Gogo 274
Middletown, Connecticut | Film Short
Thriller, Comedy
Gogo-274 is the perfect anecdote to your pandemic blues. Rejoin civilization by enjoying this short film all about emerging from darkness to rekindle human connection. It follows Gogo, a brave female sojourner of the apocalypse, on a seemingly routine search for fellow survivors.
Gogo 274
Middletown, Connecticut | Film Short
Thriller, Comedy
1 Campaigns | New York, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $3,264 for post-production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
35 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
Gogo-274 is the perfect anecdote to your pandemic blues. Rejoin civilization by enjoying this short film all about emerging from darkness to rekindle human connection. It follows Gogo, a brave female sojourner of the apocalypse, on a seemingly routine search for fellow survivors.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Apocolypses don't have to be angsty... some might even be charming. Sure, as the years pass, societies will collapse and eventually humanity will slip beyond the twilight. Maybe darkness will overcome all, leaving life to glimmer off shallow pools of hope, but if we end up in the ethereal rubble of civilization, one might as well poke fun at their gullible brother.
The Story:
Gogo-274 is a tale of two siblings enduring the unknown beyond end times, including each others’ affectionate petulance. While nothing is left to hold onto other than each other, they find ways to pass their time. Joe gardens and keeps them nourished, while Gogo scours the region in hopes of finding more survivors. It’s not their survival that seems hung in the balance, but their will to search.
It is this drive to form human connection that is at the heart of the film. The pandemic heightened audience reception to thematics surrounding social isolation and loneliness, so this film wishes to demonstrate the power of human connection even in the grimmest of scenarios. As Gogo arrives at the last unexplored house on her detailed map of possible occupancies, she still puts up with her anxious brother’s monologuing and brings extra rations in hopes of helping anyone in need. Depictions of ordinary familial chemistry and unwavering generosity in the face of darkness will warm even the surliest of audiences.
Your Creators:
The director, writer, and thesis creator, Forrest K Sassaman, has assembled a crack team of well trained and extremely passionate Wesleyan University filmmakers. Forrest is a senior filmmaker at Wesleyan University, veteran of the U.S. Air Force, and remarkable leader on set. From artists behind concept art to 5 interchanging grips to the security officers required for location supervision, there have been nearly 40 people involved with the making of this short film. They have all rallied behind Forrest's vision and allowed for the capturing of entirely fantastic footage.
Behind the film's stellar cinematography are Forrest’s director of photography, Jack Fessenden, who is a junior at Wesleyan University currently directing his second feature film; and the head gaffer, Kai Magee, who for the last 2 years has worked lighting design for various Chicago theater and circus productions. I mean look at these crazy test shoot set ups and how awesome our trailer is!
Why you need to wake up before we Go-Go!
Get on board early, not only because we've got a great film on our hands that you think the world needs, but also because you’ll get cool stuff! Unfortunately for his producing team, Forrest has a conscience. We've advised him against as much, but he presses on despite clear warning to avoid this path of “human decency” (whatever that means!?). As a result, he cares about rewarding you all for any support you can offer.
Ontop of the incentives seen to your right ---->
His fundraising team begun with with the creation of an apocalypse apparel clothing brand, Cardinal Underground. Executive Producer, Sam Dixon, hand silk screened 80 blank t-shirts (the ones shown under incentives) that have raised nearly a $1,000! Now, we're moving onto more shirts, stickers, and sweaters to keep building up hype for the film. So even if you don't feel like contributing to the campaign directly, you can help the project by buying anything from this site: https://bison-asparagus-dzwm.squarespace.com/merch... Look at how legit this business looks!
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The problem is keeping a set COVID safe, feeding hardworking crews, and tattering post apocalyptic costuming was expensive, so we need your support! We got all the footage we need, but the 16mm film developement process is very complex and expensive, and all the funding as been depleted capturing the footage. This is why we need your contribution! By supporting the film, and potentially getting some awesome merchandise, you will also be proving Forrest’s preference for “benevolence” right (just a warning).
SO SUPPORT GOGO-274!
Support a team of fantastic filmmakers on a journey to tell the tale of social resilience and the ever cyclical yearning for light!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
16mm Picture Mastering
Costs $1,800
Purchasing film stock
Sound Design
Costs $700
Audio for a 16mm film is a very expensive process. Magnets involved, so it's basically magic.
Marketing & Festivals
Costs $700
Making the film isn't enough, people need to see it too! We need your help to get it into the world!
