Hauntology

My name is Kenton and I am the Producer and Director of “Hauntology”, which is a thought-provoking short Horror film that explores the complexities of masculinity, relationships and how the past influences present day dynamics.

The Story is centred around Benjamin who must spend the night packing up his childhood bedroom in preparation to move in with girlfriend Alana. As he labours to complete the packing, he starts to lose his grip on reality and is haunted by three figures who take the form of Alana. Unaware if these figures are conjured by his mind, the task of packing up his belongings becomes gruelling.

“Hauntology” revolves around the dangers of the unspoken, and the reluctance to address distressing situations/emotions. My intention is to explore fully how unacknowledged distress can manifest itself. This is a topic which I believe can only be done from a compassionate standpoint, to fully understand the challenges of deep introspection. This level of self-reflection is often disregarded in traditional ‘masculine’ thinking and consequently men often struggle to fully confront ‘difficult’ emotions, my aim with ‘Hauntology’ is to unpack this issue from an empathetic point of view. I hope to provide an unflinching depiction of Benjamin’s internal struggle, utilising the horror genre to accurately depict how daunting and terrifying this struggle can be.

In order to fulfil our aspirations for this short film we need your support! Creating this Short film will come with its share of expenses, including production costs, equipment, location fees, and post-production work. We are passionate about bringing this powerful story to life, and we need your support to make it a reality.

Meet our team:

Kenton Howitt, Producer + Director:

This last year I have been lucky enough to follow my dream, by studying for an MA in Film Directing at Met Film School, Ealing Studios, London. The film “Hauntology” is the final step to gaining my qualification, my last MA module. I am very excited about the project and to collaborate with such experienced and talented colleagues, who share the aims and ethos of the film. However, whilst creativity is priceless, Film-making logistics are painfully expensive, and we just need some help with funds to get over the line.

Through my films I intend to explore the complexities of individuals, as well as examining ‘difficult’ and overlooked subject matters head on. I want to approach every creative endeavour with empathy and compassion.

Gonzalo Ansa, Screenwriter:

The script has been written by Gonzalo, who is a Uruguayan writer and director from Montevideo, currently based in London where he got his MA in Screenwriting. Gonzalo loves exploring different genres and morally ambiguous characters. He has made short films in his home country, where he received the Special Award at the Cine del Mar International Film Festival for his short adaptation of Ernest Hemingway’s The Killers in 2016, along with screenings of that and other works in regional festivals. He has several feature, TV and documentary projects in development in his hometown, where he also teaches film and documentary to University students.

Matthias De Oliveira, Director of Photography:

Matthias will be serving as DoP on "Hauntology". Having graduated from Westminster film school in 2018 Matthias has been working professionally in the film and TV industry for over half a decade shooting both factual and narrative work and have worked with high profile clients such as Playstation, The BBC, and Grosvenor. His passion lies in Narrative Cinematography, in particular crafting richly textured, evocative, imagery that serves the story being told and carries emotional weight.

What is the money for?

Many of the technical and creative work is done, we have a script, a location, and key members of the crew. I have worked hard to keep costs down. Funds raised will primarily go towards paying actors, extra and specialist crew, and production and set design. Donations will also cover practical costs such as transport to and from the filming location.

I will post regular updates on this page, to keep you informed of progress.

Rewards for donations:

£20 or more - You will be thanked in the credits of the film.

£300 or more - You will be listed as an Executive Producer

Anything you can give would be a massive help. Thank you for taking the time to read this and I look forward to making this important and challenging film!