A Matter of Poultry

Nandini Bapat is a queer, Indian-American actress, most known for her recurring roles on HBO’s Silicon Valley, NBC’s Good Girls and APPLE TV +’s Mythic Quest. She also writes TV genre dramas about unlikely characters who ‘find their Excalibur’ and step up to save the world. She staffed previously on a video game adaptation of DC comics properties, wrote and produced award-winning short films and several of her scripts have won Semifinalist and Quarterfinalist awards on Big Break and WeScreenplay screenwriting contests. 

Ellen Jung (Producer) studied Production and Design (P&D) at Orange County School of the Arts focusing on artistic pieces such as musicals and theater performances. Later, she found a passion for movies and majored in Film and Electronic Arts with a specialty in Production Management. Ellen has synesthesia, where she perceives color or shapes while listening to music and experiences colors in addition to daily life, enabling her to see the world
colorfully; it helps her with creativity and allows her to be open-minded. She has taken on numerous production assistant and runner roles for commercials and films, where she assisted the crew through the stages of pre-production to production.

Shift Orion is a seasoned creative with a diverse background that spans theater, film, audio, and writing. He thrives in the collaborative environment of live and pre-recorded production with adaptable approaches as a writer, story developer, producer, sound engineer, and production assistant. His experience encompasses creative consulting and coordination with interest in the power of sound design to enhance narratives and create immersive experiences. As a versatile strategist, Shift excels at tackling complex projects and finding innovative solutions.
 

A creative with scope! Shift is also a musician and composer, bringing an additional layer of artistic expression to his work. His passion for humanity is evident throughout his career, which has seen him navigate a fascinating range of industries. From case management and theater projection to door-to-door sales and birthwork/infant care, Shift has a unique perspective cultivated through a wide spectrum of experiences. This multifaceted background allows him to connect with diverse audiences and bring fresh ideas to the table.
 

A master of collaboration, Shift's strength lies not just in his own creativity, but in his ability to elevate the work of others. He is a skilled collaborator, working effectively with co-writers and clients to refine characters, plot points, story arcs, immersive elements, loglines, and promotional and funding strategy. He fosters a creative environment where ideas can flourish, ensuring that every story reaches its full potential.
 

Supporting new voice champions, Shift's passion extends beyond crafting exceptional stories. He is a strong advocate for under-heard storytellers, actively facilitating access to mentorship and tools they need to highlight their voices.
 

Shift Orion is a creative powerhouse with a proven ability to thrive in dynamic environments. His versatility, strategic thinking, and passion for storytelling, coupled with his collaborative spirit and dedication to empowering new voices, make him a valuable asset to any team.

Vaibhavi Bansal is a film director, producer, and an assistant director. Born and raised in India, Vaibhavi's academic journey started with a Bachelor's degree in English Literature, a foundation that enriched her storytelling abilities and added depth to her understanding of human narratives. However, it was the call of the silver screen that beckoned her to new horizons.

She embarked on a transformative journey pursuing a Master’s in Film Production at Full Sail University. Here, she immersed herself in the art and science of filmmaking, learning the intricacies of the craft from industry veterans and fellow enthusiasts.During her tenure at Full Sail, Vaibhavi not only expanded her technical prowess but also cultivated essential soft skills crucial for the collaborative world of filmmaking.

Her experience speaks volumes about her adept communication skills, remarkable teamwork, and a flair for leadership roles. These attributes have proven invaluable as she navigates the dynamic and multifaceted landscape of film production. Her foray into assistant directing provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the intricate dance between cast and crew, solidifying her reputation as a director with a keen eye for detail and a collaborative spirit.

Beyond the glitz and glamour of the film industry, Vaibhavi Bansal is a proponent of continuous learning and community building. Her journey exemplifies the possibilities that unfold when passion meets dedication, and her story is an inspiration for aspiring filmmakers globally. In the ever-evolving landscape of cinema, Vaibhavi continues to make waves, pushing the boundaries of storytelling and leaving an indelible mark on the tapestry of world cinema.

Anne Akhila (she/her) is proudly biracial: South Indian on her mom’s side, and Jewish on her dad’s side. Hailing from a lineage of Indian classical artists, Anne specializes in Bharatha Natyam. As an actress, she had her breakout lead in indie feature, My Best Friend's Famous, (w/ the late Ryan O'Neal and Mindy Sterling). Anne is a recent East West Players NBCUniversal scholarship winner. An improviser at heart, she’s a Groundlings and UCB improv alum (multiple diversity scholarship winner), ABC South Asian Workshop participant, and writes & performs sketch comedy. Training includes: East West Players, Acting Center, Baron Brown Studio. Upcoming releases include: Hand of God, Big Yikes, and Ronnie California. Anne is represented by A&R Management and Activity Talent, commercially.