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
The Crew:
Forrest K Sassaman (Writer & Director):
Forrest is a senior film major and a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. Prior to coming to Wesleyan, Forrest wrote and directed various shorts of his own, did freelance photography and directing, and worked as a cryptologic language analyst while on active duty. Born in Kona, Hawaii, he has lived in 8 states. He met his wife and frequent collaborator, Chelsea, while working as a stage actor at the Wayside Theater in Virginia. Forrest is excited to bring GoGo-274, a film about human connection in difficult times, to life.
Jack Fessenden (Director of Photography):
Jack is a junior film major from New York City. He has crewed various thesis films during his time at Wesleyan and even composes scores for his own projects. GoGo-274 was his first project as Director of Photography, a role he nailed given the challenges of shooting on film at night. After graduation, he hopes to continue writing and directing.
“I was very inspired by Forrest's passion for visual storytelling. We are like-minded filmmakers and I definitely identified with his vision right away.”
Alexa Zhang (Assistant Director):
Alexa is a sophomore Film/Economics double major and Data Analysis minor from Shenzhen, China. In addition to crewing student films, she practices Tai Chi at the Small Forest Temple in Middletown. She is interested in pursuing a career in business and film after graduation.
“I’m excited to join the experienced and professional crew as assistant director and learn all the coordinating and communicating skills. Nothing can be cooler and crazier than shooting outdoors from nightfall to dawn in November!”
Sam Dixon (Producer):
Sam is a Film and Economics double major in the class of 2022. He first got involved on GoGo 274 by fundraising nearly $1,000 selling shirts he personally designed and distributed. As producer, he was in charge of assembling the crew, securing the locations, and managing supplies. In addition to producing various Wesleyan University films, he is also the captain of the fire-spinning club.
"I wrote this Seed & Spark page, so these are all my quotes"
Kai Magee (Head Gaffer):
Kai is a senior theater major hailing from Tokyo, Japan. He concentrates in lighting design, a skill he has had the opportunity to hone in Chicago’s theater scene (most notably at the famous Lookingglass and Steppenwolf theaters). He aspires to pursue a career in lighting design or gaffing after graduation. His past work can be found at kaimageedesign.com.
“I'm excited to be working with a director who is passionate about lighting, and I hope that my expertise can help him tell a good story!”
Shuyuan Liu (Producer):
Shuyuan is a junior film major and environmental science minor who is also working towards her writing certificate. On campus, she works as an executive producer and career liaison for Cardinal Pictures, and produces and stars in various 2nd Stage theater productions. After graduation she hopes to pursue a career in which she can combine filmmaking and environmental conservation.
“I’m excited to work with a group of talented people and I think the topic of the film is really relevant to what we are experiencing during the pandemic. I like how it explores human relationship and trust and also tries to reveal the heightened sense of loneliness and isolation.”
Hunter Julo (Production Design):
Hunter Julo is a junior English and Art History double major from Kansas City. While this is her first time doing production design for a film, she has been involved in various Second Stage theater productions. After graduation, Hunter hopes to pursue her MFA in Creative Writing and career in the arts.
“I don't have a background in film, but I have been able to interpret Forrest's vision from a filmmaker's view into a set and world which feels true to the characters that we are building. This type of world-making allows for so many creative liberties, and I am really excited to work with Forrest on capturing his vision!”
Chelsea Massey (Costume)
Chelsea Massey is the wife of the director and costume designer for Gogo 274. She has a BFA in Dance and another BFA in Dance Education from Shenandoah University as well as a MFA in Dance from Sarah Lawerence College. As a dance artist and educator, Chelsea has honed various creative skills and enjoys helping assist on Forrest Sassaman’s film sets. She found designing costumes for Gogo 274 was challenging in her pursuit to develop unique personalities within each outfit and character. Collaborating with Forrest to help build his world and vision was a creative endeavor she is proud to have done. Check out her hand-knit scarf and painted trench coat in the film!
The Cast:
Olivia Crowell
Olivia Crowell is playing the lead, GoGo. Olivia is a senior film and writing student from Winston-Salem, NC. She just wrapped on her own thesis, @chromafilmwes !! In addition her film work, she is the director of triple major acappella and a member of gag reflex improv and hysterics stand up on campus.
"Stay safe out there and stay tuned for more on GoGo!"
Dustin Morris
Playing the role of Joe, is Dustin Morris! Dustin is a junior English/Film double major from Los Angeles, CA. Besides bringing the character of Joe to life, he is involved in the New Team Force improv group and the Awkward Silence comedy club. After graduation, he hopes to pursue more creative endeavors.
“I'm excited and grateful to be a part of such an awesome project!”
