Tie Die - Production
Los Angeles, California | Film Feature
Horror, Comedy
AI is changing the world - maybe ending it. It's certainly taking our jobs. It was hard enough to suffer through an awful job with a brutal, narcissistic boss. But now it's even worse when the dress code is an AI wearable tracking your productivity and prompted to terminate you.
Tie Die - Production
Los Angeles, California | Film Feature
Horror, Comedy
2 Campaigns | California, United States
11 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
$1,005
Goal: $3,000 for production
AI is changing the world - maybe ending it. It's certainly taking our jobs. It was hard enough to suffer through an awful job with a brutal, narcissistic boss. But now it's even worse when the dress code is an AI wearable tracking your productivity and prompted to terminate you.
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
We are making this movie!
This idea has inspired many - our great CAST, our scrapy CREW, and numerous DISTRIBUTORS.
Respected Distributors who saw our proof of concept and read the script are very excited about this project because they see what is in the zeitgeist right now - People losing their jobs to AI.
And these distributors believe in our ability to make a great film about it.
The synopsis is simple ...

Our story is about Kyle, a new employee who can't afford to lose his job - just like so many of us.

Kyle notices his co-workers keep disappearing. He must solve this mystery, outwit his evil boss Rhee, and battle her deadly AI necktie army.

We had a Seed & Spark campaign in the fall that raised enough money to start us off.
You can visit that here - https://seedandspark.com/fund/tie-die
That first fundraising campaign helped us get a beautiful location...

an incredibly talented cast you'll recognize...

We gathered some of our amazing cast and did a table read that you can watch (partially... no spoilers, come on now.)
a wonderful crew of Hungry Seasoned Filmmakers and Ambitious Young Go-Getters....

an LLC, legal representation... We're legit!
a storage facility for props... an amazing Line Producer... budgeting, scheduling, storyboarding software...

we've had TEST SHOOTS for Lenses, Puppetry, FX gags and tricks...

and most importantly the confidence and momentum to dive into the real work.
We threw down the gauntlet and circled a date on the calendar. We start shooting July 23!
Holy Moly.

We aren't fully funded yet.
We are close. We have a small budget and we have six investors who have taken us more than halfway there.
(We have investment opportunities available...)

We can and will start.
But help would be greatly appreciated.

And, of course any FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS would be enormously helpful.
Please check out some of our fun incentives.

Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Office Furniture
Costs $500
We have a beautiful, but somewhat empty modern office suite that we need to fill with alluring office furniture. Chairs, Tables, Desks.
File Cabinets
Costs $1
We have a file cabinet scene. We need to fill a room with file cabinets. We need 6 to 10 empty file cabinets. Old file cabinets welcome!
Office Supply Closet Racks and Office Supplies
Costs $500
We have a few scenes in the office supply closet we must build up. Any old racks and excess supplies would be so helpful!
Retail Clothing Racks
Costs $500
There is a room we call Tie Heaven where all the AI Tie live. We need to fill that room with racks.... and with ties!
Special Effects Makeup
Costs $749
There will be lots of blood and gore in this Body Horror Comedy. So we would love any donations of SPX blood and wound transfers.
Special Effects Dummies
Costs $749
We don't want to accidently slaughter our real actors. So we're going to buy some fake ones.
Computer Monitors
Costs $1
We need to dress the office with computers. If you know a business that upgraded and now has disposable monitors, we want them!
About This Team
I can barely believe that these incredibly talented (and kinda well known) people are excited to be in our movie!
CAST
Adam Tsekhman (Kyle) - Adam is best known for his role as Gary Green on the television series Legends of Tomorrow. He played a notable role in the Russian TV series *Zona*, which earned him a nomination for Best Lead Actor at the Monte-Carlo Television Festival (but he lost to that promising up and comer Kiefer Sutherland for 24.) His versatility and comedic timing that blends action and humor will be perfect for TIE DIE. He's one of the funniest people we know!
Naomi Grossman (Rhee) - Naomi was a 2018 Primetime Emmy nominee. Best known as the first crossover character, the fan-favorite "Pepper" on FX's American Horror Story: Asylum & Freak Show, Naomi also appeared as a new character, the Satanist "Samantha Crowe" in the eighth season, Apocalypse. Naomi made #5 of IMDb's "Top 10 Breakout Stars" after her STARmeter skyrocketed to #1, making her the most searched in its entire 8 million person database.
Aubrey Reynolds (Annie) - Aubrey is a dynamic actress known for her many versatile performances across television, independent cinema, and network dramas. Walk into any film market at AFM or Cannes, you will see movie posters with Aubrey on them everywhere - from suspenseful thrillers (Escape: Puzzle of Fear, Falling for a Killer, and Trapped in the Rocky Mountains) to feel-good holiday and romance films (Christmas Tree Lane, Hot Chocolate Holiday, and Santa, Maybe). And soon... TIE DIE!
Brian Lally (Lonnie) - Brian is an actor, comedian, director, and acting teacher whose career spans film, television, and voice-over work. Brian has built a diverse resume with appearances in major blockbusters, critically acclaimed dramas, and independent features. Some of his notable film credits include: L.A. Confidential, Funny People, and Hesher alongside Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Natalie Portman. He also collaborated on multiple projects directed by James Franco, including: As I Lay Dying, Child of God, and The Ape.
Jim Nieb (Harold) - Jim is an actor, comedian, acting coach, and variety performer whose eclectic career spans over three decades in film, television, and live entertainment. Jim gained national recognition for his spot-on impersonation of U.S. President George W. Bush, which landed him as a semi-finalist on ABC’s reality competition The Next Best Thing. Soon Jim was making recurring comedic appearances on Jimmy Kimmel Live! His films include Clint Eastwood's Changling and JJ Abram's Star Trek.
Anastasia Elfman (Isabelle) - Anastasia is a multi-talented actress, director, dancer, choreographer, and burlesque artist known for her vibrant presence in independent cinema, particularly within the horror and comedy genres. Some of her notable film credits include:Bloody Bridget, Aliens, Clowns & Geeks, Stark Raving Actress, The Once and Future Smash, and Fat Fleshy Fingers. She is also a journalist for the popular horror website, Dread Central.
Mouzam Makkar (Leylei) - Mouzam is an actress, writer, and producer whose career is defined by her dynamic presence across network television, gripping dramas, and beloved comedies. Mouzam captivated audiences with her recurring role as Alexandria "Alex" St. John on The Vampire Diaries. Mouzam has played impactful roles in showsall over the television dial, including: The Exorcist (Fox), Champions (NBC), The Fix (ABC), Naomi (The CW), and Law & Order: SVU (come on.. you can find that on your own)
Susan Louise O'Connor (Marsha) - Susan is an award-winning actress and writer celebrated for her scene-stealing theatrical performances, sharp comedic timing, and versatile screen presence. Perhaps best known for her spectacular Broadway debut in the 2009 revival of Noël Coward's Blithe Spirit, she starred as the frantic maid Edith alongside theater legends Angela Lansbury, Rupert Everett, Christine Ebersole, and Jayne Atkinson. Her performance earned her the Theatre World Award and the Dorothy Loudon Starbaby Award, along with a nomination for an Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding Featured Actress in a Play.
