The Valley Buzz - Short Film

Title: The Valley Buzz

Genre: Western, Comedy

Logline: In 1800s Arizona, a lone cowboy and his unique music box are stalked by a curious stranger.

Estimated Runtime: 12 - 14 minutes

Target Release Date: March 1st, 2025

Proposed Budget: $3,000

Filming Locations: Payson, AZ | Surprise, AZ

Why support The Valley Buzz ?

The Western film movement has always been an intriguing but outdated genre. About a year and a half ago, Taylor envisioned The Valley Buzz as a project that would break away from traditional Western norms. This vision led to a script that highlights diverse characters and explores music that has yet to be featured in the genre.

This offbeat comedy, set in the late 1800s, draws on the unique styles of Edgar Wright and Taika Waititi to create an atmospheric Western that revitalizes classic genre elements. We aim to spotlight underrepresented characters and emphasize the strength of female roles. In a genre often steeped in revenge and redemption, The Valley Buzz invites viewers to consider a more forgiving perspective. Our goal is to captivate both classic music enthusiasts and film lovers by honoring the style of old Hollywood while introducing contemporary storytelling.

Combining humor, intriguing characters, and modern themes, The Valley Buzz aims to present a new vision for the Western genre.

Meet the Team

Pre-Production

Taylor Hammersla

• Writer/Director/Producer

Alex Catedral

• Executive Producer

Emma Skoog

• Associate Producer

Sam Morton

• Associate Producer

Production

Joshua Bowen

• Director of Photography

Riley Swartzendruber

• Drone Operator

Malcolm Young

• Sound Mixer

Greg Elson

• Stunt Coordinator/Prop Master

Mckenzie King

• Animal Wrangler/Stuntwoman

Ricardo Ramirez

• Production Assistant

Paulo Jacobe

• Production Assistant

Kareem Jasper

• Animal Wrangler

Kent Capones

• BTS Videographer

Post Production

Taylor Hammersla

• Editor

Malcolm Young

• Sound Designer

Joshua Bowen

• Colorist

Nathan Choate

• Special Effects Artist

Meet the Cast

Xel-Ha Ojeda as Caroline

John Simon as Hero

Joseph Grilletta as Frank

Visit our website for updates in regards to cast and crew.

Where will the money go?

Even if we reach our funding goal, much of this film will rely on the generous support of many talented individuals. However, there are essential expenses that cannot be covered by favors alone. Your contributions will help us manage the costs of production, post-production, and distribution. You can find a detailed budget breakdown available for download here, with the majority of donations being directed towards:

• Wardrobe
• Art Direction
• Music
• Visual Effects
• Equipment Rental
• Festival Submission Costs

We deeply value your trust and support in bringing our film to life. That’s why we want to be completely transparent about where your contributions will go. Our downloadable budget breakdown shows how every dollar will help us produce this film.

Throughout this journey, we’ll share regular updates, behind-the-scenes moments, and insights into our creative process, so you can feel connected to every step we take. Be sure to follow us on social media to stay up to date on the latest news. We’re here for any questions or thoughts you have, and we genuinely want you to be part of this adventure with us. Together, we can create something truly meaningful!

Catedral Collective

We are proud to announce that our film has been sponsored by Catedral Collective, a production company local to the Phoenix area. They will be supplying a majority of the equipment for the shoot. The sponsored kit will save an estimated $5,000 in equipment rentals.

The Catedral Collective, founded by Alex Catedral, is a creative agency focused on storytelling through film, photography, and digital media. With a commitment to producing high-quality content, the collective collaborates with diverse artists and brands to amplify unique narratives. Alex’s passion for storytelling not only drives his business but also fuels his desire to support emerging filmmakers like Taylor.

At Catedral Collective, our mission is to bring humanity back to business. We're not just storytellers; we're architects of a movement that reimagines business communication through the lens of authenticity and profound human connection. Our mission is to illuminate the depth behind businesses, showcasing not only what they do but why they do it, and the journey that has shaped them.

For more about his vision and projects, visit Catedral Collective.

Timeline

Pre-Production Deadlines (July - November)

• Location Scouts (October 1st - 31st)
• Final Script (October 18th)
• Shotlist (October 25th)
• Begin Casting Calls (November 1st)

Production Schedule

• Temporary Shooting Days (December 5th - 8th)

Post Production Timeline

• Rough Cut (January 15, 2025)
• Fine Cut (January 31, 2025)
• Sound Design (February 15, 2025)
• Visual FX (February 15, 2025)
• Colour Correction (February 25, 2025)
• Final Reviews (February 28, 2025)

Marketing & Distribution

• Finalize Promotional Materials (January 31, 2025)
• Target Release Date (March 1, 2025)
• Exclusive Online Screening (March 1, 2025)
• Film Festival Circuit (March 2025 - March 2027)

Distribution Strategy

Our strategy includes submitting to several prominent festivals as part of our outreach plan. We’re raising funds to help with festival entry fees and promotional materials. By building excitement in the festival circuit, we hope to generate buzz and attract distributors who resonate with our diverse take on the Western genre.

Contribution Tiers & Benefits

- Behind the Scenes Photos & Videos $5

- Sticker Bundle (Pack of 3) $25

- Movie Poster (11x17) $50

- Exclusive Online Screening $75

- “The Making of: The Valley Buzz” BTS Video $100

- (VIP) IMDb Credit $150

Reward Details

*All donations of $5 or more will include the Behind the Scenes Photos and Videos.

*“The Making of: The Valley Buzz” video tier includes a ticket to the Exclusive Online Screening.

*The VIP Tier is the only donation level that includes rewards from lower tiers with one exception. VIP backers will have a choice between the sticker bundle or movie poster, but not both.

Donor Information

If you have made a donation, please kindly email me the following information:

- Your name

- Mailing Address (if merchandise is purchased)

- Donation Amount

This will help us ensure you receive the correct reward. Thank you for your contributions.

**Please note that ALL rewards will be mailed out after the films completion date (Release date TBD)**

FAQs

What happens if the funding goal is not met?

If we do not reach our funding goal, the desired timeline may be adjusted to accommodate the necessary funds. However, unlike other fundraising platforms, we will have access to all donations raised, ensuring that every contribution will be utilized toward the completion of this film. We are dedicated to making The Valley Buzz a reality and appreciate your support.

Will there be opportunities for backers to engage with the film after contributing?

Absolutely! All donors will receive exclusive behind-the-scenes access and updates. We also encourage supporters to follow us on social media for the latest news and developments.

What is your approach to diversity in casting?

Diversity is a core motivation for the creation of this film. We aim to represent underrepresented voices in our casting choices.

How can backers help promote the campaign?

We’d really appreciate your help in spreading the word! Share our project with your friends and family to help us reach more people. Don’t forget to stay connected with us on social media for the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content. Your support truly makes a difference!

Safety Statement

We want to assure our supporters and the community that no real firearms or ammunition will be present or used during the filming of our project. Our commitment to safety is our top priority, and we will only utilize prop weapons and simulated effects to create the intended atmosphere. We are dedicated to maintaining a safe and responsible environment for our cast and crew throughout the production.

Thank You

If you made it through this abundant information, I’m sincerely grateful. Every donation, big or small, will help bring this film to life, and any support is greatly appreciated. Your contribution truly makes a difference. Thank you!

Contact

Please contact us at [email protected] for more information.

www.HammerslaProductions.com

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