I was surprised and delighted to learn earlier this year a new feature project of mine called Resident was selected as a finalist for the Anarchists United Feature Film Incubator Grant. Founded by Lilly Wachowski, Anarchists United’s mission is to create opportunities that support artistry, diversity, and equity. The $20,000 Incubator Grant goes to “an elevated genre feature film proposal by writers and/or directors whose work in front of and behind the camera aims to serve narratives that further Artistry, Diversity, and Equity and uplift those from historically underserved communities.” I didn’t ultimately win this grant, but feel proud to be considered a finalist since there is only one recipient.

Resident is a suspenseful drama that tells the story of a queer artist named Moze who, running from an emotional midlife implosion, attends an artist residency in a small, Midwestern town. When local children start disappearing, suspicion quickly falls on him. To clear his name, he’ll journey down an investigative rabbit hole that will have him questioning his innocence.