This film has deep-seated ties to deterministic and Adlerian philosophy, exploration of human depth, and the intrinsic puzzle of human existence. A journalist spends time on an isolated commune to observe the contrast between the worldly life she experiences and the ignorant bliss the commune has created for itself.

This film is in accordance with Western Carolina University's Film and Television Production Program in fulfillment of their senior thesis requirements.

WHO ARE WE?

Director/DP - Traveler Shaw

Traveler Shaw is an aspiring filmmaker born and raised in Western North Carolina, and a senior at Western Carolina University in the Film and Television Production program. In his past three years at school, he has been dedicated to sharpening his skills in all facets of filmmaking, finding a particular interest in camera language and lighting design. In his senior thesis film, GONZO, he aims to use the sum of his technical experience, along with that of his collaborators, to produce an entertaining and introspective short film that challenges established concepts of community, responsibility, and how to treat one another. As with many of Shaw’s other short films, he’s committed to using his upbringing in rural Appalachia to add a distinct realism to GONZO, while simultaneously creating a familiar and immersive world for the audience to dive into.

Director/DP - Tyler Martin

Tyler Martin is currently a senior at Western Carolina University. He has been a valued crew member on several student films and is excited to have the opportunity to work with Traveler again to tell the story of GONZO. Tyler hopes that this project will be something that can leave people changed, and believes that it’s entirely possible with the fantastic crew backing them up. He is excited to use his four years of knowledge to make this one of his best works, and can’t wait till you all get to see it.

Co-Producer - Bugs Wilbanks

Bugs is a junior at Western Carolina University who focuses on above-the-line and production work. She works tirelessly to ensure all aspects of the film are possible, confirming all locations, budgets, and finalized crew. She has worked as a 1st AD and sound mixer for the directors multiple times, and cannot wait to continue working with like-minded creatives. They have produced numerous films during their time at WCU and are eager to help bring Traveler, Tyler, and Mallory's vision to life.

Co-Producer - Teri Martin

Teri Martin is a WNC native and senior at Western Carolina University, graduating in December with two degrees in Psychology and Philosophy. In 2023, she graduated from Southwestern Community College with an Associate of Applied Science in Cosmetology and has been working professionally as a hair stylist as well as a hair, makeup, and special effects artist for local film productions. Teri has recently finished post-production for her directorial debut, Eight Lives, for which she also designed the costuming, set decoration, hair and makeup, wrote the script, and produced. Teri’s robust portfolio makes her a powerhouse in our art department as the HMUA, but also a critical player on our production team as our 2nd Assistant Director and Co-Producer.

Writer - Mallory Jennette

Mallory Jennette is a Senior at WCU. She intends for Gonzo to be both a culmination of all that she’s learned and its own interesting challenge. She is excited to collaborate with this team as both Writer and Production Designer, and hopes to create a final product that they can all be proud of.