Marren Westgard
Playing the role of Rebecca is Maren Westgard. Maren is Dance/Psych double major in the class of 2022 from Orange, CT. On campus, she is involved in Second Stage theater and the Presentation studio and works as the hub coordinator for the Sunrise Movement Middletown chapter, which aims to mobilize youth to stop climate change. After graduation, Maren aspires to obtain a higher degree in psychology and stay involved in the arts.
“I am super excited to bring the world of the story to life, though it may not be so different from our own. The story is a reminder that connection and trust are at the center of our human experience. “
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Apocolypses don't have to be angsty... some might even be charming. Sure, as the years pass, societies will collapse and eventually humanity will slip beyond the twilight. Maybe darkness will overcome all, leaving life to glimmer off shallow pools of hope, but if we end up in the ethereal rubble of civilization, one might as well poke fun at their gullible brother.
The Story:
Gogo-274 is a tale of two siblings enduring the unknown beyond end times, including each others’ affectionate petulance. While nothing is left to hold onto other than each other, they find ways to pass their time. Joe gardens and keeps them nourished, while Gogo scours the region in hopes of finding more survivors. It’s not their survival that seems hung in the balance, but their will to search.
It is this drive to form human connection that is at the heart of the film. The pandemic heightened audience reception to thematics surrounding social isolation and loneliness, so this film wishes to demonstrate the power of human connection even in the grimmest of scenarios. As Gogo arrives at the last unexplored house on her detailed map of possible occupancies, she still puts up with her anxious brother’s monologuing and brings extra rations in hopes of helping anyone in need. Depictions of ordinary familial chemistry and unwavering generosity in the face of darkness will warm even the surliest of audiences.
Your Creators:
The director, writer, and thesis creator, Forrest K Sassaman, has assembled a crack team of well trained and extremely passionate Wesleyan University filmmakers. Forrest is a senior filmmaker at Wesleyan University, veteran of the U.S. Air Force, and remarkable leader on set. From artists behind concept art to 5 interchanging grips to the security officers required for location supervision, there have been nearly 40 people involved with the making of this short film. They have all rallied behind Forrest's vision and allowed for the capturing of entirely fantastic footage.
Behind the film's stellar cinematography are Forrest’s director of photography, Jack Fessenden, who is a junior at Wesleyan University currently directing his second feature film; and the head gaffer, Kai Magee, who for the last 2 years has worked lighting design for various Chicago theater and circus productions. I mean look at these crazy test shoot set ups and how awesome our trailer is!
Why you need to wake up before we Go-Go!
Get on board early, not only because we've got a great film on our hands that you think the world needs, but also because you’ll get cool stuff! Unfortunately for his producing team, Forrest has a conscience. We've advised him against as much, but he presses on despite clear warning to avoid this path of “human decency” (whatever that means!?). As a result, he cares about rewarding you all for any support you can offer.
Ontop of the incentives seen to your right ---->
His fundraising team begun with with the creation of an apocalypse apparel clothing brand, Cardinal Underground. Executive Producer, Sam Dixon, hand silk screened 80 blank t-shirts (the ones shown under incentives) that have raised nearly a $1,000! Now, we're moving onto more shirts, stickers, and sweaters to keep building up hype for the film. So even if you don't feel like contributing to the campaign directly, you can help the project by buying anything from this site: https://bison-asparagus-dzwm.squarespace.com/merch... Look at how legit this business looks!
The problem is keeping a set COVID safe, feeding hardworking crews, and tattering post apocalyptic costuming was expensive, so we need your support! We got all the footage we need, but the 16mm film developement process is very complex and expensive, and all the funding as been depleted capturing the footage. This is why we need your contribution! By supporting the film, and potentially getting some awesome merchandise, you will also be proving Forrest’s preference for “benevolence” right (just a warning).
SO SUPPORT GOGO-274!
Support a team of fantastic filmmakers on a journey to tell the tale of social resilience and the ever cyclical yearning for light!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
16mm Picture Mastering
Costs $1,800
Purchasing film stock
Sound Design
Costs $700
Audio for a 16mm film is a very expensive process. Magnets involved, so it's basically magic.
Marketing & Festivals
Costs $700
Making the film isn't enough, people need to see it too! We need your help to get it into the world!
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
The Crew:
Forrest K Sassaman (Writer & Director):
Forrest is a senior film major and a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. Prior to coming to Wesleyan, Forrest wrote and directed various shorts of his own, did freelance photography and directing, and worked as a cryptologic language analyst while on active duty. Born in Kona, Hawaii, he has lived in 8 states. He met his wife and frequent collaborator, Chelsea, while working as a stage actor at the Wayside Theater in Virginia. Forrest is excited to bring GoGo-274, a film about human connection in difficult times, to life.
