"Thespis" is an experimental film, honoring theater performance and how it is a breathing, active art form, mixed and encapsulated with filmmaking as the visual medium. This film will have 6 themes, representing different forms and eras of theater, as a commemoration of theater’s history and future. In a non-linear, experimental fashion, this film is not only an homage to theater, but follows our main subject, an “Actress,” on her journey pursuing her dream to be on the stage, but at what cost to the perception of the world, social constructs, and being trapped by her glamoured, glittering life. Directed by Lane Haugum, as a Senior Capstone at Montana State University.

Director's Statement

My name is Lane Haugum. I have been a part of theater for 10 years, and it is a huge part of my life, not only being my future career and my passion, but it is mainly a source of inspiration that I can pull into filmmaking. This project is incredibly personal to me. Despite my love of theater, I have also always feared it, due to stage fright, being image-conscious and socially- conscious, and the pressure to be perfect when performing, and I've always wanted to explore why these things frighten me so much. 

My main actress is also my best friend, Amanda Gilmore, we’ve been working together in theater for 10 years. It is not only a film showing my appreciation for the art, but my appreciation for our friendship and how theater has supported us both. It is a dream come true for us to work together on this film. 

I have recently found a love and appreciation for experimental filmmaking, and I desperately want to take on the challenge of this different form. Not only is it straying away from typical forms of filmmaking that I have learned to utilize in school, but it also pushes my skills of cinematography and editing, which I have strayed away from so far, and I want to take on the challenge for my senior project. I pride myself on being a strong director, with a strong vision, and it's all due to my history in theater that has given me a natural sense and care for directing, and I want to be able to utilize what I feel comfortable with, versus the challenges a new art form will bring on. With the help of a great team and a dedicated actor, I believe we can make this experimental film a powerful and meaningful project, and I can't wait to show it to the world.

6 Main Themes

Theme 1: “Stardom.” Referencing old Hollywood and Marilyn Monroe, as a mix between film and theater.

Theme 2: "Theia." This theme is an homage to Ancient Greek theatre, where theatre originated. 

Theme 3: "Veddette." Honoring showgirls, burlesque, and vaudeville.

Theme Four: "Ophelia." A tribute to Shakespeare.

Theme 5: "Limelight." Honoring theater lighting and stage design. 

Theme 6: "Visage." This theme encapsulates Commedia dell'arte, Puppetry, and Grand Guignol Theater. 

Our Fundraising Needs

What fundraising are we looking for?

Our film is looking for fundraising for: 

• Production Design
• Meals/Crafty
• Equipment Costs
• Festival Submissions 

What will your support go towards?

Your support will go towards taking care of our cast and crew on set, filling our big dreams of big, intense production designs, and other necessary costs that go into filmmaking. Each dollar helps us get closer to completing our film, and without your generious donations we wouldn't have this amazing opportunity. Thank you! 

Can you help in another way?

Absolutely! We will take any suggestions to help our project come true. If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions, please email [email protected] or [email protected]!

How can I look forward to this film?

We're planning on releasing an official Director's promotional video as our filming goes on, to really help shape our story. For now, please enjoy our Promotional Video- highlighting our focus being an Experiemental film!