To The Moon/Hasta La Luna
San Antonio, Texas | Film Short
Drama, Romance
To The Moon/Hasta La Luna is a story about never giving up on what you love most. In life, we will all face hardships and obstacles that impede our path. This film highlights the importance of facing adversity and always pursuing the things you love, no matter what stands in your way.
To The Moon/Hasta La Luna
San Antonio, Texas | Film Short
Drama, Romance
2 Campaigns | Texas, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $2,100 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
19 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
To The Moon/Hasta La Luna is a story about never giving up on what you love most. In life, we will all face hardships and obstacles that impede our path. This film highlights the importance of facing adversity and always pursuing the things you love, no matter what stands in your way.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
To The Moon/Hasta La Luna is for the reason we keep fighting to pursue the things we love. Life is gonna throw unforeseen, unfortunate, and sometimes unfair obstacles and walls that impede us from going where we want or doing what we want. We all have this incredible ability to face adversity head-on and triumph over whatever we may encounter because of our love for what we do. This isn't just a story about dance or love. It's a story about never quitting your dreams, looking within yourself to fight for the passions you have in your own life, and to never give up on yourself.
My name is Jonathan Cordaway, a 22-year-old actor/writer/director from San Antonio, Texas. Last year, I created my a film company, Recordaway Pictures. My goal is to create work that is both creative and thought-provoking through the camera lens.
To The Moon/Hasta La Luna is the second short film I have written. After taking writing courses at Texas State University, I have learned a lot and been able to incorporate that learning into the writing of this film. This is not a student film or a class assignment; it is its own entity that my team and I plan to create this year.
I have created a team to help produce this film, and we are all very excited about the premise and the message our story conveys! I've assigned the members to jobs that best fit their strengths so we can create the most visually compelling film possible. Our passions drive us in our everyday lives, and it is imperative that, no matter what, we never lose the spark that compels us to pursue them to the best of our ability.
To The Moon/Hasta La Luna centers around Natalia, a young dancer who has just recovered from a recent ankle injury during a dance performance. She recounts a memory from a night, months ago, that is very dear to her. It is the last day she gets to spend in person with her boyfriend, Jesse, a lost man searching for his own path in life. Jesse decides to join the military, and the following morning is when he leaves.
It is at Natalia's lowest point that Jesse gives her a gift that reminds her why she must never give up on her dreams and pursue them no matter what.
This is a very personal film for me, as I have firsthand experience in what our protagonist has gone through. In college, I was once in a production of Moon Over Buffalo by Ken Ludwig, a fast-paced, farcical stage play. During the rehearsal process, I had fractured my ankle and wasn't sure how severe it was or if I'd still be able to perform. Being a performer is what I've always wanted to do; acting is my passion, and I was heartbroken at the thought that I might not be able to perform in this remarkable production. My director at the time, Jim Mammarella, said he still wanted me in the show and that whatever steps we needed to take to keep me good to perform, we'd do.
After seeing the doctor, I let them know I was supposed to perform in a show in about 3-4 weeks. They all told me that if I wanted my ankle to heal properly, I should under no circumstances perform. I was devastated to hear my recovery window wasn't within the performance timeframe. I had a really long night after that, figuring out what I was gonna do. After a lot of thinking, I knew I wasn't gonna let this stop me from performing. I took all the necessary precautions, I wore the brace, the boot, elevated, iced, heated, and even did my rehearsals on crutches.
It then became our dress rehearsal week, and this was when I had to move at "show speed" as best I could. No more crutches and no more boots. I did the rehearsals with just my ankle brace under my costume, and every time I got offstage I would sit and take pressure off of my foot. I'd be lying if I said I didn't feel any pain while performing this show. Some parts were very painful; if I stepped wrong or changed direction too quickly, I'd feel a sharp pain banging against the back of my ankle. Although I was in pain, I knew I would be hurting more had I not tried to continue my work on this production.
The rewarding experience of performing for packed houses and having them laugh hysterically was one of the best in my acting career. This performance also led to my first acting award nomination in San Antonio, along with other performers at theaters in the San Antonio area. This was not only fulfilling for my career but also for myself. I pushed myself, I battled past something that could've stopped me from doing what I love. I proved a lot to myself; it wasn't easy, but if I had the chance to do it all over again, I wouldn't change a thing. It was because of my belief in myself and my support group that I was able to persevere and continue pursuing my passion, no matter what stood in my way.
That is why this film matters. This is for everyone out there who may be struggling with pursuing what they love. My story was acting; Natalia's is dance. What is yours? What is your passion? What are you willing to do for it? I believe that if everyone truly believes in something or is truly passionate about it, nothing should stop them.