Sean Michael Boozer (Paul) - Sean Michael is a dynamic actor, writer, director, and improviser whose career spans acclaimed television dramas, network comedies, and the Los Angeles live comedy scene. On-screen, Boozer has showcased his range between tense, dramatic procedurals and light-hearted comedies in: Hulu’s The Dropout and Netflix’s The Politician, Shondaland’s Station 19, TV Land’s Teachers, and Jimmy Kimmel Live!
Victoria Ippolito (Lucy) - Victoria is a talented actress, director, and producer who has built a vibrant career in independent film, television, and live theatrical productions. Victoria's versatility spans comedic television and dramatic indie features: Real Acting (2019), The Heat of the Beat, and the 2023 Easterseals Disability Film Challenge entry Open & Shut, Sweet Caroline, Bucky, and the virtual live thriller Now, Now, Now...
CREW
Chris Valenti and Nick Alverson (Writers / Directors / Producers) have been working on TIe Die for four years. They currently have three other co-writing projects in development with attached producers. SPF 50, a romantic comedy about love after mourning, is with a producer in Sydney. Small Flags, a family comedy about a six year old girls flag football team is with a producer in Los Angeles. And The Last Horror Movie 2 a horror about a serial killer filmaker is with a producer in London.
Ivana Kingston (Producer) has established herself as an indispensable force in the North American film and television industry as a highly sought-after producer and line producer. Her producing credits include the features Death Grip, Sydney vs. Sean, Kitty Mammas, Occurrence at Mills Creek, and many short films including God Hunter, Patty's Last Resort, What a Blessing, Skin to Skin, Broken Art, and Needles in Metropolis.
Jake Macpherson (Director of Photography) is an award-winning Director of Photography, cinematographer, and film director. Jake has a dynamic visual style that spans narrative cinema, feature documentaries, and high-profile music videos. His films include Terror Firma - a feature horror film he also wrote and directed, The Film Gate, West is Gone, and Immediate Family. Music videos include Megadeth – "Post American World", Halestorm – "Uncomfortable", and Skillet – "Legendary". Jake was recognized with the prestigious Panavision Best Cinematography Award at the Rehoboth Beach Independent Film Festival for his outstanding work on the short film The First.
Jim Carretta (Editor) is an accomplished film editor with nearly two decades of experience shaping the pacing, narrative, and comedic timing of major theatrical features. Jim has built a robust resume of massive studio blockbusters and critically acclaimed independent festival darlings. His standout recent credits include First Time Female Director for Chelsea Peretti's hilarious directorial debut and A Thousand and One which won the prestigious Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival. Jim has also worked on Deadpool 2, Pitch Perfect 3, Hurry Up Tomorrow, The Lost City, A Futile and Stupid Gesture, and Freaks of Nature.
Jay Zabriskie (First AD) is an accomplished Director, First Assistant Director, Stage Manager, producer, and film instructor whose decades-spanning career includes work on iconic sitcoms, hit television dramas, and independent feature films. Jay contributed to beloved comedies such as A Different World and Martin. He served on the directing teams for shows such as Grey's Anatomy, Monk, and The Shield; and films including Sucka Free City,The Brittany Murphy Story, Mysteria, Altergeist, and Sightings.
Tim C. Szabics (VFX Supervisor) is an inventive Visual Effects Supervisor, motion graphics designer, director, and multi-disciplinary artist fiercely dedicated to wild visuals, practical effects, and in-camera tricks. Tim is an accomplished storyteller and director in his own right, crafting award-winning short films that explore complex human themes through a sci-fi lens such as Remember the Sun.
Simon Sorin (VFX & Colorist) is a talented filmmaker, colorist, visual effects artist, and editor known for his meticulous eye and collaborative approach to post-production. With a distinct ability to deconstruct visual references and build striking, emotionally resonant looks, Sorin has become an essential creative partner for Tie Die. His previous films include Haymarket: The Bomb, the Anarchists, the Labor Struggle, and his own Camp of the Living Dead.
Santino Ferrese (Art Director) is an award-winning special effects makeup artist, creature designer, and filmmaker known for his striking practical effects and deep commitment to the craft of physical world-building. With an expansive resume that stretches from massive Marvel blockbusters to celebrated independent cinema, Ferrese has established himself as a dynamic visionary in the modern special effects landscape.
Claire Wunschel (Production Designer) is an emerging filmmaker, director, actress, and dedicated arts educator. With a lifelong foundation in theatrical performance and a newly minted degree in directing, Claire blends her deep understanding of performance with a sharp visual eye, establishing herself as a multi-talented force in independent cinema. Projects include: Global Warming, What's Wrong with Sawyer Smith?, and Inside.
