Mission Statement
This film is deeply personal to Linden, honoring his family's legacy and Texas history. The Dodson family faced immense hardship in the 1940s, and by sharing their story, Linden hopes to foster empathy and preserve their struggles.
The Story
Set in the early 1940s near Waco, Texas, a young boy, George, who, along with his father, Joseph, and mother, Lily, takes refuge in an abandoned gas station. George defies his family and their emotional instability and runs away into a nearby forest. George spends hours admiring the environment, but as he comes across a clearing, he eventually finds what he was looking for: his family’s old house that was recently burned down. George, emotional to see his old home in ruin, runs away from the house and back to the gas station, realizing the importance of family, regardless of what his physical home is.
The primary goal for Carthage is to distribute it to film festivals across Texas, showcasing the film's compelling storytelling and stylistic approach. Success in the festival circuit would hopefully pave the way for a feature-length biopic on George's life as an impoverished man in Texas who never fulfilled his dreams.
Meet The Team!
Linden Dodson- Director and Producer
Linden Dodson is a filmmaker that recently graduated from UT Austin’s Radio-Television-Film program. Specializing in realistic dramas, Linden draws inspiration from his home state of Texas, weaving narratives that challenge traditional southern ideals while delivering engaging and thought-provoking stories. Linden has recently directed and produced Never Free, which has recently screened at DIFF Shorts Film Festival, ATX Short Film Showcase, and Lost River Film Festival.
Caleb Anderson- Line Producer
Caleb Anderson is a producer studying at the University of Texas, specializing in commercial productions and advertisements. Caleb has produced a plentiful amount of short films, spec ads, and music videos throughout his time in Austin. His aspiration is to make his colleague's stories known. Caleb’s most recent project was an interview with Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson for the University of Texas.
Ava Wilson- Associate Producer
Ava Wilson is a Texas-based film producer passionate about bringing bold, meaningful stories to life. She is pursuing a B.S. in Radio, Television, and Film at The University of Texas at Austin (graduating December 2026), where she has produced multiple short films that have earned recognition at film festivals worldwide. She is excited to contribute to bringing Carthage to life.
Jacquelyn Nevarez- Associate Producer
Jacquelyn Nevarez is a 3rd year Radio Television Film student at the university of Texas at Austin. She has produced multiple projects and is excited to contribute to Carthage.
Galen Smithhisler- Director of Photography
Galen Smithhisler is a director of photography and director studying at the University of Texas. Galen has shot multiple short films and music videos, including See Me, Never Free, and West 22nd's Let Down. Continuing his collaboration with West 22nd, Galen recently directed two of their most recent music videos: Laugh it Off and Savannah.
