The Weight of Quiet Things
Salt Lake City, Utah | Film Feature
Drama, Thriller
Nora's birthday camping trip with fiancé Alex becomes a nightmare when his college friends Chuck and Brenna show up uninvited. As boundaries blur and past secrets come to light, Nora begins to see that the man she's engaged to may be a stranger after all.
The Weight of Quiet Things
Salt Lake City, Utah | Film Feature
Drama, Thriller
1 Campaigns |
Green Light
This campaign raised $15,050 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
158 supporters | followers
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Nora's birthday camping trip with fiancé Alex becomes a nightmare when his college friends Chuck and Brenna show up uninvited. As boundaries blur and past secrets come to light, Nora begins to see that the man she's engaged to may be a stranger after all.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
The viral “Man vs Bear” debate revealed a striking disconnect between men and women’s lived realities. While women overwhelmingly chose the bear without hesitation, many men reacted with confusion or even offense. In an ideal world, women would instinctively answer “man”, but instead, their choice reflects the deep fears born from lived experience. Choosing a wild animal over a human companion is not exaggeration; it’s an indictment of the safety women too often lack, shaped by the alarmingly high rates of sexual assault and violence they face, most often at the hands of men.
In the U.S., these fears are tragically grounded in reality. Nearly 1 in 5 women will experience attempted or completed rape in her lifetime—yet only about a quarter of those assaults are ever reported (nsvrc.org). Nearly 1 in 4 women endure severe physical violence from a partner, and almost half face psychological aggression (thecompasscenter.org). On average, 20 people every minute are victimized by intimate partner violence (gitnux.org).
The impact doesn’t end with the incident. Survivors often carry lifelong trauma: PTSD, depression, chronic health issues, and injury. For many, abuse leads to homelessness—up to half of homeless women are fleeing violence (zipdo.co, en.wikipedia.org). And in the most devastating cases, it turns fatal: over 50% of female homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner (theglobalstatistics.com).
That’s why The Weight of Quiet Things matters. It doesn’t just recount statistics—it humanizes them, demanding that these numbers be seen for what they truly are: women’s lives, choices, and safety. Make a pledge now, and contribute to the cause.
Premise of The Weight of Quiet Things Indie Feature
Nora, a trained jiu jitsu fighter, just wanted a quiet birthday with her fiancé Alex in the woods. She envisioned peace, nature, and quality time together. Instead, she finds herself trapped in a weekend that slowly reveals the true nature of her relationship and the man she thought she knew.
Alex's college friends Chuck and Brenna unexpectedly join their trip, Nora becomes increasingly isolated and marginalized. What begins as uncomfortable conversations and dismissive behavior escalates into something far more sinister. The film explores the insidious nature of emotional manipulation and how it can evolve into physical violence, all while examining the famous "Man vs. Bear" question through a deeply personal and terrifying lens.
Set against the beautiful yet isolating backdrop of the wilderness, The Weight of Quiet Things brings the viral "Man vs. Bear" debate to life through Nora's harrowing experience. The film forces audiences to confront why so many people would choose the bear—examining the predictable danger of a wild animal versus the unpredictable threat that men can pose. This isn't just a story about surviving violence; it's about understanding the social constructs that make women feel safer with a predator than with half the human population.
Through Nora's journey, we explore how seemingly innocent relationship dynamics can mask deeper patterns of control and manipulation. The film serves as both a mirror and a magnifying glass, helping viewers recognize these patterns in their own relationships before they escalate into something more dangerous.
Make a pledge now, and contribute to the cause.
Funding Break Down
Reaching over 1,000,000 people through social media we have an audience that is brewing and aching to see The Weight of Quiet Things. And to make it a reality we only need $15,000. YES! we are making an Indie feature film for $15,000 (Imagine what it could be with more.) This film has the potential to reach droves of people across the U.S. and even the world. Make your voice heard to make a change.
When does the Vision Come to Life?
The funds raised will be put to immediate use during our filming dates of September 19th-21st and 26th-28th, covering essential production costs including equipment, locations, crew, set design, and marketing. Every donation, regardless of size, plays a crucial role in amplifying the voices of survivors and encourages people to dive into their own relationships by providing the resources needed for our team to work at their best. our support doesn't just fund a movie; it empowers a community of storytellers to ensure survivor voices are heard, respected, and brought to life with the dignity and authenticity they deserve.
