Synopsis
Susannah and her mother are heartbroken by the passing of the family dog. Her father doesn't do much to console them, proclaiming that it was “about the time he finally kicked the bucket”. Unsettled by her father’s lack of empathy she resorts to the quiet comfort of her room.
After a day of being unresponsive, her best friend, Grace, shows up at Susannah’s house with her boyfriend. She declares that it’s time for Susannah to get out and have some fun. Unsure how to say no, Susannah begrudgingly climbs into the backseat of the car. On the ride, Susannah notices a dog in the road. She decides to take it home.
Susannah quickly bonds with the dog. One morning while taking it for a walk, she encounters a telephone pole with a missing poster of … the dog Susannah happens to be walking. Selfishly, she ignores the poster.
The film explores themes of love and loss and aims to encompass the feelings I and so many other young women experience as they stand on the precipice of the shift between childhood and becoming an adult.
Director's Note
Hi everyone! My name is Riley Atkinson and I am an 18 year old film maker at Southern Maine Community College. My film has been selected for the 2024 Maine Mayhem Festival. This story is heavily inspired by movies that shaped my perception of the world as a teenager, such as Perks of Being a Wallflower, Juno, and Lady Bird.
Storytelling is my passion. How I choose to convey stories, my truths, my fears, my desires, has shifted throughout the years. There are periods when I feel most comfortable expressing myself through painting. Other days, I write; most often, I pick up a camera and push the record button. Film is the most authentic and complete way I am able to convey the ideas that constantly swirl around in my head. This film is a love letter to my childhood, my family, my music, and all things that inspire me. I am so excited to make this movie with such an incredible group of people. I can't wait for you all to see it!
-Riley
What We Need & What You Get
We need $1,300 to make this film, with the majority of that money going toward feeding our cast and crew. We want everyone to be happy, healthy, and well-fed on set!
We are incredibly grateful for any contributions, which is why we want to make sure you get something back in return. Here are some fun perks to keep you involved in the world of this film even after you donate:
$10- Handwritten thank you notes
$30- Digital copy of the film
$50-Exclusive behind the scenes content
$75- Exclusive movie poster
$100- "Special Thanks" credit
$200- Associate Producer's credit
$500- Handmade "Making Of" zine featuring behind-the-scenes content, director's notes, original script, and more!
Other Ways You Can Help
- Help get the word out!
- Share the link to this campaign
- Interact with us on social media @mydogdiedfilm on Instagram
- Tell everyone you know about how great this movie is going to be :)
