The Haunting of Hype House
Los Angeles, California | Film Feature
Comedy, Horror
THE HAUNTING OF HYPE HOUSE: A horror-comedy about the value of community and being the best version of ourselves for others’ sake. With themes like these, it should be obvious why we would never dream of telling this story without your support.
The Haunting of Hype House
Los Angeles, California | Film Feature
Comedy, Horror
1 Campaigns | California, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $22,680 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
112 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
THE HAUNTING OF HYPE HOUSE: A horror-comedy about the value of community and being the best version of ourselves for others’ sake. With themes like these, it should be obvious why we would never dream of telling this story without your support.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
THE EXORCIST (1973) convinced the world that Ouija Boards are a dangerous tool that shouldn't be considered a game, but THE HAUNTING OF HYPE HOUSE wants to make Ouija Boards fun again. Plus, it'd be cool if we could make you think about death and get sad and stuff (if you got that reference, this is the movie for you). Here's a quick introduction to the world of the story:
In 1969, an unspeakable death takes place on a quiet mountainside somewhere around the outskirts of LA. 50 years later, that same mountainside has become part of a new trend of upscale living for the rich, famous, and... influential.
This is where we find JARED ZENITH, a young social-media mogul. Living with his overworked, underappreciated assistant MIKE, Jared has developed quite a fanbase through bi-weekly vlogs featuring outlandish antics: pranks, stunts, and JUMP SCARES. Today he takes on his most personal victim yet: ERIC, his brother, finally visiting after a long stint abroad. Jared is less concerned about catching-up though, and more focused on getting even with Eric for "abandoning" him. Jared had some issues to work through, but they're hard to notice when he's constantly surrounded by clout-chasers and metaphorical clowns: tonight's companions include AVA, his current flame, and BRITT, Ava's best friend and better half.
It's a regular night in the house of Zenith: drinks, jokes, and debauchery. But when Eric experiences a horror unrelated to Jared's usual shenanigans (a supernatural scare too obvious to ignore), the group decides to make contact through a homemade Ouija Board (there's a DIY Video for just about anything on the internet).
So: the stage is set, the players are in place, and the lights are lowered (but still bright enough so Mike can film everything). Once their seance begins the night kicks into high gear, and when one of their own is possessed, it turns out... it might be for the best?
From the creator:
"I came up with this idea THREE YEARS AGO when I thought of one simple question: what if a ghost possessed a really unlikeable guy, and his friends realized they liked the ghost more than their buddy?
Thus was born a movie. I put the idea on hold when I realized there was no way I could tell it in any way but a feature-length project, but a few things have changed since then: one, I've gained far more experience and confidence. And two... Tik-Tok. This is not a joke; the advent of Tik-Tok has created the perfect climate for our film; a story about somebody no one likes, obsessed with their own identity above all else. Nowadays, we see this type of person all over the place-- but now we're looking to have some fun with it."
~ Matt Farren (Writer/Co-Director)
While the previous two factors are illustrations of why this film is perfect for our time, there's a few reasons why this film is perfect TO BE MADE at this time:
Without the pandemic we would never have found the boldness to take on such a massive effort. When opportunities dried up, we created our own and found the confidence to keep creating independent projects. Now, as people slowly reconnect in person, it's important to examine practices to ensure healthy relationships going forward. This film does just that. Now is the best time to get into production because our themes directly tie into the state of the world, and because this project was born out of a need to safely create work and opportunities for those who thought they lost-out on their future goals due to the pandemic.
The pandemic has impacted all of our aspirations-- so we developed a project we knew we could create safely. The film largely takes place in a single, spacious location, with a small cast and minimal crew. The majority of our team has been vaccinated and have the ability to get tested, and those who are unable to get vaccinated are prepared to get tested consistently. The health of our team is more important than any project we could ever work on, and our work practices will reflect that.
Beyond the semantics, The Haunting of Hype House really is the perfect project for us: a fast-paced horror-comedy with real people rethinking their life choices. It's got a great sense of humor, a riveting story, and we're lucky enough to have been blessed with the perfect circle of friends/collaborators to help bring this story to life. However, though I have the utmost faith in this team, we just can't do it alone. This is where you come in:
This project would be impossible without your support. We're sure you know that our success is your success and your contribution won't go to waste, but we'd like to add another reason to join with us; do you wanna see a good movie? Furthermore, don't you want to be a PART of a good movie?
