Our Production Heads

  • Julia Bottarelli

    Writer, Director.

    “This is precisely the kind of story the world needs right now. Buried within it are strong, timely themes that reflect the realities we face today. The commune shows the power of conditioning through fear and how our upbringing shapes our beliefs—without exposure to the outside world, the mind can become a trap.

    This film reveals the painful truth that fear can overtake love, and that individualism is a choice, often complex and costly. I believe this is a story worth sharing because, while we’re all caught up in our thoughts, it’s time to step back, expand our thinking, and witness the power of control from an outsider’s perspective. Although fictional, the themes and emotions woven into this film are deeply rooted in reality. I hope audiences will not only relate to them but also reflect on how these forces shape their own lives.” - Bottarelli

  • Sophie Leggett

    Producer


    As a Producer, Sophie Leggett’s work primarily focuses on pre-production. Drawing on skills developed through the Film and Television departments, she secures filming permits, creates budgets for props, costumes, and set design, casts actors and crew members, and ensures that the entire team operates safely, responsibly, and efficiently. She prioritizes obtaining the necessary funds to bring the directors' and the director of photography's visions to life, collaborating closely with the crew to create a project that everyone can be proud of.

  • Evarista Irby

    Producer


    As a Producer, Evarista Irby fosters a collaborative spirit on every set, drawing on hands-on experience in assistant directing, 2nd AD work, BTS photography, and various other crew roles. With a background in short films and music videos, she cultivates environments where creativity, learning, and mentorship can thrive. She emphasizes building a sense of community on set—spaces where every crew member feels encouraged to contribute, grow, and explore new roles. Her goal is to produce films that not only tell compelling stories but also support and uplift the people who help bring them to life.

  • There are several ways to support our film and help bring this project to life. Donations made through our crowdfunding page (see link below) will directly support the production, with 100% of proceeds allocated to essential needs such as feeding our cast and crew. Supporters may also choose to become sponsors—whether as businesses contributing goods or services or as investors providing financial backing —in exchange for recognition on our social media and at any future events we are involved in.

  • Awake is currently in pre-production, preparing to film in less than 2 months. We’re awaiting the results of several grant proposals and scriptwriting competitions. We recently completed a successful crowdfunding campaign, raising nearly $4,000.
    The majority of department head positions have been filled, and each team is actively preparing and planning for production. We’re also seeking additional sponsors; several local businesses have already stepped up to contribute meals for the crew and assist with costumes and production design. We are moving forward with casting. So far, over 300 actors have auditioned through Backstage alone.
    Filming is scheduled for Friday, February 20th through Sunday, February 22nd, 2026, and Friday, February 27th through Sunday, March 1st, 2026.

  • September- November ‘25: Pre-production and planning 

    December ‘25: Locked cast and crew.

    January ‘26:  Finalizing and preparing to film.

    End of February ‘26: Filming.

    March - August ‘26: Post-Production.

    September 1st: Begin Festival run.

  • The ultimate goal of this film is to submit to the Sundance Film Festival. Since  Sundance is highly exclusive, we cannot promote the film on social media, upload it to YouTube, or use any other promotional platforms. This is why our funding must come from grants, competitions, and investors. We plan to submit to the Short Film category, which accepts shorts up to 50 minutes. 

    This film has the potential to grow into a feature, and we hope that a production company or investors will take notice and take a chance on it. For example, WhipLash originated as a 17-minute short film. It went on to premiere at Sundance and was featured at the 2014 Deauville American Film Festival in France, where it received both the Grand Prix and the Audience Award. From there, the short secured sufficient funding to develop the feature film, which went on to achieve both critical and commercial success.

    Today, companies like A24 are supporting new, young directors—such as the upcoming 20-year-old filmmaker behind The Backrooms. What draws younger audiences to theaters is the promise of something fresh. A great example is Saltburn. According to Cross Screen Media, Americans attend only about two movies in theaters per year on average, yet Saltburn sold an estimated 1.06 million tickets (Warner Bros. Entertainment Wiki). 

    Hollywood is craving originality, and our film has the potential to deliver something new and exciting.

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