Shattering Thrones Crowdfunding

Shattering Thrones Crowdfunding Campaign

In a land where magic has been outlawed, a warlock named Stefan is forced to become the
food taster - and poison tester - of the human king.

Shattering Thrones is a story that provides a diverse and curious lens into the fantasy genre,
diving headfirst into issues of morality and community as it intersects with shame and prejudice.
As someone devoted to impactful storytelling, I am passionate to bring the world of Therolios to life.

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Shattering Thrones began as an independent writing project for NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) in 2015. Since its inception 10 years ago, the story has continued to bubble, double, toil, and trouble in its cauldron.

Set in the land of Therolios, magic is possible, but strictly forbidden, and for generations, those with magical ancestry have been forced to live in walled villages. Stefan Blackthorn is one such warlock, and although he has never trouble, and after spitting in a soldier's eye, Stefan is arrested. However, an unexpected assassination of the King's cupbearer causes his trial to unfold differently than both humans and witches expected. Should one survive at a cost or die for a cause? These are just the first few questions Stefan grapples with in his newfound role, but many more questions will bubble up as Stefan learns that everything he's been taught isn't what it seems.

Shattering Thrones brings a fresh perspective to to the world of fantasy, centering unconventional characters and exploring complicated themes that resonate with all who live at the mercy of their governing authority: complicity and consequences...survival and surveillance...power and privilege...and much more.

This proof-of-concept short film will be shot entirely in the fictional language of Therolian, created by Matt Grimes, and will adapt the pivotal scene in the novel which sets the rest of the story into motion. After Stefan's trial, the world will never be the same as family, friends, and foes alike respond to the consequences of Stefan's actions.

WHY THIS?

Shattering Thrones is a decade-long story in the making. This is not a fleeting moment of inspiration; it is the next step in bringing the world of Therolios to audiences worldwide.

WHY US?

The team that has become attached to this project has each expressed interest in working in the genre of fantasy because of limited opportunities to satisfy this itch previously. We are a team of multitalented working professionals who are eager to create a project that is exceptional and entertaining. We have a demonstrated history of successful filmmaking working both with shoestring budgets and tens of thousands of dollars.

WHY NOW?

The film industry has been in a rough patch since 2020 between COVID-19, talent and crew strikes, and the threat of Artificial Intelligence. Since graduating in 2020, Matt Grimes has dreamed of pulling back the curtain on his imagination for the world to see, but has been met with larger-than-life obstacles. Some dust has settled, and other conflicts have stirred: the themes explored in this story, such as prejudice, sovereignty, agency, and oppression have gripped the world in unprecedented ways. We know this story will challenge audiences to embrace open-mindedness, inner power, and love while challenging the actions and stories that cause hate to thrive.

For this project, we are aiming to raise at least $2,000 to meet the needs of our Production Design. Most of the money we receive will go towards building the world in which this story is set, such as sets and costumes. Other/additional funds will be used to finance equipment, rent spaces, and pay our hardworking cast and crew.

Currently, we plan to produce this project before the end of the year. Development and pre-production will continue through September and October as we crowdfund, finalize our designs, and put together our team. Our eyes are set on shooting in early November, with backup dates in early December. Post-Production will continue through the winter months into 2026, with an expected release date in March or April.

Matt Grimes, CREATOR

Matt Grimes is a Massachusetts-born, Chicago-based storyteller of the page, stage, and screen. Throughout his career, which started when he was six years old, he has worked on hundreds of films, shows, and commercials. He graduated summa cum laude from Columbia College Chicago in 2020 and is currently signed with Promote Talent Agency. When it comes to creating his own work, he is a big fan of the fantasy genre, and enjoys surprising audiences and challenging their perspective. He does this not only through acting and writing; he is well-known in the Chicago community for his photography and videography.

Ricardo Bouyett, DIRECTOR

Ricardo Bouyett is a queer Puerto Rican filmmaker working in the Chicagoland area with expertise in narrative, music, and experimental visual storytelling. Coming from a Fine Art & Commercial background in Photography, Ricardo graduated from Columbia College Chicago in 2015 and has since been paving his own way between industries. With an unconventional track record over the last decade, Ricardo has created a prolific portfolio of narrative short film, documentary, and music video work. Ricardo launched his production house, Bouy Films, in 2023. Recently nominated in the Best Filmmaker category for the Chicago Reader’s Best of Chicago 2023 list, Bouyett has been both an administrative and creative lead constantly advocating for on-set safety and streamlining communication and information between all levels of production. Ricardo is eager for every opportunity that will allow him to continue to create culturally relevant and impactful work.

Hannah Scout Dunaway, PRODUCTION DESIGNER

Hannah Scout Dunaway is a Production Designer based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She is passionate about highlighting untold stories and perspectives through the medium and loves to work in genre filmmaking. Whether it's looking at the big picture or combing over the fine details, she brings an exceptional amount of dedication and skill to the art department. She specializes in the art department, HMUA, and SFX while also directing her own work. Her short film, Gorge, won her the audience award at Open Projector Night in Grand Rapids. She is passionate about Midwest & Michigan Filmmaking, and spoke at the Michigan House of Representatives in support of the Multimedia Jobs Act.