THE HAUNTING OF HYPE HOUSE puts a fresh spin on familiar tropes: ghostly possessions, near-death experiences, and the horrors of interpersonal relationships, all while examining identity, family, and the effects our actions have on others. This project would be nothing without the incredible community that inspired it, and we're turning to that same community to push this vision from words on a page to pictures on a screen.
These are our guarantees: one, with your support this film could be immaculately made, with the frenetic camera-movement of THE SUICIDE SQUAD (2021) meeting the stylized neon-night photography from LAST NIGHT IN SOHO (2021). And two, you would actually be a part of the filmmaking process, whether or not you're able (or want) to join us on set. If that doesn't excite you, we don't know what does.
No matter what your means are, you are able to help us make this project. Here's how:
GET CONNECTED:
Follow us on social media (@theh.o.h.h), but also follow us here (on seedandspark.com)!! The more we grow our audience on Seed and Spark, the more they will help us through this difficult process. The benefits include products, services, festival entry waivers, and more! Plus, you'd get consistent updates on our work. It's a win-win.
TELL YOUR FRIENDS!
We've given ourselves a guargantuan goal, but we know it's within reach as long as we have the help of our friends, and the friends of our friends! Show off the trailer, posters, social-media, or--I don't know--actually talk to people (crazy)! Don't know what to say? Easy! Check out these examples:
1. My friend @mjfarren is putting together a feature-length horror-comedy, but he's looking for help to get the project done!
2. Just saw the trailer for "The Haunting of Hype House" and now I just want to see more.
3. It's so exciting being able to see a film being made from beginning to end. If you're curious about the process, have I got the opportunity for you:
BAM. With all three messages, just slap a little "Join/support/check-out this project at www.seedandspark.com/fund/the-haunting-of-hype-house" and you're good to go!
CONTRIBUTE:
With a pledge to our campaign you're not only providing a tangible step towards our goal, but guaranteeing yourself one of our many cool perks/prizes. From clothing, credits, and cool on-set experiences, to a streamable premiere-access copy of the film, there's something for everyone. Not looking for anything in return? You also have the choice to give/loan specific items on our wishlist!
You can check out our other incentives on this same page, but we want to leave you with one last thought about our plans:
The script is written, the shoot is planned, and our team is set. We just need the budget to start rolling. Then, we're off to the festivals. We'll be touring all over, playing this film for the biggest crowds we can. Our personal goal with this project is to use it to meet other people who love filmmaking and who might want to help us (or even join us) on our journey into the industry. This film will act as our foot in the door. And who knows? It might just be yours too.
Thank you for all the support you've already shown us, and here's to the great work we'll be able to do together. Until then... HAPPY HAUNTING!!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Music and Lyrics
Costs $2,500
There is no movie without music. This covers Royal’s costs and the songs we want to license.
Meals for the Cast & Crew
Costs $6,000
Did you know that feeding the cast & crew usually takes up more budget than anything? Because we do.
Special Guest Stars
Costs $5,000
We hope to cast a couple special guest stars in our opening scene. This should guarantee our success
Cine-Gear
Costs $7,000
Camera equipment, rigging, and so much lighting for the first bright horror film since Midsommar.
Production Design
Costs $1,500
Costumes, set-dec, and props. This is to make the world of the film feel real.
Sound Equipment/Rentals
Costs $2,000
Without good sound, we’ll be dead (no pun intended) in the water.
Share this update!
About This Team
Our cast and crew have been assembled from all over the U.S., each bringing their own unique range of experience; plays, music videos, and many, MANY short films. However, what's more important is that they all bring a degree of skill and confidence that will prove more than invaluable on our set.
There's a further reason we've selected each and every one of our team: simply put, we believe in them.
EVERY SINGLE ONE OF US is approaching this project with the mentality of, "this is it!" Not that this is our last chance and if we don't get famous next year we'll never work on a film again, but that this will be the project that gets us on the proverbial map.