Make a pledge now, and contribute to the cause.
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Cast and crew
Costs $7,000
It's important each person on our team feels valued as well as compensated and creativily fulfilled!
Unique set design
Costs $1,000
This creates a unique setting for the final scene of the movie. It enhances the theme of the film while separating it from most other films.
Gear Rentals
Costs $2,000
This enhances the whole production and creates the image you see, without gear there is no movie!
CRAFTYYYYY
Costs $2,000
we must feed the army
Location
Costs $1,000
quality locations = quality movie ;)
Marketing
Costs $2,000
The thing about our film... WE NEED PEOPLE TO SEE IT! Our film will impact people on another level if we can get it in front of them.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Shane R. Nolan is an award-winning screenwriter and director with credits spanning writing, directing, producing, and acting. His feature script, Obsession’s Rising, won “Best Original Screenplay – Feature” at the Zepstone International Film & Music Festival (2025, third round), advancing as a quarterly winner. He also wrote for The Memories That Follow, an award-winner at the 2025 Salt Lake City 48-Hour Film Project. Nolan co-directed and wrote the screenplay for the 2025 short FLESH, playing a vital role in every aspect of its creation, before going on to write, direct, and produce A Gift At Your Door (2025). Expanding into collaboration, he worked as Script Editor for Calupoh Films’ feature Stay Awhile. Nolan has also stepped in front of the camera, acting in #Indie and taking on the role of the “Deity” in the forthcoming feature Francesca, where he is a pre-production advisor. Actively writing new works, Nolan is developing numerous projects throughout Utah.
Olivia Wilkinson, starring as NORA, is an accomplished film actress with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting from Southern Utah University. Her comprehensive training includes Meisner technique, Suzuki method, and over 15 years of dance training, making her an expert in the physical aspects of performance. She holds certifications in stage combat, bringing authenticity and precision to demanding action sequences. Beyond her artistic achievements, Olivia is a passionate advocate who has spearheaded initiatives to combat sexual violence and domestic violence, cultivating valuable partnerships with local businesses and organizations including FADV. Her combination of technical excellence and social consciousness makes her both a sought-after performer and meaningful collaborator.
Blake Henrie is an accomplished cinematographer and creative collaborator known for expertly crafting visual narratives through innovative lighting and camera work. Their cinematography for Blooming Wounds earned recognition for a cinematography award, showcasing their mastery in telling stories through light and visual composition.
As a gaffer-turned-cinematographer, he brings unique expertise in lighting design that translates seamlessly into compelling cinematic storytelling. Their collaborative approach to filmmaking emphasizes creating an inclusive creative environment where every team member can contribute meaningfully to the project's vision.
Cera Gibson, starring as Brenna, is a multi-talented artist and passionate advocate whose work spans music, voice acting, and screen performance. As an accomplished musician, she has built a substantial following of over 1,000,000 people across social media platforms, showcasing her ability to connect with audiences through her artistry and authentic voice. has established herself as a force for positive social impact, using her platform and influence to support causes close to her heart.
Matheus Santos, known professionally as Teo Santos, starring as CHUCK, is a Brazilian producer, actor and writer based in Los Angeles and Salt Lake City. Teo was born in São Paulo, Brazil in the 90's, is fluent in English, Portuguese, Spanish, and Japanese, and he is of Portuguese, African, Middle Eastern, and Indigenous ancestry. Teo's most recent work includes the Sundance 2025 feature film "Omaha" directed by Cole Weebly, the Paramount Pictures film "Image of You" directed by Jeff Fisher, the Christmas film "Destined 2: Christmas Once More" by Candlelight Media, and several other indie feature and short films.
In his own work, Teo believes storytelling is at the heart of humanity. He aims to create human-centered films that not only entertain, but illuminate diverse experiences, spark dialogue, and educate audiences. Films have the unique power to tell stories that illuminate others perspectives and can create a pipeline to empathy. His goal as a filmmaker is to create human-centered films that not only entertain, but drive meaningful social impact.
Jarod Lewis, starring as ALEX, is a theatrically trained actor who seamlessly translates his stage expertise to compelling screen performances. A graduate of Southern Utah University, Lewis brings both formal education and extensive practical experience to his craft, demonstrating remarkable versatility across multiple performance mediums.