Our goal is to create a captivating short film with a very powerful message. We plan to submit to festivals nationwide and will eventually post to our official YouTube channel. We want to share this inspiring message and allow our creative team and actors to work on their respective craft. We want to highlight the immense talent to the world, and can't wait to begin the process!
PLEDGE! PLEDGE! PLEDGE!
Each and every pledge will go a long way towards this project! With your help, we will be able to get this film off its feet, and create something truly special for audiences to see. Being an indie studio, fundraising is our toughest battle, but with the help of the community, we've found that nothing is impossible! Any and all funds will go directly into production. This includes but is not limited to Camera Rental, Lighting/Sound Equipment, Craft Services, Film Festival Submission Fees, and Marketing Materials. Please check out our wonderful incentives, and if you are able, it would mean the world to us to have your financial support!
SPREAD THE WORD!
The more this campaign gets out, the better our message reaches the public! If you are not financially able to contribute, that is perfectly ok! If you are able to spread to others, family, friends, and artists, it is a massive help in making this film come to light! Of course, we need money to fund the project, but building a great following will only help us get eyes on it!
FOLLOW OUR JOURNEY!
As our campaign grows, so does the impact it has in gaining momentum for this film! The most important part of this is gaining a strong community centered around getting this film to the world,
to share this impactful message and show others to never stop doing what they love!
Follow our campaign on Seed & Spark and stay updated on To The Moon/Hasta La Luna's progress! It's 100% free and it helps us earn products, services, and festival fee waivers courtesy of Seed&Spark! It takes a just a few seconds and helps us immensely. Follow @jonnycordaway , @recordawaypictures and @tothemoonshort on Instagram!
Thank you for any and all support, it is because of YOU we are able to make something beautiful!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Camera/Lens Rental
Costs $400
The camera and lens packages are needed for the look and style of the film. Along with giving the best picture quality possible!
Craft Services
Costs $200
This will keep the cast/crew fed throughout the production process. Everybody needs to eat!
Walkie Talkies
Costs $75
Keep fast and clean communication between department heads while on set.
Film Festival Submission Fees
Costs $300
This is a stepping stone to getting into film festivals across the country!
Lighting Equipment
Costs $200
Additional lighting gear to create our specific look.
Props/Wardrobe
Costs $100
Any additional props or wardrobe pieces that are needed for this shoot!
Sound Equipment
Costs $225
Capture professional audio to enhance our film!
Cast/Crew Pay
Costs $600
Payment for the hardworking workers to make this film come to life! Help us pay our lovely cast and crew!
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Check Out The To The Moon/Hasta La Luna Team!
Jonathan Cordaway
(Director/Writer)
Jonathan Cordaway is an actor/writer/director from San Antonio, TX. He currently attends Texas State University, studying for a Bachelor's of Fine Arts in Performance and Production. Outside of university, Jonathan pursues an acting career both onstage and on-camera. After graduation he plans to move to Austin, TX, to further his acting career primarily in TV/Film. Along with acting, Jonathan found a deep passion for screenwriting and direction, thus writing his second short film, To The Moon/Hasta La Luna. He hopes to continue to thrive in the industry, and is ecstatic to begin this journey for this film, and hopes you can support in any way possible!
Marlowe Gonzales
(Director of Photography)
Marlowe Gonzales is a filmmaker and visual artist from San Antonio, TX. She is currently attending the University of Texas at San Antonio, where she is completing her Bachelor’s degree in Fine Art. Working across film, photography, and design, Marlowe focuses on visual storytelling that explores identity, memory, and personal experience. As a cinematographer, she is drawn to creating emotionally driven visuals through intentional lighting, color, and composition. She has worked on multiple short films including Unseen, Vestige, and Provenance, where she developed a strong interest in shaping narrative through image.
Daniel Campos
(Editor/First AC)
Daniel Campos is a rising Colombian filmmaker based in San Antonio, Texas. Known for his versatility, he specializes in directing, writing, cinematography, and editing. His music videos have earned international recognition, with selections at prominent Texas film festivals, including the San Antonio Film Festival. After pursuing filmmaking at Northwest Vista College and continuing his studies at the University of Texas at San Antonio, Daniel has collaborated with a range of content creators and companies throughout the city. Alongside his commercial work, he continues to develop independent projects, including Bomb Threat and, more recently, Sinfluence.
Diezel Calvo
(Gaffer)
Diezel Calvo is a student at UTSA pursuing a career in film with the goal of becoming a Director of Photography. He is passionate about visual storytelling and is dedicated to developing his skills behind the camera, including lighting, composition, and camera movement to create compelling cinematic images. After graduating, Diezel plans to become an active part of Houston's film community, contributing to its growth and helping elevate the city's presence in the industry. He aims to be involved in projects that not only tell powerful stories but also strengthen and expand Houston's film culture into a major creative hub.
