"Rumble": A Short Film about Sisters, Trauma, and Grief. 

Two sisters work through their trauma during a good, old-fashioned, schoolyard Rumble.

Short Film Summary:

“Rumble" tells the story of Babygirl, who would do anything for her sister Ribs—except fight someone. This might be easy were her sister not the leader of the renowned gang, The Angels. When Ribs summons her to a rumble against their rival gang, the power of sisterhood meets its match against the allure of violence. The film explores the dynamics of adolescence, loyalty and sisterhood in a compelling and unique narrative.

Our Story: 

Many films in history attempt to depict girlhood as something “fragile”, “pretty” and “soft”. This is far from the truth. Girlhood is a contradiction, a mess, and sometimes it is simply brutal. For queer and nonbinary youths, the same is true– adolescence can feel like a constant battle. A neverending “rumble”.  Our film explores teens grappling with the harsh reality of the world we live in through the camaraderie of their misfit gangs. These characters refuse to be victims of their environment— they create it.

We are in the era of classic coming-of-age films being revisited; the queer fight club film BOTTOMS was just a smash hit. Cult favorites such as But I’m A Cheerleader, Jennifer’s Body, Jawbreaker, and MeanGirls are all experiencing a cultural resurgence. LGBTQ and female audiences are hungry for more… and we on the Rumble Team want nothing more than to serve this meal !!!

DIRECTOR'S STATEMENT:

"I love classic rumble flicks like West Side Story and The Outsiders,  which tell a deeper story than the punches they throw. And I love pushing the envelope of women-centered films. By combining my own experience of sisterhood and my past with action films, I intend to create the kind of movie that will validate and inspire the next generation of teenagers."

-Jessi Opett

DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY'S VISION STATEMENT

"Hi, I'm Maggie Lucy (@maggielucyscamera), and I'm thrilled to be the director of photography on this project! I'm passionate about crafting distinctive visuals that bring a powerful, abstract style to life. Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, I'm in my fourth and final year at RIT, where I’ve focused on creating cinematic work that highlights unique artistic expression.

Some of my previous projects include directing the cinematography for Paid the Bills with Jessi (watch here: https://youtu.be/ALYaj-MryoQ?si=GQ7_hJBG1d44Ntg1) and a music video for Jerry Big's World Famous Band (watch here: https://youtu.be/HtqLydTvjqk?si=KzvPQQXj2h6oq3VL.)

I’m especially passionate about creating breathtaking visuals that enhance a story’s authenticity and grit, and I’m looking forward to doing just that for Rumble. I can't wait to collaborate with this talented team and support Jessi's vision on this exciting project!"

- Maggie Lucy

About Us:

Jessi Opett - Director

Jessi is a Rochester, NY local who started her film journey in high school making short, JVC videos with friends at her alma mater Bishop Kearney. She has a passion for collaborative art that embraces everything weird, messy, and truthful about the world. Past directorial work includes "A Lovely First Date", "Figure You Out”, and, “Paid the Bills." She ends her academic career pursuing her BFA in film at RIT.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GqOCNdPo6lg&amp...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DR-pwOY8gDc

https://youtu.be/IMQgdCm61NM?si=G5ZBfy49wSaQirzd

Maggie Lucy - Director of Photography 

Maggie has directed cinematography for over five films during her time at RIT, bringing a refined eye for color and composition to each project. This year, she's also the Director of Photographer for the senior thesis films Monstrous Feminine by Megan Brisco, and Candlestick by Mason Gidusko.

Jenna Blakeslee - Producer 

Jenna has written, produced, and directed two films of her own “Moon in the Afternoon” (2023) and “Club 1984” (2024). Through these two projects, Jenna discovered her love and talent for the world of producing. She loves being there for her team, whether that means she's writing emails a mile-a-minute, crunching numbers, or figuring out how to feed your crew on a dime, she’s got you covered. Check out her films: https://youtu.be/OFg8sf-BpZc Take a look at her website: https://nevertomorrowfilms.com/ 

Sara Amedeo - Assistant Director  

Sara is a third-year film production student at RIT with a focus on directing and producing. She is interested in queer/women-focused stories. This is the 4th senior thesis film that she has assistant directed and she is overjoyed to be working with such an amazing team!

Cassie Cooper - Editor 

Cassie Cooper is a 4th year editing crafter at RIT. While at RIT, Cassie has been the lead editor on several films including “Protect Our House”, “Punk ROC” and “Home Stretch”. Cassie has a passion for helping tell compelling and complex female stories, so she knew when Rumble was presented, she had to be on it.

Our Cast:

What We Need & What You Get

We are seeking $4,000 in funding, to go towards locations, craft services, set decoration, and other production costs. Make a donation to receive benefits like early access, signed posters, and more!

We are also always looking for meals and snacks for our crew! If you are able to donate food or know of any restaurant owners who might be interested in collaborating this way please contact: rumblethefilm0@gmail.com

Thanks and Spread the Word!

Thank you all for checking out our IndieGoGo page and for your generous donations! ARE YOU READY TO RUMBLE?