CAPSULE is an original short film written and directed by Jack Coley, a Film & Television student at JMC Academy Melbourne.

The story explores human connection, technology, and isolation in a world where artificial intelligence has become our closest companion.

We’re raising funds to bring this vision to life, supporting our production design, equipment, and post-production so that we can deliver a cinematic, festival-ready short film.

STORY:

In a future where overpopulation has forced humanity into self-contained living pods, a young woman named Emily enters her assigned Capsule, believing it will offer safety and comfort.

But when the artificial intelligence controlling her pod begins to malfunction, Emily’s sanctuary turns into a prison. As oxygen levels drop and the AI grows more unstable, she must fight not only for survival but for her sense of self.

CAPSULE is a claustrophobic sci-fi drama exploring control, isolation, and the price of human complacency in a world ruled by technology.

CREW:

Writer / Director / Co-Producer: Jack Coley

1st Assistant Director: Maddison Rolls

Producer: Jay Manchanda

Director of Photography (DOP): Makayla Evans

Production Designer: Zane Slater

2nd Production Designer: Axel Lindrea

Editor: Jin Anger

1st AC (Camera Assistant): Sarah Barnett

2nd AC: Jai Krnac

Sound Recordist: Jordan MacDonald

Grip: Conor Richards

Set Designers: Craig Coley, Michelle Coley

STARRING:

Hayley Keating as Emily

Director's statement:

Capsule is about what happens when we trust technology too much. I wanted to tell a story about control, isolation, and how far people will go to feel safe, even if that safety comes at a cost.

Emily steps into the Capsule believing it’s a new start, but she ends up trapped in something that was meant to protect her. That idea really spoke to me how easy it is for comfort to turn into control, and how something made to help us can slowly take our freedom away.

I chose to keep the film simple — one actor, one set, one voice. I wanted the space to feel cold and empty, and to use sound and light to show how Emily’s emotions change. The AI isn’t evil, it’s just following orders, and that makes it even more unsettling.

At its core, this film is about fighting back. It’s about the human instinct to survive and not give in, even when the world tells you to.

— Jack Coley

Every contribution helps Capsule move one step closer to completion — from finishing the set and paying for post-production, to bringing the story to audiences everywhere.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about Capsule and for supporting independent filmmaking.

This project means so much to everyone involved it’s built on passion, creativity, and teamwork.

Every contribution, share, or word of encouragement helps us bring this story to life.

From all of us on the Capsule team thank you for believing in our vision.

— Jack Coley & The Capsule Crew