Lucy Perez
(Script Supervisor/Production Assistant)
Lucy Perez is an Actress/Artist from San Antonio, TX. She has an Associate of Arts from San Antonio College and will be attending Texas State University to pursue a Bachelor's of Fine Arts in Performance and Production. Lucy has dedicated many years to the San Antonio theatre community as an Actor and Technician. She is thrilled to start her film career with Recordaway Pictures, having worked with them on their first film “UNSEEN”. Lucy looks forward to learning more about film and production with this project of To The Moon/Hasta La Luna.
Kevin Engel
(Jesse)
Kevin Engel is a San Antonio based actor. He’s a recent grad from TXST’s world renowned acting program. During his time there he performed in a wide range of projects ranging from the epitome of camp, playing Brad in The Rocky Horror Show to Andréy in Anton Chekhov’s Three Sisters. Post grad he works as an acting coach for local high schools in the area and assists with directing. After taking a chance on grad school and being a Juilliard drama finalist, his dream is to secure an MFA in acting and work professionally in New York. The projects he feels most passionate about in the world of acting are the ones that contain rich characters in a grounded setting, applied with a layer of vulnerability that lets everyone who sees his work feel seen in their own way. He can’t wait to be in front of the camera working with this team to bring Jonathan’s story to life!
McKenna Moczygemba
(Production Assistant/Production Designer)
McKenna Moczygemba is a convergent media specialist and the creative force behind mckenergy.media. Based in Texas, she specializes in photography, videography, and digital storytelling, with a strong focus on capturing authentic moments and compelling visuals. With a background in multimedia journalism, McKenna brings a unique blend of creativity and technical skill to every project—from media day shoots and branded content to short films and live productions. Her work is rooted in connection, storytelling, and elevating her clients’ vision through intentional, high-quality media. Through mckenergy.media, she continues to expand her reach in the creative industry, collaborating with individuals, teams, and brands to produce impactful visual content.
Katie Bass
(Production Assistant)
Katie Bass is an emerging actor and creative based in Dallas, Texas. She’s currently a freshman at Southern Methodist University, where she’s working toward her BFA in Acting. Katie loves performing, especially onstage, and is continuing to grow her experience both in theater and on camera. Lately, she’s also been getting more interested in the production side of film, and is excited to learn more about the inner workings behind the scenes. In the future, Katie plans to pursue a career in acting, while also exploring work in production, and hopes to one day open her own children’s theater company.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
To The Moon/Hasta La Luna is for the reason we keep fighting to pursue the things we love. Life is gonna throw unforeseen, unfortunate, and sometimes unfair obstacles and walls that impede us from going where we want or doing what we want. We all have this incredible ability to face adversity head-on and triumph over whatever we may encounter because of our love for what we do. This isn't just a story about dance or love. It's a story about never quitting your dreams, looking within yourself to fight for the passions you have in your own life, and to never give up on yourself.
My name is Jonathan Cordaway, a 22-year-old actor/writer/director from San Antonio, Texas. Last year, I created my a film company, Recordaway Pictures. My goal is to create work that is both creative and thought-provoking through the camera lens.
To The Moon/Hasta La Luna is the second short film I have written. After taking writing courses at Texas State University, I have learned a lot and been able to incorporate that learning into the writing of this film. This is not a student film or a class assignment; it is its own entity that my team and I plan to create this year.
I have created a team to help produce this film, and we are all very excited about the premise and the message our story conveys! I've assigned the members to jobs that best fit their strengths so we can create the most visually compelling film possible. Our passions drive us in our everyday lives, and it is imperative that, no matter what, we never lose the spark that compels us to pursue them to the best of our ability.
To The Moon/Hasta La Luna centers around Natalia, a young dancer who has just recovered from a recent ankle injury during a dance performance. She recounts a memory from a night, months ago, that is very dear to her. It is the last day she gets to spend in person with her boyfriend, Jesse, a lost man searching for his own path in life. Jesse decides to join the military, and the following morning is when he leaves.
It is at Natalia's lowest point that Jesse gives her a gift that reminds her why she must never give up on her dreams and pursue them no matter what.
This is a very personal film for me, as I have firsthand experience in what our protagonist has gone through. In college, I was once in a production of Moon Over Buffalo by Ken Ludwig, a fast-paced, farcical stage play. During the rehearsal process, I had fractured my ankle and wasn't sure how severe it was or if I'd still be able to perform. Being a performer is what I've always wanted to do; acting is my passion, and I was heartbroken at the thought that I might not be able to perform in this remarkable production. My director at the time, Jim Mammarella, said he still wanted me in the show and that whatever steps we needed to take to keep me good to perform, we'd do.
