A DEATH IN THE FAMILY

'A DEATH IN THE FAMILY' is a story about illness and how something sudden and seemingly random has the potential to change your life and the lives of the people closest to you. What happens when someone you love is sick? How does resentment build when the burden of caring for that loved one is assumed onto you?

Logline :

Themes of illness and the fragility of family bonds resonate throughout the story, exposing the cracks in seemingly ideal relationships and the dark undercurrents that love beneath. The matriarch's desperate fight to hold her family together reflects the painful unraveling of long-held illusions, as violence and chaos seep into their lives. A DEATH IN THE FAMILY explores the haunting consequences of love, loss and unpredictable nature of human emotions.

The Characters :

Evelyn Byrne

Sean Byrne

Anna Byrne

Finn Byrne

Aiden Byrne

Budget :

Our passionate team is working tirelessly to bring the gripping story of A DEATH IN THE FAMILY to life, and we need your support to make this vision a reality! Your contribution to our campaign will directly help us cover crucial production expenses. We are seeking $2,500 to fund the 2-day shoot + rehearsal. The money will be going towards :

Become a vital part of bringing A DEATH IN THE FAMILY to life by contributing to our campaign. No contribution is too small, and every dollar helps us move closer to our goal. Remember, your contribution is instrumental in making this project possible !!

Meet the crew :

Jordan Cormier - Writer & Director

Hi, I'm Jordan, the writer and director of the short film, A DEATH IN THE FAMILY. When I was ten I was diagnosed with diabetes and although my family was very supportive, the experience was terrifying. Soon after, my love for horror developed, becoming an emotional outlet for processing my own life experiences. In creating this capstone, I wanted to take the idea of a middle class nuclear family and externalise the burden of care associated with chronic illness.

I am excited to have found a team that is connected to the story, and I trust that they will continue to support my creative vision. As someone with an invisible disability I am looking forward to making these experiences visible.

Jacob Kowal - Director of Photography

Hi, I'm Jacob Kowal, the cinematographer for A DEATH IN THE FAMILY. The idea of family sticking together really drew me to this story as it reminds me of the relationship with my family, especially my brother, and the importance of supporting one another in times of need. The first act will be simpler and warmer with the focus of introducing the audience to the dynamics of the family. The catalyst will visually flip the film on its head with a lighting and framing change paired with cooler tones that will take over. This will match the tragic absurdity of the horrific events that have unfolded, with the darkness of the basement room cursing this once idealistic family.

Kristian Rowe - Production Designer

Hi, I'm Kristian Rowe, the PD for A DEATH IN THE FAMILY. I have an interest in horror and gore and due to that I was drawn to this project because unlike other projects the gore added to the themes rather than just existing.

In this short props, set dressing, costumes and makeup all play an important role in informing the viewer of what's happening in the plot, so to showcase this, there will be sickly abstract family paintings on the walls to show the sinister underlying illness of the family. And since this story takes place at a family dinner and due to their dietary restrictions, they will be surrounded by vegan dishes which will be contrasted by the bloody red steak, placed in front of the rash heavy and rabid Aiden, who is about to strike.

Adharsha Ramanagirivasan - Producer

Hi, I'm Adharsha, the producer of A DEATH IN THE FAMILY. I have always found myself drawn to stories that explore layered, vulnerable characters. So when I first heard this story from Jordan, I was intrigued by the way the film delves into the delicate intricacies of human emotions and connections. I will be overlooking the entire process of making this film and ensure everything runs smoothly. Every penny donated will be put to proper use in order to make a complete cinematic experience.

Alanna O'Reilly - 1st Assistant Director

Hi, I'm Alanna, the 1st AD of A DEATH IN THE FAMILY. I find myself drawn to this project because I relate to its themes. I come from a middle class family coping with chronic illness in their own uniquely maladaptive ways, not unlike the family in the story, though admittedly less tragic. I’m also excited to put my years of experience staging large groups of actors to good use supporting the director as he manages the many moving pieces of this project to ensure the humanity of these complex characters remains front and centre.

Keeping you posted :

Stay informed with the latest updates about A DEATH IN THE FAMILY by following our campaign ! Your support on GoFundMe not only keeps you updated on our journey but also helps our team unlock exciting milestones. Don't miss out on real-time insights into our production process - follow us on Instagram @adeathinthefamily_shortfilm and be part of our storytelling journey !

Thank you !!