Hi, my name is Shawn D. Smith Jr., and I’m creating a short film called Children of Anansi. This project is more than just a film it’s the beginning of a much larger story: a supernatural TV series set in New Orleans, exploring family, culture, and the fight for power in a hidden world.

At its core, this is the story of three brothers: Sekani, Ejiro, and Dakari who return home to uncover their family’s supernatural legacy. Tied to the ancient Anan’Ka (Children of Anansi), they must balance loyalty, identity, and survival as they’re pulled into conflicts far bigger than themselves.

This short film will serve as a proof of concept to bring the larger series to life and with your support, we can make it happen.

Why this project matters:

• Represents African supernatural lore blended with the rich culture of New Orleans.

• A fresh take on brotherhood, responsibility, and legacy, with a modern supernatural edge.

• Opportunities for local cast, crew, and creatives to showcase their talent.

• A story about family, culture, and survival that resonates beyond genre fans.

We are asking for $15,000, which will be enough to get us through production and post-production.

• Production: Covers filming days, including camera, lighting, and sound equipment, stipends for cast and crew, location rentals, and costumes/set needs.

• Post-production: Ensures the film is edited, polished with sound design, visual effects, and color correction so the finished short is festival-ready and professional quality.

Here’s where your support will go:

• Camera, Lighting & Sound

• Cast Stipends

• Crew Stipends

• Locations & Permits

• Costumes, Props & Set Design

• Editing, VFX & Sound Design

• Marketing & Festivals

If we’re blessed to raise beyond $15,000, every extra dollar will make the film stronger:

• $18,000 → Extra filming days to expand key scenes.

• $20,000 → Enhanced visual effects & sound design for a bigger supernatural impact.

• $22,500 → Professional marketing materials (posters, press kit, trailer).

• $25,000+ → A festival tour fund, covering submissions to top film festivals worldwide and opening doors to pitch the full series.

Also would love your help by:

Donating any amount — even $5 brings us closer.

• Share this campaign with friends, family, and on social media.

• Become a supporter of independent filmmaking and cultural storytelling.

• $250 or more → Invitation to the private premiere screening of Children of Anansi.

• $500 or more → Invitation to the private premiere & your name featured in the film’s credits.

This project is more than a short film it’s the spark of something much greater. Children of Anansi is not just a story; it’s a movement. It’s about family, culture, and community brought to life through supernatural storytelling in a way that’s never been seen before.

With your support, this short film will open doors for future episodes, new voices, and representation that matters.

Thank you for believing in this vision and helping bring Children of Anansi to life.