Molly Joy (Key Makeup Artist) is a skilled and innovative Key Makeup and Special Effects (SFX) artist known for her ability to seamlessly blend high-fashion aesthetics with striking, narrative-driven character transformations. With a keen eye for beauty makeup, complex character design, and prosthetic application. Molly has established herself as a versatile creative force in the independent film world. Molly’s ability to execute bold, practical makeup transformations and striking prosthetics is essential to capturing the Tie Die's wild visual style.
Hayley Jarrett (Sound Recordist) is a dedicated production sound recordist, sound supervisor, and mixer with a sharp ear for detail and a deep technical understanding of on-set audio. Hayley is quickly establishing herself as a reliable and essential collaborator within the independent filmmaking community. On set, Jarrett is known for her meticulous attention to capturing clean, immersive audio. Hayley stepped into a leadership role as the Sound Supervisor for the film, Trama Salad, directed by Chloe Pan-Kita.
Ryan Jachetta (Post Production Sound Mixer) is a versatile filmmaker, production sound mixer, music producer, and educator. Known for his comprehensive, "one-stop-shop" approach to filmmaking, Ryan brings a deep technical understanding of audio and a sharp cinematic eye to every project, moving seamlessly from pre-production planning to the final post-production sound mix. Beyond his active work on set and in the sound bay, Ryan serves as a Professor at Biola University, bringing his real-world experience in sound design, mixing, and directing back to the classroom to guide up-and-coming filmmakers.
Brian Fegan (Script Supervisor) is a filmmaker, script supervisor, and comedian known for his sharp comedic timing and his versatility behind the camera. Blending a strong technical understanding of narrative continuity with an eccentric, DIY approach to independent comedy, Fegan has built a dynamic resume spanning feature films, mockumentaries, and digital shorts.
Justin Marroquin (Gaffer) is a talented cinematographer, filmmaker, and photographer who brings a highly cinematic and technically proficient eye to both narrative indie films and live broadcast events. Justin served as the DP on a variety of independent short films, including Model Citizen Corps, Peeler, HEY, YOU!, and Ocellus. Justin has worked as a Gaffer on projects like My Dinner with Ed and Pétalos, and as a camera assistant on Deserted and The Wizard No More.
Steven Lopez (Key Grip) is an emerging filmmaker and director who is quickly establishing himself as a collaborative and driven creative force in the independent film scene. Steve honed his craft at The Los Angeles Film School, where he notably directed the 2024 indie project Clean Up Crew. His time at LAFS was defined by rigorous practical experience, allowing him to master the complexities of managing a set, executing a visual vision, and navigating the fast-paced challenges of indie production.
Levon Eskidjian (1st AC) is a talented and fiercely dedicated First Assistant Camera and aspiring cinematographer with a lifelong passion for the cinematic arts. Levon combines his deep technical knowledge of the camera department with an unyielding love for visual storytelling, making him an invaluable asset on independent film sets. Through his hands-on education at the Los Angeles Film , Levon immersed himself in the technical intricacies of camera operation, lens mechanics, and focus pulling.
Adam "Gabor" Toth (Swing Grip, Assistant Editor) is a dedicated and versatile filmmaker, producer, and editor with extensive experience spanning camera operation, post-production, and on-set logistics. Gabor has established himself as a dynamic problem solver who thrives on capturing compelling action and stunning visual moments. He worked several high-profile music videos including country artist Kaitlin Butts' "Wild Juanita's Cactus Juice" and "Other Girls (Ain't Havin' Any Fun)," as well as pop artist Cloe Wilder's "Take It In."
Kailah Dabee (Production Team) is an emerging, Los Angeles-based filmmaker who brings a fresh, dynamic voice to the independent storytelling landscape. Known for her dedication to the craft and her deeply collaborative spirit, Dabee is quickly building a reputation as a disciplined producer with a sharp eye for character-driven narratives. A recent graduate from the UCLA Professional Producing Program, she is actively carving out her space as a forward-thinking storyteller to watch in the indie film landscape.
Erin Roche (Production Team) is an emerging filmmaker currently honing her craft as a student at the prestigious Los Angeles Film School. Erin is developing her creative voice and technical skills within a dynamic, collaborative network of up-and-coming artists. She recently wrote and directed her first film, What Remains.
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
We are making this movie!
This idea has inspired many - our great CAST, our scrapy CREW, and numerous DISTRIBUTORS.
Respected Distributors who saw our proof of concept and read the script are very excited about this project because they see what is in the zeitgeist right now - People losing their jobs to AI.
And these distributors believe in our ability to make a great film about it.
The synopsis is simple ...

