The Strange Dark

New Providence, New Jersey | Film Feature

Sci-Fi, Thriller

Chris Messineo

1 Campaigns | New Jersey, United States

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This campaign raised $83,181 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.

175 supporters | followers

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What if you could see the future? Would anyone believe you, and if they did, would they try and stop you? Like the 80's SciFi that inspired it, The Strange Dark takes place in suburbia where Edgar must convince his family of the truth as they try and survive one twisted night.

About The Project

  • The Story
  • Wishlist
  • Updates
  • The Team
  • Community

Mission Statement

I believe in the power of independent movies. That original and unique stories are worth telling. As a filmmaking teacher, I've spent years helping others find and bring their voice to the screen. Now, it's my turn and I'm excited to share my story of "The Strange Dark" with you.

The Story

The Logline: Edgar believes he can see the future, but his wife thinks he’s mad, his daughter thinks he’s strange, and the agents from Double Star accounting will stop at nothing to get their data back.


The idea for this script first came to me many years ago. Here is what I wrote in my journal at that time. "What if a man came home from work and told his wife that his whole life was a lie, that they were in danger, and they needed to leave immediately. Would she believe him and would she go with him?"


Like most rough ideas, I didn't have any details. What was the truth, what was he running from, and who was running after him?


But, like most good ideas, I couldn't let this one go. It just sat in my brain and slowly the full story emerged. I spent a year writing and rewriting the script. It is the 13th feature I've written and, by far, my favorite.


I hate trailers and loglines that spoil the movie, so I won't tell you any more. I'll just leave you with this.


The Strange Dark is a fun and twisted tale told in seven parts during one evening filled with dark humor, violence, and even love.


Chris Messineo

Writer & Director


Pre-Production

We've been in pre-prodution on The Strange Dark for the past year - calling in favors and assembling a tremendous cast and crew who all believe in this story. Our team has been working hard on:


  • Budgets
  • Gear (Cameras, Lights, Dollies, etc.)
  • Shooting Schedules
  • Shot Lists
  • Production Design
  • Costumes
  • Makeup
  • Special Effects
  • and even Creating Storyboards (a few of which you can see below).



Production

We are ready to make this thing!


We're shooting The Strange Dark this October and we're filming entirely in our home state of New Jersey (where the film industry is exploding).


We have a professional cast and crew who are committed to this project (check out our Team Page).


We have the experience, the talent, and the relentless effort and dedication needed to make this dream a reality.


All we need now is you to join our team, and with your support, we will make The Strange Dark together!



Stretch Goals

If we are able to surpass our original goal, we will use any extra monies for:

  • Extra Rehearsal Time
  • Extra Shooting Days
  • Larger Crew
  • Second Camera Package
  • Drone Shot to Open the Film
  • Enhanced Visual Effects
  • Longer Behind-the-Scenes Documentary
  • Surprise 80's Pop Song at the End of the Film


Wishlist

Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.

Location

Costs $5,000

The Strange Dark takes place in a suburban home.

Cast

Costs $27,000

We have the best cast and they deserve to get paid.

Crew

Costs $27,000

The film will only look as good as the crew shooting it.

Craft Services

Costs $7,500

They say an army marches on its stomach. So do we.

Makeup and Wardrobe

Costs $2,500

We need to make our cast look good (or bad) depending on the situation. We might even need to break a nose or two.

Production Design and Props

Costs $5,000

Creating the look of the film and using iconic props can transform a film.

Cars

Costs $1,000

The script calls for a VW Beetle and an SUV with tinted wheels. We will need to rent or borrow either or both.

Cash Pledge

Costs $0

About This Team

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CREW:

Current Team

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