The Film
Death in a Diner follows the story of Sarah, a young woman working at her mom’s old diner, and Death, a frequent customer. When Death comes into the diner on the eve of Sarah’s 24th birthday, they both look back and consider where they are in life as they ponder the question: “Would you be happy with your life if you died tonight?”
Meet the Crew!
Hi, my name is Meghan AmRhein and I am the Writer/Director of Death in a Diner. As a Junior in the Montana State University Film Program, I am excited to be directing my first short film. This script is all about remembering to live life the way you want to and not the way someone else wants you to live it. Especially now, since COVID-19 has disrupted so many aspects of our lives, it’s important to remember not to be scared of living and to remember that life is a fickle, fickle thing.
We have a talented group of juniors leading this project. Our producer is Ashley Moore, our Director of Photography is Sam Pfeiffer, and our Gaffer is Jasper Poore. Along with that, we have a talented group of students who will be helping us bring this project to life.
However, we cannot do that without your help!
How You Can Help
Funding is vital to any film, and as a student film we work on a very small production budget. Thanks to the generosity of the School of Film and Photography Checkout Team, all of our equipment expenses are covered. As a result, our biggest and most important expense is food so that we can provide meals, snacks, and drinks to all of our cast and crew members. Here is an inside look at some of our estimated expenses:
- Food: $700
- Costumes/Set Design: $300
- COVID-19 Supplies: $50
- Location Costs: $100
- Miscellaneous Equipment: $100
- Cast: $100
- Post-Production: $70
- Film Festivals: $100
- Wiggle-Room Expenses (i.e. transportation, production office supplies, campaign fees, and any other unforeseen circumstances): $480
Be sure to check out our unique perks for donating!
The Impact
Your contributions will help a group of young, student filmmakers gain more experience in the work force as they prepare to enter the film industry.
Risks & Challenges
The biggest risk our production faces is COVID-19. To ensure every member on our set is kept safe, here are some of the precautions we will be taking:
- A COVID Compliance Officer will be present on set at all times.
- Temperatures will be checked three times a day.
- Masks will be worn at all times. Actors will be allowed to un-mask when cameras are rolling, but will re-mask in between takes.
- Hand sanitizer and sanitation wipes will be available on set to keep our hands and surfaces clean.
- We will follow CDC guidelines and the standards that are being used in the professional film industry.
Other Ways You Can Help
If you can't donate to our film, no worries! Spreading the word and sharing our campaign and social media helps us just as much.
Follow our Instagram: @deathinadinerfilm
Thank you for helping us make this film!