embracing the ever-evolving landscape of the entertainment industry, with previous experience at 1stAveMachine, Likely Story Production Company, and as a producer on several award winning short films. He actively seeks out and incorporates new technologies and storytelling methods to create compelling, cutting-edge content that captivates and engages audiences worldwide.
Elliana Bertrand- Producing Lead

Elliana Bertrand is a screenwriter, director, and producer completing her Master's degree in NYU Tisch's inaugural Virtual Production program. Merging her AI research background from Baylor University with her storytelling expertise, she creates compelling content that raises awareness about technological ethics, digital innovation, and human connection in our rapidly evolving world. Her work thoughtfully explores the relationship between traditional filmmaking and emerging technologies, engaging audiences with relevant narratives about AI's impact on society, digital transformation, and the future of human creativity.
Ziyi Zhang- Production Designer

Ziyi Zhang is an art director, new media artist, and real-time 3D rendering specialist, whose work explores the intersection of digital technology, immersive environments, and interactive storytelling. With a foundation in Unreal Engine, Maya, and creative coding, Ziyi pushes the boundaries of virtual and physical realities to create experiences that challenge traditional perceptions of art. Ziyi is currently pursuing MPS in Virtual Production from NYU Tisch School of the Arts’ Martin Scorsese Virtual Production Center and hold a Bachelor of Design in Interaction Design from Nanyang Technological University. Her work has been exhibited internationally, from China and Singapore to Europe and the US, with recent highlights including Ars Electronica Festival in Austria (2023) and Singapore’s iconic Landmark Building Ten Square (2023).
Christina Wang- Cinematographer and Editor

Indie film producer and VFX compositor interested in exploring new creative possibilities.
James Watson- Virtual Art Department

Recent graduate and current Masters student combining my love for cinematography and storytelling through animation and VFX.
Joyce Hills- Virtual Production Supervisor

Joyce Hills is a screenwriter, 3D artist and filmmaker passionate about mastering technology in the service of artist empowerment and great storytelling! Currently earning her MPS in Virtual Production at NYU Tisch’s Martin Scorsese Virtual Production Center, Joyce loves fantasy, science fiction, and making inspiring projects with awesome people. In her worldbuilding in storytelling and in life, she prioritizes relationships, adventure, and innovation. Joyce has also studied at The New School, Writing Pad LA, and Stockade Works, and is originally from Saratoga Springs, NY.