Simply put: we believe in this film.
Get to know our team down below, but if you don't wanna read that far, WE WANT YOU TO KNOW ONE THING: everyone in our cast/crew will be doing this for the rest of our lives. We're betting on this project being the beginning that ensures our bright futures... And we're hoping you're willing to bet on us too.
Matt Farren (Writer, Co-Director, Producer)
With a Bachelors in Screenwriting from Loyola Marymount University (plus a minor in Theater Arts and an Associates in Film Production), Matt Farren has known he was gonna make films since he was a kid. After moving to LA (a month after turning 18), Farren produced numerous short films and worked on a handful of professional sets (in addition to working in multiple restaurants). Now, he's ready to make his boldest step forward; his debut feature-film.
Brandon Douglas (Co-Director, Director of Photography)
If making videos with his sisters from nine years old wasn't enough, then how about almost 15 years of storytelling experience. You can always either find a coffee or a camera in his hand. After graduating from Biola University with a degree in Digital Production B.A. (Bad A$$) Brandon keeps chasing the dream of narrative storytelling. So if you like pina colada's and getting caught in the rain, then look for me because I'm already there and if you catch me smiling to myself it's probably about something funny I heard earlier that day.
Royal Dean (Composer)
Royal Dean is a versatile composer whose goal is to serve and fulfill the musical needs of visual storytellers. Born and raised in the LA area, Royal first received classical piano lessons from his mother. As a teen, Royal wrote piano songs and had original ideas that he would record on his Yamaha keyboard, and during his senior year of high school, Royal was asked to score a short film and later his first feature (“End of The Trail”) both directed by his high school film teacher. He has since received his Bachelors in Music with a focus on Commercial and Media Writing at Cal State Northridge, scoring a wide range of projects from short films, feature films, animation shorts and podcast music. Royal is passionate about partnering with likeminded creators to create meaningful stories, one frame, one word, one musical note at a time.
Ben Danielson (Producer)
Ben is an experienced producer who has a passion for both narrative work and music videos. Originally from Boston, he now works on set with world class talent like Megan Trainor, Chloe Kim, and more. He couldn’t be more excited to be a part of this production!
Sarah Casey (Producer)
Sarah Casey is a 2021 grad of Loyola Marymount University’s Screenwriting program, and recently joined the team at Brian Tyler Studio. She dreams of early retirement in the hills of Sicily, harvesting grapes from her private vineyard, and documenting life in the verdant countryside. For now, she resides in Los Angeles with a friendly neighborhood cat she sometimes sees.
Michael Anthony (Eric)
Mahlon Tracy (Mike)
Mahlon Tracy is a student at CSU Northridge studying digital filmmaking. He’s been working in both short and long form film projects for several years, but this is his first feature length acting role. He hopes you enjoy the ride!
Matt Farren (Jared)
Yeah, you've already heard enough from this guy, feel free to skip...
Madeleine Quinn (Britt)
Hailing from Kansas City, Missouri, Madeleine Quinn's love for performance and storytelling began through dance. She grew up competing in baton twirling before shifting into acting, leading her to move to Los Angeles in 2017 to pursue a Theatre Arts degree at Loyola Marymount University and chase her dreams of acting in film and television. She has since fallen in love with the palm trees, the mountains, and the vibrant creative community that Los Angeles offers. She claims that scary movies don't scare her, but who knows, The Haunting of Hype House might just break that trend-- after all, there's nothing quite like living it. Stay tuned to find out.
Kris Bramson (Ava)
Kris Bramson (she/her) is an actor, singer, and artist. Proudly Salvadoran, Jewish and queer; Kris is a SoCal girl born and raised - although she is currently based in NYC! She is a pandemic graduate from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, where she studied with both the Atlantic Acting School and Stonestreet Studios. Favorite roles include: Mamie in Algorithm (Floor Five Theatre Company), Ellen in Disassembly (Atlantic Acting School), Maria in West Side Story (Conejo Players Theatre). She is beyond ecstatic to work with the Hype House team to bring this vibrant story to death. Uh-- I mean life.
