What is Speak?

Speak is a short film set in a world where speech is obsolete, and people rely completely on technology to communicate. The story follows James and Gayle, two young adults who defy social norms and form a bond that could change the world.

What is the status of your project?

As of the launch of this page, we're preparing to start the casting process and plan on shooting the film in late March. Dylan has been working closely with the art director to develop the unique world seen in the film.

Why do you need money and why should I give it to you?

First and foremost, we need to feed our crew. The rest will go toward location costs, props, costumes, equipment rental, and if there's any left over, festival submission fees.

If you look to the right side of the screen, you'll see several rewards being offered for donations as low as $5. You're free to donate any amount you like. Every donation is extremely appreciated!

Who's working on this film?

Our primary crew is made up of an extremely talented group of artists and filmmakers.

Dylan Shaffer & Thom Murray: Co-writers/Directors. Dylan & Thom have been working together since 2006, and have won several awards in local film competitions. Some of their past 48 Hour Films can be seen here: www.youtube.com/caffeinetambourine

Hannah Radcliff: Director of Photography. Hannah is a Webster University grad with several films under her belt. She's also worked behind the camera for  HGTV and The History Channel. Some of her work can be seen here: www.hannahradcliff.com

Josh Miller: Assistant Director. Also a Webster Grad, Josh has worked with Thom & Dylan on most of their projects, and has directed several shorts himself. I don't really have a link to his work, but I promise it's good. You can trust me.

Daniel Shaffer: Art Director. Daniel is Dylan's very talented brother. This is his first time as an art director, and he's already full of great ideas for the film. You can check out some of his concept sketches below!

Zach Ginnever: Post Production. Zach is another person I don't have links for, because he's a wonderfully mysterious man. He'll be handling most of the post production on Speak, including lots of cool visual effects.

Concept Sketches

In the world of Speak, every individual wears a device in their ear that allows them to transmit their thoughts telepathically, eliminating the need to talk(image 1). Connections are made via a transparent, all-purpose tablet screen(image 2). James, the main character, is a member of an underground group called The Speak Movement that seeks to return the world to the way it was before technology turned the general population into emotionless drones. He operates out of a hidden control center in an abandoned building(image 3).