Jack Fessenden (Director of Photography):
Jack is a junior film major from New York City. He has crewed various thesis films during his time at Wesleyan and even composes scores for his own projects. GoGo-274 was his first project as Director of Photography, a role he nailed given the challenges of shooting on film at night. After graduation, he hopes to continue writing and directing.
“I was very inspired by Forrest's passion for visual storytelling. We are like-minded filmmakers and I definitely identified with his vision right away.”
Alexa Zhang (Assistant Director):
Alexa is a sophomore Film/Economics double major and Data Analysis minor from Shenzhen, China. In addition to crewing student films, she practices Tai Chi at the Small Forest Temple in Middletown. She is interested in pursuing a career in business and film after graduation.
“I’m excited to join the experienced and professional crew as assistant director and learn all the coordinating and communicating skills. Nothing can be cooler and crazier than shooting outdoors from nightfall to dawn in November!”
Sam Dixon (Producer):
Sam is a Film and Economics double major in the class of 2022. He first got involved on GoGo 274 by fundraising nearly $1,000 selling shirts he personally designed and distributed. As producer, he was in charge of assembling the crew, securing the locations, and managing supplies. In addition to producing various Wesleyan University films, he is also the captain of the fire-spinning club.
"I wrote this Seed & Spark page, so these are all my quotes"
Kai Magee (Head Gaffer):
Kai is a senior theater major hailing from Tokyo, Japan. He concentrates in lighting design, a skill he has had the opportunity to hone in Chicago’s theater scene (most notably at the famous Lookingglass and Steppenwolf theaters). He aspires to pursue a career in lighting design or gaffing after graduation. His past work can be found at kaimageedesign.com.
“I'm excited to be working with a director who is passionate about lighting, and I hope that my expertise can help him tell a good story!”
Shuyuan Liu (Producer):
Shuyuan is a junior film major and environmental science minor who is also working towards her writing certificate. On campus, she works as an executive producer and career liaison for Cardinal Pictures, and produces and stars in various 2nd Stage theater productions. After graduation she hopes to pursue a career in which she can combine filmmaking and environmental conservation.
“I’m excited to work with a group of talented people and I think the topic of the film is really relevant to what we are experiencing during the pandemic. I like how it explores human relationship and trust and also tries to reveal the heightened sense of loneliness and isolation.”
Hunter Julo (Production Design):
Hunter Julo is a junior English and Art History double major from Kansas City. While this is her first time doing production design for a film, she has been involved in various Second Stage theater productions. After graduation, Hunter hopes to pursue her MFA in Creative Writing and career in the arts.
“I don't have a background in film, but I have been able to interpret Forrest's vision from a filmmaker's view into a set and world which feels true to the characters that we are building. This type of world-making allows for so many creative liberties, and I am really excited to work with Forrest on capturing his vision!”
Chelsea Massey (Costume)
Chelsea Massey is the wife of the director and costume designer for Gogo 274. She has a BFA in Dance and another BFA in Dance Education from Shenandoah University as well as a MFA in Dance from Sarah Lawerence College. As a dance artist and educator, Chelsea has honed various creative skills and enjoys helping assist on Forrest Sassaman’s film sets. She found designing costumes for Gogo 274 was challenging in her pursuit to develop unique personalities within each outfit and character. Collaborating with Forrest to help build his world and vision was a creative endeavor she is proud to have done. Check out her hand-knit scarf and painted trench coat in the film!
The Cast:
Olivia Crowell
Olivia Crowell is playing the lead, GoGo. Olivia is a senior film and writing student from Winston-Salem, NC. She just wrapped on her own thesis, @chromafilmwes !! In addition her film work, she is the director of triple major acappella and a member of gag reflex improv and hysterics stand up on campus.
"Stay safe out there and stay tuned for more on GoGo!"
Dustin Morris
Playing the role of Joe, is Dustin Morris! Dustin is a junior English/Film double major from Los Angeles, CA. Besides bringing the character of Joe to life, he is involved in the New Team Force improv group and the Awkward Silence comedy club. After graduation, he hopes to pursue more creative endeavors.
“I'm excited and grateful to be a part of such an awesome project!”
Marren Westgard
Playing the role of Rebecca is Maren Westgard. Maren is Dance/Psych double major in the class of 2022 from Orange, CT. On campus, she is involved in Second Stage theater and the Presentation studio and works as the hub coordinator for the Sunrise Movement Middletown chapter, which aims to mobilize youth to stop climate change. After graduation, Maren aspires to obtain a higher degree in psychology and stay involved in the arts.
“I am super excited to bring the world of the story to life, though it may not be so different from our own. The story is a reminder that connection and trust are at the center of our human experience. “