Support Maria's Dream: In Ink Short Film

Story: In Ink is a bold, high-energy short film about Sophie, a rising musician facing one last shot before giving up her dream to move to London and live with family. With her band divided and the clock ticking, Sophie takes matters into her own hands — reinventing herself in disguise and riding the elevators of a record label all night, spreading rumors until buzz becomes wildfire. By the time the right A&R rep finally shows up, the hype has taken on a life of its own — setting the stage for a breathtaking live performance where the truth is revealed and the deal is literally signed “in ink.” Blending the grit of a punk-rock hustle with the spectacle of a music video, In Ink is a stylish, inspirational ride about ambition, reinvention, and the audacity to make your own legend.

Maria Skakun (Director/Executive Producer) is an award-winning director, producer, and movement coach with over a decade of experience across music videos, live shows, immersive experiences, and branded content. She has directed and produced for artists including BUSH, Westside Boogie, Zach Villa, CJ Green, and Carly Lind, as well as campaigns for fashion label Chapter 8. Her work has been recognized at the Global Music Awards, Film Arts and Hearts, and Florence Film Awards. From Los Angeles venues like Avalon and the Bourbon Room to international tours and immersive one-woman performances, Maria’s expertise spans intimate showcases and large-scale productions. She has also directed IP-based attractions for Six Flags Fright Fest. Known for blending storytelling and movement, she brings bold creative visions to life across mediums, making her a versatile and collaborative force in entertainment.

Sophie Cooper (Executive Producer, Lead Actress) is an actress and musician with training from The London School of Dramatic Art and Stella Adler Studio in New York City. In Los Angeles, she has performed with acclaimed theater companies including JFI Productions and 88twenty, and starred in the hit musical Cages from 2019 to 2022. On screen, she appeared in the feature film Good Mourning alongside Colson Baker (Machine Gun Kelly) and Mod Sun in 2022, followed by The Blue Rose in 2023. Expanding into music, Sophie is now collaborating with producer Kevin Thrasher on her upcoming EP, bringing her dual passions for performance and music to new audiences.

Amy Kole (Writer) is an award-winning writer with nearly a decade of experience spanning live entertainment and filmed media. She has collaborated with major partners including Universal Studios Japan, Walt Disney World, Warner Bros., DC, and Lionsgate, bringing iconic brands and stories to life on global stages and screens. Her work extends beyond film and television into immersive theater, virtual reality, award shows, drive-thrus, walk-thrus, and large-scale Halloween

experiences. Having partnered with both small studios and world-renowned corporations, Amy’s versatility allows her to craft stories that resonate across mediums and audiences alike.

Chaz Moneypenny (Writer) is an award-winning narrative director and writer with over a decade of experience creating world-class stories for Disney, Warner Bros., and Universal Studios. He has written and directed more than 30 attractions seen by millions worldwide, including major projects for Star Wars, Marvel, Pixar, Superman, and Sailor Moon. His work spans theme parks, film, immersive experiences, and comics, blending deep expertise in storytelling with the ability to deliver complex projects on time and at scale. Having collaborated directly with creative legends such as Stan Lee, Sailor Moon creator Naoko Takeuchi, and Academy Award winner Takashi Yamazaki, Chaz brings a proven track record of translating bold creative visions into successful, large-scale productions.