Zhuolin Hong is a cinematographer currently based in LA. He was born and raised in China and moved to New York by himself at the age of 15, away from his family. Later, he found his passion in filmmaking and completed his BFA degree in film production at the University of Colorado, Boulder. 

Drawing from his multicultural roots, Zhuolin's work spans a diverse spectrum, encompassing narrative films, commercials, and music videos. His distinctive cinematography style mirrors the vibrant tapestry of colors that define his worldview. Notably, his work has graced esteemed platforms such as the Los Angeles Cinematography AWARDS, Denver Film Festival, Rhode Island International Film Festival, VETTY Awards®, etc. 

Dedicated to championing underrepresented voices, Zhuolin is committed to shining lights on narratives that often dwell in the shadows, breathing life into colorful stories.

Wenhan Zhang is a professional working Gaffer in both Los Angeles and Chicago. His work contains gaffing for the Chicago Blackhawks, Lollapalooza, and many other famous personals. With a 3 year lighting experience, Wenhan is going to use all his experience in lighting A Matter of Poultry. Wenhan also works at Columbia College Chicago’s Film Lighting Cage to help students with equipment checkouts while also teacher assisting with classes such as Lighting 1 and 2. Wenhan is excited to be part of the team behind A Matter of Poultry to make this film come to life!

Hey there, I’m a 19-year-old Los Angeles native currently navigating the ins and outs of college life at CSUN while pursuing my passion for filmmaking. My journey into the world of filmmaking began about three years ago, and since then, I've been fully immersed in the hustle and bustle of the industry. While I primarily find myself behind the camera, tinkering with lenses and framing shots, I've also had the opportunity to dip my toes into various other roles in the art department and grip and electric. Each experience has been a whirlwind of learning and growth, teaching me the importance of versatility and adaptability in this fast-paced field.

Beyond the sets, I love playing guitar. Music has always been an escape for me and has always been a way to unwind and further tap into my creative spirit. Whether I'm strumming along to my favorite tunes or experimenting with my own melodies, playing music is a comfortable escape from the chaos of the filmmaking world. 

What drives me in both film and music is the power of storytelling. There's something incredibly motivating about putting stories together, whether it's through visuals or soulful melodies. I'm constantly inspired by the artistry of both mediums and strive to infuse my work with the same level of passion and authenticity. And I continue to navigate my way through college and the film industry, I approach each day with an open mind and a thirst for knowledge. I'm always on the lookout for new opportunities to collaborate, learn, and push the boundaries of my creativity. Whether it's on set or in everyday life, I'm ready to dive headfirst into whatever adventure comes my way, fueled by my love for storytelling and my unwavering dedication to my craft

Chanthen Nene is a rising film maker, recent film school graduate, and an avid advocate for low vision/blind individuals in the film industry. He helped create several short films as well as being the host of his own YouTube cooking channel.

As an advocate, Nene was appointed twice to the Virginia State Rehabilitation Council, which helped promote the well-being of visually impaired individuals. He was also a mentor to those with various disabilities ranging from those with Autism to completely blind individuals. 

Chanthen is excited to explore all aspects of filmmaking, from working as an Assistant Director on 'Kurta Pants' to one day directing films and commercials, and also  creating accurate representation for those with visual impairments. 

Alexander is a highly skilled sound engineer with a proven track record of success in the global media production landscape. With a foundation built on sound engineering principles and video production techniques, he brings creativity, innovation to every project. 

His career journey has taken him from Kyiv University of Culture and Arts to Los Angeles, where he’s contributed to some of the industry's studios and productions, such as We Make Movies, Glasscore Entertainment, Lany Entertainment, Ante Up Productions, Movieverse Entertainment and Lfilm Productions in Fort Lauderdale, FL. 

He has leveraged expertise in sound engineering and design to shape the sonic landscapes of blockbuster films and high-profile productions, played an integral role in studio operations and recording processes, and ensured the seamless execution of projects. 

He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Sound Engineering from Kyiv University of Culture and Arts, Kyiv, Ukraine, is proficient in sound engineering principles and techniques, experienced in video production and post-production processes, and skilled in sound design and recording.

As an Actor I don't have much to show for set design however as the daughter of a painter who decorated her home very creatively & tastefully, I have a great appreciation for color, design and decor. I love taking really messed up homes & recreating them full of life & color. In the Bay Area I remodelled a home that was so decrepit that in that insanely hot market, we were the only buyers. I absolutely relished the task of picking every tile, color, drape & painting for the walls. Nothing gives me more pleasure than going to some flea market or open air arts festival & finding knick knacks that I decorate my home with. I feel like set design would be a great deal of fun and a likely extension of my passion & skills. So if I don't get to act, I still get to be on set & surround myself with my kind of people. 

Thank you Nandini for giving me the opportunity to cut my teeth on your clever & thought provoking project. All the very best !!

