Welcome to our fundraising page for the Chapman University senior thesis film, WISH I WERE A PHOENIX.
ABOUT THE FILM
Wish I Were A Phoenix is a musical drama about resilience, grief, and transformation. After losing her house in a fire, a teenage girl named Marta begins to notice feathers growing from her skin. As she struggles to understand what’s happening, her grief is expressed through music in defiant performances that blur the line between fantasy and reality. After already losing her mother at a young age, Marta takes what her mother taught her (of music) as a means to communicate with her disconnected father.
When Marta finally reveals her song in front of her school, she finds that she feels more connected to her father than ever. Their final song becomes an emotional rebirth for both of them, a reminder that healing doesn’t mean forgetting; it means rising from the ashes together.
At its core, this film celebrates how music and art can turn pain into connection. It’s bold, heartfelt, and visually ambitious with practical effects, handcrafted wings, and emotional performances that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
DIRECTOR STATEMENT
“There is art within everyone. Music doesn’t just help people get through hard times, but everyone knows how it can transform a person to help one realize one is not alone. With art comes vulnerability, and where there is vulnerability, there is community. Like Marta, I believe art can transform pain into strength, and I want that truth to shine through every frame of this film. She even finds that being vulnerable through music is what brings her closer to her father.
As a Latina filmmaker who grew up singing and dancing, I strongly connect with Marta’s creative spirit and her journey to find healing through music. Performing has always been a safe space for me, and I know how vulnerable and powerful it feels to share your heart in art–just as Marta shares her heart song at the end of the film. My cousin’s family even lost their house in the Eaton fire. Their home is forever redefined by their experience, and that is something that I want to honor and reflect.”
WHERE THE DONATIONS GO
Your support helps us make this story come alive by covering:
- Original music composition and scoring
- Location rentals for realistic schools for dance numbers
- Payment for talented actors (including SAG-AFTRA performers)
- Equipment for cinematography, sound, and lighting
- Custom costume design, including handcrafted Phoenix wings
MEET THE KEY CREW!
Director: Sierra Brogmus
Producer: Anthony Parker
Director of Photography: Amelia Jáuregui
Production Designer: Kyran Brown
Editor: Kylie Moy
Sound Designer: Ryan Jachetta
Composer: Caleb Still
Unit Production Manager: Smith Romney
SHOOTING: February 13-22, 2026
THANK YOU
We understand not everyone can give financially. Sharing our page, reposting on social media, or simply spreading the word helps more than you know.
If you’d like to get more involved, collaborate, or contribute in-kind resources, reach out to our producer, Anthony Parker.
This project marks the culmination of our time at Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts. Wish I Were a Phoenix is our chance to create something truly special, celebrating family and the power of music to heal.
Your support makes it possible. Thank you for helping us rise!
STAY CONNECTED:
For production updates & behind the scenes content, check out our film’s Instagram!
@wishiwereaphoenixfilm