His theatrical foundation includes performances in Shakespeare and other classical productions, providing him with a strong command of dramatic techniques that enhance his on-screen presence. Lewis's stage training is evident in his nuanced approach to character development and his ability to deliver powerful, authentic performances.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
The viral “Man vs Bear” debate revealed a striking disconnect between men and women’s lived realities. While women overwhelmingly chose the bear without hesitation, many men reacted with confusion or even offense. In an ideal world, women would instinctively answer “man”, but instead, their choice reflects the deep fears born from lived experience. Choosing a wild animal over a human companion is not exaggeration; it’s an indictment of the safety women too often lack, shaped by the alarmingly high rates of sexual assault and violence they face, most often at the hands of men.
In the U.S., these fears are tragically grounded in reality. Nearly 1 in 5 women will experience attempted or completed rape in her lifetime—yet only about a quarter of those assaults are ever reported (nsvrc.org). Nearly 1 in 4 women endure severe physical violence from a partner, and almost half face psychological aggression (thecompasscenter.org). On average, 20 people every minute are victimized by intimate partner violence (gitnux.org).
The impact doesn’t end with the incident. Survivors often carry lifelong trauma: PTSD, depression, chronic health issues, and injury. For many, abuse leads to homelessness—up to half of homeless women are fleeing violence (zipdo.co, en.wikipedia.org). And in the most devastating cases, it turns fatal: over 50% of female homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner (theglobalstatistics.com).
That’s why The Weight of Quiet Things matters. It doesn’t just recount statistics—it humanizes them, demanding that these numbers be seen for what they truly are: women’s lives, choices, and safety. Make a pledge now, and contribute to the cause.
Premise of The Weight of Quiet Things Indie Feature
Nora, a trained jiu jitsu fighter, just wanted a quiet birthday with her fiancé Alex in the woods. She envisioned peace, nature, and quality time together. Instead, she finds herself trapped in a weekend that slowly reveals the true nature of her relationship and the man she thought she knew.
Alex's college friends Chuck and Brenna unexpectedly join their trip, Nora becomes increasingly isolated and marginalized. What begins as uncomfortable conversations and dismissive behavior escalates into something far more sinister. The film explores the insidious nature of emotional manipulation and how it can evolve into physical violence, all while examining the famous "Man vs. Bear" question through a deeply personal and terrifying lens.
Set against the beautiful yet isolating backdrop of the wilderness, The Weight of Quiet Things brings the viral "Man vs. Bear" debate to life through Nora's harrowing experience. The film forces audiences to confront why so many people would choose the bear—examining the predictable danger of a wild animal versus the unpredictable threat that men can pose. This isn't just a story about surviving violence; it's about understanding the social constructs that make women feel safer with a predator than with half the human population.
Through Nora's journey, we explore how seemingly innocent relationship dynamics can mask deeper patterns of control and manipulation. The film serves as both a mirror and a magnifying glass, helping viewers recognize these patterns in their own relationships before they escalate into something more dangerous.
Make a pledge now, and contribute to the cause.
Funding Break Down
Reaching over 1,000,000 people through social media we have an audience that is brewing and aching to see The Weight of Quiet Things. And to make it a reality we only need $15,000. YES! we are making an Indie feature film for $15,000 (Imagine what it could be with more.) This film has the potential to reach droves of people across the U.S. and even the world. Make your voice heard to make a change.
When does the Vision Come to Life?
The funds raised will be put to immediate use during our filming dates of September 19th-21st and 26th-28th, covering essential production costs including equipment, locations, crew, set design, and marketing. Every donation, regardless of size, plays a crucial role in amplifying the voices of survivors and encourages people to dive into their own relationships by providing the resources needed for our team to work at their best. our support doesn't just fund a movie; it empowers a community of storytellers to ensure survivor voices are heard, respected, and brought to life with the dignity and authenticity they deserve.
Make a pledge now, and contribute to the cause.
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Cast and crew
Costs $7,000
It's important each person on our team feels valued as well as compensated and creativily fulfilled!
Unique set design
Costs $1,000
This creates a unique setting for the final scene of the movie. It enhances the theme of the film while separating it from most other films.