Sahara Staicu is a film student at West Los Angeles College under the Set Dressing Pathway. She has recently become a candidate for the Hollywood CPR program which is a huge goal for her as she is working towards becoming an IATSE Local 44 union member. Coming from a multicultural background, she has always enjoyed learning about different countries and customs, which have also transpired into her work style. Having visited more than 8 countries by the age of 18 has really inspired her work on film sets and the Art Department. Watching the Harry Potter films growing up was the start of her ever-growing interest in the film industry and continues to be her favorite series of all time. Although she's a rookie, she has gained tons of on-set experience in just the 2 months that she has begun to work and is excited to continue learning and meeting new people.

Starting at four years old, Lynnette began traveling the country as an actor and performer raising civil rights awareness with Mamie Till Mobley, mother of the slain Emmett Till. This icon taught her the power of activism through storytelling and the importance of love in the face of hate. These lessons have burned passionately in everything Lynnette undertakes, from volunteerism to work in the entertainment industry -- a field in which she considers herself a lifelong learner. 

She's worked as a production assistant in the office and behind the camera, learning the trade on projects for the Travel Channel, the National Association of Television Program Executives (NATPE), The Africa Channel, and The Emmys to name a few! As a performer, she has shared a stage with Eartha Kitt, and Halle Berry (even bringing the latter to tears), performed at The Kennedy Center, been featured in events for history-making campaign trails, and shifted from behind the camera to the front of it to lend her image to several of Hollywood's movies and TV shows, counting Grey's Anatomy and Abbott Elementary as some of her more memorable industry experiences. 

Lynnette is currently studying Filmmaking at LACC's stellar Golden Globes endowed program to supplement her background in the arts. Through film and unique vision, she aspires to share a most enduring life lesson: the importance of empathy in communal healing.

Sreejith Nair, a Chicago-born Malayalee filmmaker who grew up obsessively studying dinosaurs, mythical creatures, horror icons, and monsters from all cultures. His dream as a filmmaker was always to create monster movies, but with South Asian leads.

Sreejith is best known for making the first ever Indian dinosaur movie Rajasaur, which received international festival praise in the US and India. 

He is also a recent graduate of Make-Up Designory where he studied special effects and creature makeup. 

Quote: “Movies like Nandini’s project always excite me. It’s always encouraging to see South Asians like myself explore themes they are passionate about, while using characters who are not human. I often feel like South Asians never give themselves the chance to dive into the worlds or sci-fi or fantasy. I’ve been hearing Nandini passionately talking about this project for years, and happy that we all get to finally make it.”

Abra Kadab is a multifaceted artist living in and operating out of Los Angeles, CA. They are a recording artist, composer, actor, and social activist. Their mission is to be loud and unapologetic about commenting on injustice through their art, and highlighting their perspective as a gender fluid individual.

Abra Kadab has roughly 20 years of experience working within the music and entertainment industry. They come from a classical background and are proficient on drums, keyboards, and vocals. They were classically trained on piano beginning at age 7. At 15, they began percussion in high school band and were selected to go to the coveted Governor's School For The Arts in Murfreesboro, Tennessee to study drums and percussion under Dr. Monte Coulter. KUBIK is a musical project founded in 2016 by Abra Kadab. 

Their dark, politically charged EP "World On Fire" debuted in 2018 and was released through eRecords. Their second EP "The Empty Space" explores a profound void that humanity as a whole seems to experience, and was released in 2022. They are currently working on two new albums. The release dates are TBA.

They have collaborated with industry legends such as Scarlet Rivera (Bob Dylan), Durga McBroom (Pink Floyd) and Rick Torres (Supreme Beings of Leisure) as well as Michael A. Levine (former Governor of the Emmy Awards). In 2016, they modeled for photographer/musician Jack Grisham (T.S.O.L) and were featured in art galleries in downtown Los Angeles. In 2016 they played keys at a welcoming home reception held in West Hollywood for the Los Angeles Rams.

Their musical compositions outside of their KUBIK project include film scores, jingles for commercial television placement, experimental/noise tracks, audio/psychodramas, hard rock, and electronica. Horror, suspense, and comedy are their specialty genres when acting in and scoring films. They are currently signed with MPath Publishing.

Chhaya Nene is an actress, director, and journalist. As an actress, she's appeared on ABC's Big Sky, General Hospital, and Speechless. In addition, you can catch her on Netflix's The OA, and BET's Sacrifice. 

As a writer/director, Nene in post production on an episode she wrote and directed for an award winning series. She also has articles published in The Washington Post, The Global Post, and Reader's Digest. 

Chhaya is never afraid of a challenge. Whether it's creating social justice focused mixed medium artwork (currently on display at 'Basecamp Dinette' in Burbank),  being trilingual (English, French, Marathi-a language of West India) or writing and performing in the South Asian version of the Vagina Monologues, she welcomes the adventure.