Roman Broussard (John)
Born in Louisiana and now an Air Force veteran, Roman Broussard recently graduated Loyola Marymount University’s Theatre Arts program of ‘21. His latest work includes Damien, directed by Matt Farren & Brandon Douglas, and a space horror short film directed by Igor Volkov. He looks forward to working on stage and in film. He resides in Los Angeles, CA with his wife Corinna.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
THE EXORCIST (1973) convinced the world that Ouija Boards are a dangerous tool that shouldn't be considered a game, but THE HAUNTING OF HYPE HOUSE wants to make Ouija Boards fun again. Plus, it'd be cool if we could make you think about death and get sad and stuff (if you got that reference, this is the movie for you). Here's a quick introduction to the world of the story:
In 1969, an unspeakable death takes place on a quiet mountainside somewhere around the outskirts of LA. 50 years later, that same mountainside has become part of a new trend of upscale living for the rich, famous, and... influential.
This is where we find JARED ZENITH, a young social-media mogul. Living with his overworked, underappreciated assistant MIKE, Jared has developed quite a fanbase through bi-weekly vlogs featuring outlandish antics: pranks, stunts, and JUMP SCARES. Today he takes on his most personal victim yet: ERIC, his brother, finally visiting after a long stint abroad. Jared is less concerned about catching-up though, and more focused on getting even with Eric for "abandoning" him. Jared had some issues to work through, but they're hard to notice when he's constantly surrounded by clout-chasers and metaphorical clowns: tonight's companions include AVA, his current flame, and BRITT, Ava's best friend and better half.
It's a regular night in the house of Zenith: drinks, jokes, and debauchery. But when Eric experiences a horror unrelated to Jared's usual shenanigans (a supernatural scare too obvious to ignore), the group decides to make contact through a homemade Ouija Board (there's a DIY Video for just about anything on the internet).
So: the stage is set, the players are in place, and the lights are lowered (but still bright enough so Mike can film everything). Once their seance begins the night kicks into high gear, and when one of their own is possessed, it turns out... it might be for the best?
From the creator:
"I came up with this idea THREE YEARS AGO when I thought of one simple question: what if a ghost possessed a really unlikeable guy, and his friends realized they liked the ghost more than their buddy?
Thus was born a movie. I put the idea on hold when I realized there was no way I could tell it in any way but a feature-length project, but a few things have changed since then: one, I've gained far more experience and confidence. And two... Tik-Tok. This is not a joke; the advent of Tik-Tok has created the perfect climate for our film; a story about somebody no one likes, obsessed with their own identity above all else. Nowadays, we see this type of person all over the place-- but now we're looking to have some fun with it."
~ Matt Farren (Writer/Co-Director)
While the previous two factors are illustrations of why this film is perfect for our time, there's a few reasons why this film is perfect TO BE MADE at this time:
Without the pandemic we would never have found the boldness to take on such a massive effort. When opportunities dried up, we created our own and found the confidence to keep creating independent projects. Now, as people slowly reconnect in person, it's important to examine practices to ensure healthy relationships going forward. This film does just that. Now is the best time to get into production because our themes directly tie into the state of the world, and because this project was born out of a need to safely create work and opportunities for those who thought they lost-out on their future goals due to the pandemic.
The pandemic has impacted all of our aspirations-- so we developed a project we knew we could create safely. The film largely takes place in a single, spacious location, with a small cast and minimal crew. The majority of our team has been vaccinated and have the ability to get tested, and those who are unable to get vaccinated are prepared to get tested consistently. The health of our team is more important than any project we could ever work on, and our work practices will reflect that.
Beyond the semantics, The Haunting of Hype House really is the perfect project for us: a fast-paced horror-comedy with real people rethinking their life choices. It's got a great sense of humor, a riveting story, and we're lucky enough to have been blessed with the perfect circle of friends/collaborators to help bring this story to life. However, though I have the utmost faith in this team, we just can't do it alone. This is where you come in:
This project would be impossible without your support. We're sure you know that our success is your success and your contribution won't go to waste, but we'd like to add another reason to join with us; do you wanna see a good movie? Furthermore, don't you want to be a PART of a good movie?