Our story is about Kyle, a new employee who can't afford to lose his job - just like so many of us.

Kyle notices his co-workers keep disappearing. He must solve this mystery, outwit his evil boss Rhee, and battle her deadly AI necktie army.

We had a Seed & Spark campaign in the fall that raised enough money to start us off.
You can visit that here - https://seedandspark.com/fund/tie-die
That first fundraising campaign helped us get a beautiful location...

an incredibly talented cast you'll recognize...

We gathered some of our amazing cast and did a table read that you can watch (partially... no spoilers, come on now.)
a wonderful crew of Hungry Seasoned Filmmakers and Ambitious Young Go-Getters....

an LLC, legal representation... We're legit!
a storage facility for props... an amazing Line Producer... budgeting, scheduling, storyboarding software...

we've had TEST SHOOTS for Lenses, Puppetry, FX gags and tricks...

and most importantly the confidence and momentum to dive into the real work.
We threw down the gauntlet and circled a date on the calendar. We start shooting July 23!
Holy Moly.

We aren't fully funded yet.
We are close. We have a small budget and we have six investors who have taken us more than halfway there.
(We have investment opportunities available...)

We can and will start.
But help would be greatly appreciated.

And, of course any FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS would be enormously helpful.
Please check out some of our fun incentives.

Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Office Furniture
Costs $500
We have a beautiful, but somewhat empty modern office suite that we need to fill with alluring office furniture. Chairs, Tables, Desks.
File Cabinets
Costs $1
We have a file cabinet scene. We need to fill a room with file cabinets. We need 6 to 10 empty file cabinets. Old file cabinets welcome!
Office Supply Closet Racks and Office Supplies
Costs $500
We have a few scenes in the office supply closet we must build up. Any old racks and excess supplies would be so helpful!
Retail Clothing Racks
Costs $500
There is a room we call Tie Heaven where all the AI Tie live. We need to fill that room with racks.... and with ties!
Special Effects Makeup
Costs $749
There will be lots of blood and gore in this Body Horror Comedy. So we would love any donations of SPX blood and wound transfers.
Special Effects Dummies
Costs $749
We don't want to accidently slaughter our real actors. So we're going to buy some fake ones.
Computer Monitors
Costs $1
We need to dress the office with computers. If you know a business that upgraded and now has disposable monitors, we want them!
About This Team
I can barely believe that these incredibly talented (and kinda well known) people are excited to be in our movie!
CAST
Adam Tsekhman (Kyle) - Adam is best known for his role as Gary Green on the television series Legends of Tomorrow. He played a notable role in the Russian TV series *Zona*, which earned him a nomination for Best Lead Actor at the Monte-Carlo Television Festival (but he lost to that promising up and comer Kiefer Sutherland for 24.) His versatility and comedic timing that blends action and humor will be perfect for TIE DIE. He's one of the funniest people we know!
Naomi Grossman (Rhee) - Naomi was a 2018 Primetime Emmy nominee. Best known as the first crossover character, the fan-favorite "Pepper" on FX's American Horror Story: Asylum & Freak Show, Naomi also appeared as a new character, the Satanist "Samantha Crowe" in the eighth season, Apocalypse. Naomi made #5 of IMDb's "Top 10 Breakout Stars" after her STARmeter skyrocketed to #1, making her the most searched in its entire 8 million person database.
Aubrey Reynolds (Annie) - Aubrey is a dynamic actress known for her many versatile performances across television, independent cinema, and network dramas. Walk into any film market at AFM or Cannes, you will see movie posters with Aubrey on them everywhere - from suspenseful thrillers (Escape: Puzzle of Fear, Falling for a Killer, and Trapped in the Rocky Mountains) to feel-good holiday and romance films (Christmas Tree Lane, Hot Chocolate Holiday, and Santa, Maybe). And soon... TIE DIE!
