'The Will To Burn' Feature Film Fundraiser

'The Will To Burn' is an independent feature film that tells the story of ambitious young artists in a way that only ambitious young artists can.

THE FILM follows Carrigan, an actor, Saint, a painter, and Cole, a photographer, as they move from their small southern town to the city to pursue their artistic ambitions. But the road less taken is not an easy path, and they each find themselves faced again and again with obstacles, from rejections to mistakes to their own fears standing in their way. As the trio's friendship crumbles, Carrigan, Saint, and Cole each gain the confidence to stand on their own and work for their aspirations, finding their way back to each other and learning that community and the people they care about are at the very heart of each of their crafts.

WHO WE ARE:

DIRECTOR - Madeleine Carstens

Madeleine Carstens is a multi-award-nominated director, screenwriter, and actress who has been featured on international platforms including Disney+, Hulu, and ABC. Her short films have received, among many others, Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay nominations at festivals across the United States, and twice premiered at AMC Theatres. At the age of 20, she graduated as Valedictorian of Full Sail University’s Film Bachelor’s of Science Program, and then furthered her education at the world-renowned Oxford School of Drama, assc. Trinity College, University of Oxford, as one of twelve students invited from around the globe to participate in their Screen courses. On her 21st birthday, she founded and became CEO of Ghost Light Productions, an independent production company that received more than 30 award nominations in the first year of its establishment. As an independent filmmaker, she strives to share stories of artistic integrity and expression, hoping to hold up a mirror to the world so that it sees not only what it is, in all its broken beauty, but what it could be, and in ‘The Will To Burn’ she sees a reflection of her own creative journey and ideals that she is ecstatic to bring to life.

WRITER - Brianna Hicks

Brianna Hicks' experience as an actress spans across award-winning independent films, viral web series, and national commercials. She has earned multiple Best Actress awards and nominations at acclaimed film festivals across the country, and is a celebrated figure in the Florida acting community. Using her expertise as an actor, she wrote 'The Will To Burn' as a love letter to the creative community. She is sure that every artist, especially actors, will understand the struggles in this story, and hopes those who can’t directly relate will lend empathy to those who find themselves in Cole, Saint, and Carrigan.

ACTOR/PRODUCER - Austin Lampe

Austin Lampe is a multi award-winning actor, who has been pursuing his craft since the of 18, studying under acclaimed instructors including the likes of Rus Blackwell. He features in Disney+ and AppleTV series, and has had leading and supporting roles in several independent features. In 'The Will To Burn', he takes on the complexities of Carrigan White, the lead character, as well as stepping behind the scenes as a producer.

DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY - Mathew Dirnfeld

Mathew Dirnfeld is an award-nominated Director of Photography, with his work being recognized by Best Cinematographer and Best Picture awards at film festivals across the country. While earning his Bachelor's Degree in Film at Full Sail University, he was DP of several award-winning student films, along with being on the camera team of a union feature. He’s worked on many short films and independent projects, including ‘Where Are The Strawberry Fields?’, which serves as the visual inspiration for ‘The Will To Burn’. His vision for the film is a simple, realistic look with a dreamy edge, achieved through the choice of lens and lighting. As the story progresses, the dreamy look will fade, representing the characters’ increasing struggles with their crafts and darker outlook on reality.

1ST ASSISTANT DIRECTOR - Hannah Keime

Hannah Keime is an independent filmmaker whose work has been awarded, recognized, and viewed worldwide. Having stepped into many positions on film sets, from sound to producer, Hannah looks forward to bringing her experience and sense of the whole crew to her position on 'The Will To Burn' as First Assistant Director. When she's not working on set, Hannah runs the non-profit organization HeartCharged, which she co-founded with her older sister. She utilizes her filmmaking abilities and acting skills to create content that informs, unites, and brings authentic representation to the heart patient community, of which she is a member.

OUR PLAN:

With pre-production well underway, your donation will go towards covering the production costs of a micro-budget independent feature. We're partnering with Florida artistic and educational institutions, and we have a marketing team in place to launch our social media campaign. Upon completion, the film will be submitted to prestigious film festivals around the world, and after its festival run will be distributed online via streaming. Stay updated on our progress via our social media handle - @thewilltoburnfilm, and Our Website.

For more information on Ghost Light Productions, visit

Ghost Light Productions Website

INCENTIVES:

Your support means so much to us, and we want to show our appreciation by getting you involved!

All donations over $20 receive an end credit in the film.

All donations over $100 receive a feature on our social media platforms and a poster signed by cast and crew.

All donations over $500 receive free admission to the film's premiere (travel/accommodation not included).

All donations over $1,000 receive a personal copy of the script, signed by the cast and director.

All donations over $2,500 receive access to be on set for one day of filming (travel/accommodation not included).

We have the experience and the idea - now help us create our own opportunity!