THE HAUNTING OF HYPE HOUSE puts a fresh spin on familiar tropes: ghostly possessions, near-death experiences, and the horrors of interpersonal relationships, all while examining identity, family, and the effects our actions have on others. This project would be nothing without the incredible community that inspired it, and we're turning to that same community to push this vision from words on a page to pictures on a screen.
These are our guarantees: one, with your support this film could be immaculately made, with the frenetic camera-movement of THE SUICIDE SQUAD (2021) meeting the stylized neon-night photography from LAST NIGHT IN SOHO (2021). And two, you would actually be a part of the filmmaking process, whether or not you're able (or want) to join us on set. If that doesn't excite you, we don't know what does.
No matter what your means are, you are able to help us make this project. Here's how:
GET CONNECTED:
Follow us on social media (@theh.o.h.h), but also follow us here (on seedandspark.com)!! The more we grow our audience on Seed and Spark, the more they will help us through this difficult process. The benefits include products, services, festival entry waivers, and more! Plus, you'd get consistent updates on our work. It's a win-win.
TELL YOUR FRIENDS!
We've given ourselves a guargantuan goal, but we know it's within reach as long as we have the help of our friends, and the friends of our friends! Show off the trailer, posters, social-media, or--I don't know--actually talk to people (crazy)! Don't know what to say? Easy! Check out these examples:
1. My friend @mjfarren is putting together a feature-length horror-comedy, but he's looking for help to get the project done!
2. Just saw the trailer for "The Haunting of Hype House" and now I just want to see more.
3. It's so exciting being able to see a film being made from beginning to end. If you're curious about the process, have I got the opportunity for you:
BAM. With all three messages, just slap a little "Join/support/check-out this project at www.seedandspark.com/fund/the-haunting-of-hype-house" and you're good to go!
CONTRIBUTE:
With a pledge to our campaign you're not only providing a tangible step towards our goal, but guaranteeing yourself one of our many cool perks/prizes. From clothing, credits, and cool on-set experiences, to a streamable premiere-access copy of the film, there's something for everyone. Not looking for anything in return? You also have the choice to give/loan specific items on our wishlist!
You can check out our other incentives on this same page, but we want to leave you with one last thought about our plans:
The script is written, the shoot is planned, and our team is set. We just need the budget to start rolling. Then, we're off to the festivals. We'll be touring all over, playing this film for the biggest crowds we can. Our personal goal with this project is to use it to meet other people who love filmmaking and who might want to help us (or even join us) on our journey into the industry. This film will act as our foot in the door. And who knows? It might just be yours too.
Thank you for all the support you've already shown us, and here's to the great work we'll be able to do together. Until then... HAPPY HAUNTING!!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Music and Lyrics
Costs $2,500
There is no movie without music. This covers Royal’s costs and the songs we want to license.
Meals for the Cast & Crew
Costs $6,000
Did you know that feeding the cast & crew usually takes up more budget than anything? Because we do.
Special Guest Stars
Costs $5,000
We hope to cast a couple special guest stars in our opening scene. This should guarantee our success
Cine-Gear
Costs $7,000
Camera equipment, rigging, and so much lighting for the first bright horror film since Midsommar.
Production Design
Costs $1,500
Costumes, set-dec, and props. This is to make the world of the film feel real.
Sound Equipment/Rentals
Costs $2,000
Without good sound, we’ll be dead (no pun intended) in the water.
Share this update!
About This Team
Our cast and crew have been assembled from all over the U.S., each bringing their own unique range of experience; plays, music videos, and many, MANY short films. However, what's more important is that they all bring a degree of skill and confidence that will prove more than invaluable on our set.
There's a further reason we've selected each and every one of our team: simply put, we believe in them.
EVERY SINGLE ONE OF US is approaching this project with the mentality of, "this is it!" Not that this is our last chance and if we don't get famous next year we'll never work on a film again, but that this will be the project that gets us on the proverbial map.
Simply put: we believe in this film.
Get to know our team down below, but if you don't wanna read that far, WE WANT YOU TO KNOW ONE THING: everyone in our cast/crew will be doing this for the rest of our lives. We're betting on this project being the beginning that ensures our bright futures... And we're hoping you're willing to bet on us too.