Brian Lally (Lonnie) - Brian is an actor, comedian, director, and acting teacher whose career spans film, television, and voice-over work. Brian has built a diverse resume with appearances in major blockbusters, critically acclaimed dramas, and independent features. Some of his notable film credits include: L.A. Confidential, Funny People, and Hesher alongside Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Natalie Portman. He also collaborated on multiple projects directed by James Franco, including: As I Lay Dying, Child of God, and The Ape.
Jim Nieb (Harold) - Jim is an actor, comedian, acting coach, and variety performer whose eclectic career spans over three decades in film, television, and live entertainment. Jim gained national recognition for his spot-on impersonation of U.S. President George W. Bush, which landed him as a semi-finalist on ABC’s reality competition The Next Best Thing. Soon Jim was making recurring comedic appearances on Jimmy Kimmel Live! His films include Clint Eastwood's Changling and JJ Abram's Star Trek.
Anastasia Elfman (Isabelle) - Anastasia is a multi-talented actress, director, dancer, choreographer, and burlesque artist known for her vibrant presence in independent cinema, particularly within the horror and comedy genres. Some of her notable film credits include:Bloody Bridget, Aliens, Clowns & Geeks, Stark Raving Actress, The Once and Future Smash, and Fat Fleshy Fingers. She is also a journalist for the popular horror website, Dread Central.
Mouzam Makkar (Leylei) - Mouzam is an actress, writer, and producer whose career is defined by her dynamic presence across network television, gripping dramas, and beloved comedies. Mouzam captivated audiences with her recurring role as Alexandria "Alex" St. John on The Vampire Diaries. Mouzam has played impactful roles in showsall over the television dial, including: The Exorcist (Fox), Champions (NBC), The Fix (ABC), Naomi (The CW), and Law & Order: SVU (come on.. you can find that on your own)
Susan Louise O'Connor (Marsha) - Susan is an award-winning actress and writer celebrated for her scene-stealing theatrical performances, sharp comedic timing, and versatile screen presence. Perhaps best known for her spectacular Broadway debut in the 2009 revival of Noël Coward's Blithe Spirit, she starred as the frantic maid Edith alongside theater legends Angela Lansbury, Rupert Everett, Christine Ebersole, and Jayne Atkinson. Her performance earned her the Theatre World Award and the Dorothy Loudon Starbaby Award, along with a nomination for an Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding Featured Actress in a Play.
Sean Michael Boozer (Paul) - Sean Michael is a dynamic actor, writer, director, and improviser whose career spans acclaimed television dramas, network comedies, and the Los Angeles live comedy scene. On-screen, Boozer has showcased his range between tense, dramatic procedurals and light-hearted comedies in: Hulu’s The Dropout and Netflix’s The Politician, Shondaland’s Station 19, TV Land’s Teachers, and Jimmy Kimmel Live!
Victoria Ippolito (Lucy) - Victoria is a talented actress, director, and producer who has built a vibrant career in independent film, television, and live theatrical productions. Victoria's versatility spans comedic television and dramatic indie features: Real Acting (2019), The Heat of the Beat, and the 2023 Easterseals Disability Film Challenge entry Open & Shut, Sweet Caroline, Bucky, and the virtual live thriller Now, Now, Now...
CREW
Chris Valenti and Nick Alverson (Writers / Directors / Producers) have been working on TIe Die for four years. They currently have three other co-writing projects in development with attached producers. SPF 50, a romantic comedy about love after mourning, is with a producer in Sydney. Small Flags, a family comedy about a six year old girls flag football team is with a producer in Los Angeles. And The Last Horror Movie 2 a horror about a serial killer filmaker is with a producer in London.
Ivana Kingston (Producer) has established herself as an indispensable force in the North American film and television industry as a highly sought-after producer and line producer. Her producing credits include the features Death Grip, Sydney vs. Sean, Kitty Mammas, Occurrence at Mills Creek, and many short films including God Hunter, Patty's Last Resort, What a Blessing, Skin to Skin, Broken Art, and Needles in Metropolis.
