Written by Amber Sutton
MONTGOMERY, Alabama — Montgomery filmmaker Shane Gillis wants to scare you to death with his new project, and he’s hoping you’ll help him do it.
The project, titled “Death to the World,” is a horror film written by Gillis and his creative companion Rick Gardner. While the duo has written several other scripts together previously, this is the first to be made into a film.
“We’ve written several other scripts, but this one decapitated and buried the others, demanding we give it a life on the screen,” said Gillis.
Though most horror films focus on a character that will ultimately become a victim, Gillis said “Death to the World” follows the killer through his daily routine instead, whether it be just hanging out at home or stalking his next target.
“Instead of the camera focusing on some sort of hero, it stays with the killers,” said Gillis. “So you see what they do when they’re not out killing people. I’ve always liked that point of view, and you don’t see it very often.”
In hopes of raising the $6,800 needed to produce the film, Gillis and Gardner are offering up some creative incentives for those willing to donate a few bucks. The donations will be used to pay for equipment and other expenses that come along with making a film.
Among other items, the fundraiser offers donators a shout out in the credits, a Wikipedia page dedicated to their greatness and an honorary monster ballad. The project has currently raised $435 with 27 days remaining in the fundraiser.
Gillis said the majority of “Death to the Word” will be filmed in April at various locations, including a few local residences, the office of NewSouth Books and a Lake Martin property.
While three of the film’s four leads have already been filled, Gillis said they will hostauditions for the remaining characters on Saturday at the Auburn University at Montgomery. So far, Around 30 actors have registered to try-out for the project.
Gillis said his favorite part of film making is simply the experience of mastering a shot and working with others to depict a scene perfectly.
“I love moving with the actors, creating cool shots, experimenting with angles, and just everything about capturing that moment,” said Gillis. “When I get that right, I can ride that feeling for days.”
Once “Death to the World” is complete, Gillis said they hope to have a premiere at the Capri Theatre and enter the film in several festivals. Regardless of those goals, however, Gillis said his main objective is simply to create the type of fear that continues to lurk in the minds of viewers after the credits roll.
“I hope they look over their shoulders for a few days,” said Gillis. “I hope girls squeeze their men’s arms so hard it bruises them when they’re watching it. There’s fun and terror to be had by all.”
For more information, visit the fundraiser page for “Death to the World.”