After seeing the doctor, I let them know I was supposed to perform in a show in about 3-4 weeks. They all told me that if I wanted my ankle to heal properly, I should under no circumstances perform. I was devastated to hear my recovery window wasn't within the performance timeframe. I had a really long night after that, figuring out what I was gonna do. After a lot of thinking, I knew I wasn't gonna let this stop me from performing. I took all the necessary precautions, I wore the brace, the boot, elevated, iced, heated, and even did my rehearsals on crutches.
It then became our dress rehearsal week, and this was when I had to move at "show speed" as best I could. No more crutches and no more boots. I did the rehearsals with just my ankle brace under my costume, and every time I got offstage I would sit and take pressure off of my foot. I'd be lying if I said I didn't feel any pain while performing this show. Some parts were very painful; if I stepped wrong or changed direction too quickly, I'd feel a sharp pain banging against the back of my ankle. Although I was in pain, I knew I would be hurting more had I not tried to continue my work on this production.
The rewarding experience of performing for packed houses and having them laugh hysterically was one of the best in my acting career. This performance also led to my first acting award nomination in San Antonio, along with other performers at theaters in the San Antonio area. This was not only fulfilling for my career but also for myself. I pushed myself, I battled past something that could've stopped me from doing what I love. I proved a lot to myself; it wasn't easy, but if I had the chance to do it all over again, I wouldn't change a thing. It was because of my belief in myself and my support group that I was able to persevere and continue pursuing my passion, no matter what stood in my way.
That is why this film matters. This is for everyone out there who may be struggling with pursuing what they love. My story was acting; Natalia's is dance. What is yours? What is your passion? What are you willing to do for it? I believe that if everyone truly believes in something or is truly passionate about it, nothing should stop them.
Our goal is to create a captivating short film with a very powerful message. We plan to submit to festivals nationwide and will eventually post to our official YouTube channel. We want to share this inspiring message and allow our creative team and actors to work on their respective craft. We want to highlight the immense talent to the world, and can't wait to begin the process!
PLEDGE! PLEDGE! PLEDGE!
Each and every pledge will go a long way towards this project! With your help, we will be able to get this film off its feet, and create something truly special for audiences to see. Being an indie studio, fundraising is our toughest battle, but with the help of the community, we've found that nothing is impossible! Any and all funds will go directly into production. This includes but is not limited to Camera Rental, Lighting/Sound Equipment, Craft Services, Film Festival Submission Fees, and Marketing Materials. Please check out our wonderful incentives, and if you are able, it would mean the world to us to have your financial support!
SPREAD THE WORD!
The more this campaign gets out, the better our message reaches the public! If you are not financially able to contribute, that is perfectly ok! If you are able to spread to others, family, friends, and artists, it is a massive help in making this film come to light! Of course, we need money to fund the project, but building a great following will only help us get eyes on it!
FOLLOW OUR JOURNEY!
As our campaign grows, so does the impact it has in gaining momentum for this film! The most important part of this is gaining a strong community centered around getting this film to the world,
to share this impactful message and show others to never stop doing what they love!
Follow our campaign on Seed & Spark and stay updated on To The Moon/Hasta La Luna's progress! It's 100% free and it helps us earn products, services, and festival fee waivers courtesy of Seed&Spark! It takes a just a few seconds and helps us immensely. Follow @jonnycordaway , @recordawaypictures and @tothemoonshort on Instagram!
Thank you for any and all support, it is because of YOU we are able to make something beautiful!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Camera/Lens Rental
Costs $400
The camera and lens packages are needed for the look and style of the film. Along with giving the best picture quality possible!
Craft Services
Costs $200
This will keep the cast/crew fed throughout the production process. Everybody needs to eat!
Walkie Talkies
Costs $75
Keep fast and clean communication between department heads while on set.
Film Festival Submission Fees
Costs $300
This is a stepping stone to getting into film festivals across the country!
Lighting Equipment
Costs $200
Additional lighting gear to create our specific look.
Props/Wardrobe
Costs $100
Any additional props or wardrobe pieces that are needed for this shoot!
Sound Equipment
Costs $225
Capture professional audio to enhance our film!
Cast/Crew Pay
Costs $600
Payment for the hardworking workers to make this film come to life! Help us pay our lovely cast and crew!
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Check Out The To The Moon/Hasta La Luna Team!