Jake Macpherson (Director of Photography) is an award-winning Director of Photography, cinematographer, and film director. Jake has a dynamic visual style that spans narrative cinema, feature documentaries, and high-profile music videos. His films include Terror Firma - a feature horror film he also wrote and directed, The Film Gate, West is Gone, and Immediate Family. Music videos include Megadeth – "Post American World", Halestorm – "Uncomfortable", and Skillet – "Legendary". Jake was recognized with the prestigious Panavision Best Cinematography Award at the Rehoboth Beach Independent Film Festival for his outstanding work on the short film The First.
Jim Carretta (Editor) is an accomplished film editor with nearly two decades of experience shaping the pacing, narrative, and comedic timing of major theatrical features. Jim has built a robust resume of massive studio blockbusters and critically acclaimed independent festival darlings. His standout recent credits include First Time Female Director for Chelsea Peretti's hilarious directorial debut and A Thousand and One which won the prestigious Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival. Jim has also worked on Deadpool 2, Pitch Perfect 3, Hurry Up Tomorrow, The Lost City, A Futile and Stupid Gesture, and Freaks of Nature.
Jay Zabriskie (First AD) is an accomplished Director, First Assistant Director, Stage Manager, producer, and film instructor whose decades-spanning career includes work on iconic sitcoms, hit television dramas, and independent feature films. Jay contributed to beloved comedies such as A Different World and Martin. He served on the directing teams for shows such as Grey's Anatomy, Monk, and The Shield; and films including Sucka Free City,The Brittany Murphy Story, Mysteria, Altergeist, and Sightings.
Tim C. Szabics (VFX Supervisor) is an inventive Visual Effects Supervisor, motion graphics designer, director, and multi-disciplinary artist fiercely dedicated to wild visuals, practical effects, and in-camera tricks. Tim is an accomplished storyteller and director in his own right, crafting award-winning short films that explore complex human themes through a sci-fi lens such as Remember the Sun.
Simon Sorin (VFX & Colorist) is a talented filmmaker, colorist, visual effects artist, and editor known for his meticulous eye and collaborative approach to post-production. With a distinct ability to deconstruct visual references and build striking, emotionally resonant looks, Sorin has become an essential creative partner for Tie Die. His previous films include Haymarket: The Bomb, the Anarchists, the Labor Struggle, and his own Camp of the Living Dead.
Santino Ferrese (Art Director) is an award-winning special effects makeup artist, creature designer, and filmmaker known for his striking practical effects and deep commitment to the craft of physical world-building. With an expansive resume that stretches from massive Marvel blockbusters to celebrated independent cinema, Ferrese has established himself as a dynamic visionary in the modern special effects landscape.
Claire Wunschel (Production Designer) is an emerging filmmaker, director, actress, and dedicated arts educator. With a lifelong foundation in theatrical performance and a newly minted degree in directing, Claire blends her deep understanding of performance with a sharp visual eye, establishing herself as a multi-talented force in independent cinema. Projects include: Global Warming, What's Wrong with Sawyer Smith?, and Inside.
Molly Joy (Key Makeup Artist) is a skilled and innovative Key Makeup and Special Effects (SFX) artist known for her ability to seamlessly blend high-fashion aesthetics with striking, narrative-driven character transformations. With a keen eye for beauty makeup, complex character design, and prosthetic application. Molly has established herself as a versatile creative force in the independent film world. Molly’s ability to execute bold, practical makeup transformations and striking prosthetics is essential to capturing the Tie Die's wild visual style.
