Float and Fly Short Film

FLOAT AND FLY is a lighthearted, family-friendly aviation short film to be shot in Gig Harbor Washington.

Through the generosity of the Gig Harbor Arts Commission and a 2025 Creative Endeavor Arts Grant, the seeding money of this project has given screenwriter siblings, Kristalyn Simler and Captain Kristian "Joey" Hawkins the encouragement and courage to pursue their first film! Both have written copious stories and scripts to the chagrin of their parents, spouses and friends and now one will make it on the big screen with your help!

Logline:

Silvia, a spirited youngster, loves spending time with her abuelo on his boat, yet she dreams of flying high in the sky. As she struggles with reading, she must find the courage to overcome her challenges and soar toward her ambitions.

The film highlights the recreational boating community, the educational support system, the city parks, the aviation community, the family-centric heart of the area and the unique beauty that is Gig Harbor!

This short film also honors the many generations of Gig Harbor including those who served in the Vietnam war to elementary school students.

Genre: Lighthearted dramatic film

Length: Short

Duration: 12-15 minutes

Language: English with a dash of Spanglish

Shooting Location: Gig Harbor, Washington

Shoot Date: Summer 2025

Budget: $12,000

WHERE YOU CAN HELP

Compensating Cast and Crew

We want the cast and crew, both experienced and first timers, to be able to have the boasting rights when asked, "Well, did you get paid?" and they can proudly say "Yes!" (even if it is a small amount!). We want to encourage everyone involved in their own creative journeys! As of right now, they are volunteering, but they deserve to be compensated for their time and expertise.

Props, Wardrobe and Locations

Through the generosity of community members we have the local use of a boat and a small plane, but we are also looking for a corporate jet for the cinematic ending. Do you have a connection? Could you donate to our creative cause to help us find one?

Production and Post-Production Equipment

Filmmaking requires the right tools to capture Gig Harbor in all its beauty. We need to edit the film to make it fun and excellent. We want to share with you a polished, cinematic, feel-good final version, which includes color grading, sound mixing and impeccable editing.

Film Festival Submissions

Float and Fly will debut at the Gig Harbor Film Festival in September!

We want to share Gig Harbor and this light-hearted, feel-good, family connection story with others, so it can reach a wider audience and encourage all to FLY!

Additional funding is also needed for set supplies, sunshine and sustenance on set!

We give gifts!

Thank you for your thoughtful consideration in supporting FLOAT AND FLY !