Jonathan Cordaway
(Director/Writer)
Jonathan Cordaway is an actor/writer/director from San Antonio, TX. He currently attends Texas State University, studying for a Bachelor's of Fine Arts in Performance and Production. Outside of university, Jonathan pursues an acting career both onstage and on-camera. After graduation he plans to move to Austin, TX, to further his acting career primarily in TV/Film. Along with acting, Jonathan found a deep passion for screenwriting and direction, thus writing his second short film, To The Moon/Hasta La Luna. He hopes to continue to thrive in the industry, and is ecstatic to begin this journey for this film, and hopes you can support in any way possible!
Marlowe Gonzales
(Director of Photography)
Marlowe Gonzales is a filmmaker and visual artist from San Antonio, TX. She is currently attending the University of Texas at San Antonio, where she is completing her Bachelor’s degree in Fine Art. Working across film, photography, and design, Marlowe focuses on visual storytelling that explores identity, memory, and personal experience. As a cinematographer, she is drawn to creating emotionally driven visuals through intentional lighting, color, and composition. She has worked on multiple short films including Unseen, Vestige, and Provenance, where she developed a strong interest in shaping narrative through image.
Daniel Campos
(Editor/First AC)
Daniel Campos is a rising Colombian filmmaker based in San Antonio, Texas. Known for his versatility, he specializes in directing, writing, cinematography, and editing. His music videos have earned international recognition, with selections at prominent Texas film festivals, including the San Antonio Film Festival. After pursuing filmmaking at Northwest Vista College and continuing his studies at the University of Texas at San Antonio, Daniel has collaborated with a range of content creators and companies throughout the city. Alongside his commercial work, he continues to develop independent projects, including Bomb Threat and, more recently, Sinfluence.
Diezel Calvo
(Gaffer)
Diezel Calvo is a student at UTSA pursuing a career in film with the goal of becoming a Director of Photography. He is passionate about visual storytelling and is dedicated to developing his skills behind the camera, including lighting, composition, and camera movement to create compelling cinematic images. After graduating, Diezel plans to become an active part of Houston's film community, contributing to its growth and helping elevate the city's presence in the industry. He aims to be involved in projects that not only tell powerful stories but also strengthen and expand Houston's film culture into a major creative hub.
Lucy Perez
(Script Supervisor/Production Assistant)
Lucy Perez is an Actress/Artist from San Antonio, TX. She has an Associate of Arts from San Antonio College and will be attending Texas State University to pursue a Bachelor's of Fine Arts in Performance and Production. Lucy has dedicated many years to the San Antonio theatre community as an Actor and Technician. She is thrilled to start her film career with Recordaway Pictures, having worked with them on their first film “UNSEEN”. Lucy looks forward to learning more about film and production with this project of To The Moon/Hasta La Luna.
Kevin Engel
(Jesse)
Kevin Engel is a San Antonio based actor. He’s a recent grad from TXST’s world renowned acting program. During his time there he performed in a wide range of projects ranging from the epitome of camp, playing Brad in The Rocky Horror Show to Andréy in Anton Chekhov’s Three Sisters. Post grad he works as an acting coach for local high schools in the area and assists with directing. After taking a chance on grad school and being a Juilliard drama finalist, his dream is to secure an MFA in acting and work professionally in New York. The projects he feels most passionate about in the world of acting are the ones that contain rich characters in a grounded setting, applied with a layer of vulnerability that lets everyone who sees his work feel seen in their own way. He can’t wait to be in front of the camera working with this team to bring Jonathan’s story to life!
McKenna Moczygemba
(Production Assistant/Production Designer)
McKenna Moczygemba is a convergent media specialist and the creative force behind mckenergy.media. Based in Texas, she specializes in photography, videography, and digital storytelling, with a strong focus on capturing authentic moments and compelling visuals. With a background in multimedia journalism, McKenna brings a unique blend of creativity and technical skill to every project—from media day shoots and branded content to short films and live productions. Her work is rooted in connection, storytelling, and elevating her clients’ vision through intentional, high-quality media. Through mckenergy.media, she continues to expand her reach in the creative industry, collaborating with individuals, teams, and brands to produce impactful visual content.
Katie Bass
(Production Assistant)
Katie Bass is an emerging actor and creative based in Dallas, Texas. She’s currently a freshman at Southern Methodist University, where she’s working toward her BFA in Acting. Katie loves performing, especially onstage, and is continuing to grow her experience both in theater and on camera. Lately, she’s also been getting more interested in the production side of film, and is excited to learn more about the inner workings behind the scenes. In the future, Katie plans to pursue a career in acting, while also exploring work in production, and hopes to one day open her own children’s theater company.