Matt Farren (Writer, Co-Director, Producer)
With a Bachelors in Screenwriting from Loyola Marymount University (plus a minor in Theater Arts and an Associates in Film Production), Matt Farren has known he was gonna make films since he was a kid. After moving to LA (a month after turning 18), Farren produced numerous short films and worked on a handful of professional sets (in addition to working in multiple restaurants). Now, he's ready to make his boldest step forward; his debut feature-film.
Brandon Douglas (Co-Director, Director of Photography)
If making videos with his sisters from nine years old wasn't enough, then how about almost 15 years of storytelling experience. You can always either find a coffee or a camera in his hand. After graduating from Biola University with a degree in Digital Production B.A. (Bad A$$) Brandon keeps chasing the dream of narrative storytelling. So if you like pina colada's and getting caught in the rain, then look for me because I'm already there and if you catch me smiling to myself it's probably about something funny I heard earlier that day.
Royal Dean (Composer)
Royal Dean is a versatile composer whose goal is to serve and fulfill the musical needs of visual storytellers. Born and raised in the LA area, Royal first received classical piano lessons from his mother. As a teen, Royal wrote piano songs and had original ideas that he would record on his Yamaha keyboard, and during his senior year of high school, Royal was asked to score a short film and later his first feature (“End of The Trail”) both directed by his high school film teacher. He has since received his Bachelors in Music with a focus on Commercial and Media Writing at Cal State Northridge, scoring a wide range of projects from short films, feature films, animation shorts and podcast music. Royal is passionate about partnering with likeminded creators to create meaningful stories, one frame, one word, one musical note at a time.
Ben Danielson (Producer)
Ben is an experienced producer who has a passion for both narrative work and music videos. Originally from Boston, he now works on set with world class talent like Megan Trainor, Chloe Kim, and more. He couldn’t be more excited to be a part of this production!
Sarah Casey (Producer)
Sarah Casey is a 2021 grad of Loyola Marymount University’s Screenwriting program, and recently joined the team at Brian Tyler Studio. She dreams of early retirement in the hills of Sicily, harvesting grapes from her private vineyard, and documenting life in the verdant countryside. For now, she resides in Los Angeles with a friendly neighborhood cat she sometimes sees.
Michael Anthony (Eric)
Mahlon Tracy (Mike)
Mahlon Tracy is a student at CSU Northridge studying digital filmmaking. He’s been working in both short and long form film projects for several years, but this is his first feature length acting role. He hopes you enjoy the ride!
Matt Farren (Jared)
Yeah, you've already heard enough from this guy, feel free to skip...
Madeleine Quinn (Britt)
Hailing from Kansas City, Missouri, Madeleine Quinn's love for performance and storytelling began through dance. She grew up competing in baton twirling before shifting into acting, leading her to move to Los Angeles in 2017 to pursue a Theatre Arts degree at Loyola Marymount University and chase her dreams of acting in film and television. She has since fallen in love with the palm trees, the mountains, and the vibrant creative community that Los Angeles offers. She claims that scary movies don't scare her, but who knows, The Haunting of Hype House might just break that trend-- after all, there's nothing quite like living it. Stay tuned to find out.
Kris Bramson (Ava)
Kris Bramson (she/her) is an actor, singer, and artist. Proudly Salvadoran, Jewish and queer; Kris is a SoCal girl born and raised - although she is currently based in NYC! She is a pandemic graduate from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, where she studied with both the Atlantic Acting School and Stonestreet Studios. Favorite roles include: Mamie in Algorithm (Floor Five Theatre Company), Ellen in Disassembly (Atlantic Acting School), Maria in West Side Story (Conejo Players Theatre). She is beyond ecstatic to work with the Hype House team to bring this vibrant story to death. Uh-- I mean life.
Roman Broussard (John)
Born in Louisiana and now an Air Force veteran, Roman Broussard recently graduated Loyola Marymount University’s Theatre Arts program of ‘21. His latest work includes Damien, directed by Matt Farren & Brandon Douglas, and a space horror short film directed by Igor Volkov. He looks forward to working on stage and in film. He resides in Los Angeles, CA with his wife Corinna.