Hayley Jarrett (Sound Recordist) is a dedicated production sound recordist, sound supervisor, and mixer with a sharp ear for detail and a deep technical understanding of on-set audio. Hayley is quickly establishing herself as a reliable and essential collaborator within the independent filmmaking community. On set, Jarrett is known for her meticulous attention to capturing clean, immersive audio. Hayley stepped into a leadership role as the Sound Supervisor for the film, Trama Salad, directed by Chloe Pan-Kita.
Ryan Jachetta (Post Production Sound Mixer) is a versatile filmmaker, production sound mixer, music producer, and educator. Known for his comprehensive, "one-stop-shop" approach to filmmaking, Ryan brings a deep technical understanding of audio and a sharp cinematic eye to every project, moving seamlessly from pre-production planning to the final post-production sound mix. Beyond his active work on set and in the sound bay, Ryan serves as a Professor at Biola University, bringing his real-world experience in sound design, mixing, and directing back to the classroom to guide up-and-coming filmmakers.
Brian Fegan (Script Supervisor) is a filmmaker, script supervisor, and comedian known for his sharp comedic timing and his versatility behind the camera. Blending a strong technical understanding of narrative continuity with an eccentric, DIY approach to independent comedy, Fegan has built a dynamic resume spanning feature films, mockumentaries, and digital shorts.
Justin Marroquin (Gaffer) is a talented cinematographer, filmmaker, and photographer who brings a highly cinematic and technically proficient eye to both narrative indie films and live broadcast events. Justin served as the DP on a variety of independent short films, including Model Citizen Corps, Peeler, HEY, YOU!, and Ocellus. Justin has worked as a Gaffer on projects like My Dinner with Ed and Pétalos, and as a camera assistant on Deserted and The Wizard No More.
Steven Lopez (Key Grip) is an emerging filmmaker and director who is quickly establishing himself as a collaborative and driven creative force in the independent film scene. Steve honed his craft at The Los Angeles Film School, where he notably directed the 2024 indie project Clean Up Crew. His time at LAFS was defined by rigorous practical experience, allowing him to master the complexities of managing a set, executing a visual vision, and navigating the fast-paced challenges of indie production.
Levon Eskidjian (1st AC) is a talented and fiercely dedicated First Assistant Camera and aspiring cinematographer with a lifelong passion for the cinematic arts. Levon combines his deep technical knowledge of the camera department with an unyielding love for visual storytelling, making him an invaluable asset on independent film sets. Through his hands-on education at the Los Angeles Film , Levon immersed himself in the technical intricacies of camera operation, lens mechanics, and focus pulling.
Adam "Gabor" Toth (Swing Grip, Assistant Editor) is a dedicated and versatile filmmaker, producer, and editor with extensive experience spanning camera operation, post-production, and on-set logistics. Gabor has established himself as a dynamic problem solver who thrives on capturing compelling action and stunning visual moments. He worked several high-profile music videos including country artist Kaitlin Butts' "Wild Juanita's Cactus Juice" and "Other Girls (Ain't Havin' Any Fun)," as well as pop artist Cloe Wilder's "Take It In."
Kailah Dabee (Production Team) is an emerging, Los Angeles-based filmmaker who brings a fresh, dynamic voice to the independent storytelling landscape. Known for her dedication to the craft and her deeply collaborative spirit, Dabee is quickly building a reputation as a disciplined producer with a sharp eye for character-driven narratives. A recent graduate from the UCLA Professional Producing Program, she is actively carving out her space as a forward-thinking storyteller to watch in the indie film landscape.
Erin Roche (Production Team) is an emerging filmmaker currently honing her craft as a student at the prestigious Los Angeles Film School. Erin is developing her creative voice and technical skills within a dynamic, collaborative network of up-and-coming artists. She recently wrote and directed her first film, What Remains.