Fund CRUX Short Film (2025)
Donation protected
CRUX is a powerful short film that explores grief, resilience, and the unbreakable bond of sisterhood through the lens of rock climbing. With an all-female cast and director, we aim to inspire resilience, connection, and the strength of female relationships through the power of storytelling and adventure in the heart of scenic Alabama. Written by Kelsey Risher and Madison Merkel, we are passionate about this story and need your help to bring it to life!
Six Reasons to Support CRUX-
- Empower Women in Film: CRUX features an all-female cast and a female director, pushing for stronger representation in the industry. Your support helps amplify women's voices in film.
- A Story of Strength & Resilience: This film isn’t just about rock climbing—it’s about grief, healing, and overcoming life’s hardest obstacles. Your donation helps bring this deeply personal and universal story to life.
- Support Independent Filmmaking: Indie films like CRUX rely on community-driven support to get made. Your contribution ensures that authentic, heartfelt stories make it to the screen.
- Climbing & Mental Health Awareness: Climbing is not just a sport; it’s a metaphor for emotional resilience. This film highlights how physical challenges can help navigate grief, trauma, and healing.
- Celebrating Alabama Talent & Locations: Filmed in Gadsden and Birmingham, Alabama, CRUX highlights the beauty of local landscapes while showcasing talented actors and filmmakers from the region. By donating, you’re directly supporting Southern storytelling and homegrown artistry.
- Your Support Makes the Film Possible: Every dollar raised goes directly into production, post-production, and festival submissions to share CRUX with the world. Without independent funding, this film won’t happen!
Tiered Donation Rewards for CRUX
- Under $100 - Shoutout Tier: A personalized “thank you” on social media
- $100 - Insider Access Tier: All previous rewards; A digital CRUX wallpaper (desktop & mobile)
- $250 - Climbing & Cinema Lover Tier: All previous rewards; A signed digital poster from the cast & director;
- $500 - VIP Tier: All previous rewards; A personalized “thank you” video from the cast & crew
- $1,000 - Exclusive Tier: All previous rewards; A “special thank” credit in the film
- $2,500+ -Exectuive Tier: All previous rewards; “Executive Producer” credit; A one-of-a-kind prop or memento from the set
Organizer and beneficiary
Madison Merkel
Organizer
Tuscaloosa, AL
Kelsey Risher
Beneficiary