Gear Rentals
Costs $2,000
This enhances the whole production and creates the image you see, without gear there is no movie!
CRAFTYYYYY
Costs $2,000
we must feed the army
Location
Costs $1,000
quality locations = quality movie ;)
Marketing
Costs $2,000
The thing about our film... WE NEED PEOPLE TO SEE IT! Our film will impact people on another level if we can get it in front of them.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Shane R. Nolan is an award-winning screenwriter and director with credits spanning writing, directing, producing, and acting. His feature script, Obsession’s Rising, won “Best Original Screenplay – Feature” at the Zepstone International Film & Music Festival (2025, third round), advancing as a quarterly winner. He also wrote for The Memories That Follow, an award-winner at the 2025 Salt Lake City 48-Hour Film Project. Nolan co-directed and wrote the screenplay for the 2025 short FLESH, playing a vital role in every aspect of its creation, before going on to write, direct, and produce A Gift At Your Door (2025). Expanding into collaboration, he worked as Script Editor for Calupoh Films’ feature Stay Awhile. Nolan has also stepped in front of the camera, acting in #Indie and taking on the role of the “Deity” in the forthcoming feature Francesca, where he is a pre-production advisor. Actively writing new works, Nolan is developing numerous projects throughout Utah.
Olivia Wilkinson, starring as NORA, is an accomplished film actress with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting from Southern Utah University. Her comprehensive training includes Meisner technique, Suzuki method, and over 15 years of dance training, making her an expert in the physical aspects of performance. She holds certifications in stage combat, bringing authenticity and precision to demanding action sequences. Beyond her artistic achievements, Olivia is a passionate advocate who has spearheaded initiatives to combat sexual violence and domestic violence, cultivating valuable partnerships with local businesses and organizations including FADV. Her combination of technical excellence and social consciousness makes her both a sought-after performer and meaningful collaborator.
Blake Henrie is an accomplished cinematographer and creative collaborator known for expertly crafting visual narratives through innovative lighting and camera work. Their cinematography for Blooming Wounds earned recognition for a cinematography award, showcasing their mastery in telling stories through light and visual composition.
As a gaffer-turned-cinematographer, he brings unique expertise in lighting design that translates seamlessly into compelling cinematic storytelling. Their collaborative approach to filmmaking emphasizes creating an inclusive creative environment where every team member can contribute meaningfully to the project's vision.
Cera Gibson, starring as Brenna, is a multi-talented artist and passionate advocate whose work spans music, voice acting, and screen performance. As an accomplished musician, she has built a substantial following of over 1,000,000 people across social media platforms, showcasing her ability to connect with audiences through her artistry and authentic voice. has established herself as a force for positive social impact, using her platform and influence to support causes close to her heart.
Matheus Santos, known professionally as Teo Santos, starring as CHUCK, is a Brazilian producer, actor and writer based in Los Angeles and Salt Lake City. Teo was born in São Paulo, Brazil in the 90's, is fluent in English, Portuguese, Spanish, and Japanese, and he is of Portuguese, African, Middle Eastern, and Indigenous ancestry. Teo's most recent work includes the Sundance 2025 feature film "Omaha" directed by Cole Weebly, the Paramount Pictures film "Image of You" directed by Jeff Fisher, the Christmas film "Destined 2: Christmas Once More" by Candlelight Media, and several other indie feature and short films.
In his own work, Teo believes storytelling is at the heart of humanity. He aims to create human-centered films that not only entertain, but illuminate diverse experiences, spark dialogue, and educate audiences. Films have the unique power to tell stories that illuminate others perspectives and can create a pipeline to empathy. His goal as a filmmaker is to create human-centered films that not only entertain, but drive meaningful social impact.
Jarod Lewis, starring as ALEX, is a theatrically trained actor who seamlessly translates his stage expertise to compelling screen performances. A graduate of Southern Utah University, Lewis brings both formal education and extensive practical experience to his craft, demonstrating remarkable versatility across multiple performance mediums.
His theatrical foundation includes performances in Shakespeare and other classical productions, providing him with a strong command of dramatic techniques that enhance his on-screen presence. Lewis's stage training is evident in his nuanced approach to character development and his ability to deliver powerful, authentic performances.