Tell The Story: Support my student thesis film, Sage Hen!

Hello everyone! I’m McKenna Murphy, a senior film student at Southern Utah University, and I'm thrilled to share my thesis film project, Sage Hen.

In this exhilarating coming-of-age story set in the wild west, we follow a courageous young woman who is determined to save her home from a ruthless outlaw. With the clock ticking, the stakes rising and deserpate to raise the funds needed, she finds an unexpected ally in a reclusive cowgirl, who teaches her the ropes of being an independent woman in the Wild West.

Join me on this incredible journey of friendship, bravery, and self-discovery as we bring Sage Hen to life. Together, we can create a film that honors the spirit of the West and the strength within us all!

To bring the story of Sage Hen to life on screen, I need your support! While filming has wrapped, our journey is far from over. Now, I’m diving into the exciting world of post-production, where the magic truly happens.

This crucial phase includes editing, sound design, color grading, and film scoring, all of which will elevate our film to its highest potential. Additionally, your contributions will help cover the expenses related to film festivals, where it can reach a wider audience and share our powerful story.

Every donation, no matter the amount, makes a monumental difference. Together, we can turn this vision into a stunning reality. Thank you for your support!

Help me not only complete my thesis film but also create a powerful narrative that inspires and empowers audiences. Together, we can craft a film that resonates with the themes of strength, resilience, and the beauty of the human spirit. Your support will ensure that Sage Hen reaches its full potential and touches the hearts of viewers, sparking conversations and inspiring change.

For more information about this film please visit Sage Hen Project Website

FILM SYNOPSIS:

In the late 1890s, after the death of her brother, Abigail and her mother are left alone in the harsh world of the wild west. Upon meeting the outlaw, Claude, Abigail learns they are in jeopardy of losing their home, unless she can quickly obtain enough money to pay off the debt. While on her way to sell some of her brother's belongings, she encounters Enola; a reclusive cowgirl and former friend of her brother’s, with a dangerous past. Abigail watches Enola kick out a drunken Claude from the local saloon and realizes a new way she can earn money to save her home; Abigail asks Enola to teach her how to be a cowgirl. Enola recognizes that Abigail is a talented artist and encourages her to continue that career path, however Abigail needs a quick way to earn money and is insistent upon becoming a cowgirl. Hesitantly, Enola agrees to teach Abigail the way of the cowgirl, only if she agrees to compensate her in drawings. While learning to become a cowgirl, Abigail and Enola's relationship blossoms into friendship. However, Claude is consistently on their tail harassing Abigail and threatening Enola. With Claude in constant pursuit, Abigail knows her days are numbered, but she has never felt more free.

MEET THE CAST:

Olivia Josephine Wilcox as Abigail Cravens

Olivia Josephine is a talented actress with a lifelong passion for the performing arts. From a young age, she has been drawn to the world of acting, and has dedicated herself to honing her craft. Her high school years saw her take on iconic roles such as Antigone in Shakespeare's Antigone and Liz in Murder at the Ballet, laying the groundwork for a future in the entertainment industry.

Upon entering adulthood, Olivia expanded her reach by joining the local film scene in Boise. Her film credits include performances as Andy in the short film Sick Aunt Shelly and Vanessa in the feature film Street. In addition to her work on screen, Olivia is an outdoor enthusiast who loves horseback riding, skateboarding, swimming, and hiking. When she's not pursuing her creative passions, you can find her curled up with a good book, surrounded by loved ones, or enjoying some quiet time to recharge.

With a strong foundation in her craft and a drive to succeed, Olivia is excited to share her talents with new projects and audiences alike.

Ala Lindsey as Enola Sheco

Ala Lindsey found her love for acting at an early age, starting with putting on skits and making home movies for and with her family. Her first production was a local play of The Wizard of Oz and has since been working on perfecting her craft. She made the move from Hawaii to Utah in 2022 to further her career in the industry. Her credits include a performance as Shaman in the feature film Peek-a-Boo and as Nadine in the short film Deer Hunt.

When she is back home in Hawaii her interests include canoe paddling and swimming. She also loves editing, drawing and you can always find her reading a book. She loves making people happy and hopes to spread that feeling and evoke emotion through her craft.

Dan Fowlks as Claude IMDb

Dan Fowlks was born and raised in the picturesque landscapes of Southern Utah. It was in these stunning surroundings that he developed a deep appreciation for the art of storytelling. From an early age, he exhibited a passion for cinema and a burning desire to become a part of the industry. His journey into the world of film began with his attendance at various local acting workshops and community theater where he honed his acting skills and learned the intricacies of the craft. Fowlks' talent has not gone unnoticed. His finalist position in an online Cast It talent acting competition served as a testament to his acting prowess, and he has received acclaim from both peers and critics alike. His dedication and commitment to the art soon began to pay off. One of the milestones in Dan Fowlks' career was his involvement in "West and the Ruthless," a film that he was cast in 2 weeks before shooting began and the writers and Director Nick and Lexie Trivundza were searching for the role of Chester Crow to be filled. Fowlks continued to expand his creative horizons with projects like "Happily Ever Emma," a heartwarming film. Beyond these notable projects, Dan Fowlks has also delved into writing and producing a variety of shorts and features, each showcasing his unique perspective and dedication to his craft. His dedication to storytelling, along with his ability to wear multiple hats in the filmmaking process, marks him as a creative collaborator. With a promising career filled with remarkable projects behind him and undoubtedly more on the horizon.

Carolyn Koskan as Mary Cravens IMDb

A Native Minnesotan, Carolyn (Crow) Koskan has deep ties to the blue bonnets of Texas. She loves her Austin surroundings along with her second base, Utah, hiking & biking in the majestic mountains. President of Iris Entertainment, BUSTER BROOKS feature film is her first Ex. Produced feature, a 2025 release. In 2006, she pursued her acting career, with now over 50 films, television, theatrical and commercial production credits. She toggles between producing, directing, and acting and loves each for its own, specific skill set and adventure. Ms. Koskan has a BA in Speech Communication/Journalism from the University of Minnesota. She started her career with IBM in Dallas Texas which preceded her real estate brokerage and acting career successes. "I’m curious, engaged and a great listener. I want to hear “your” story and will work to build a relationship that brings life to the project. My life is like a family tree; Each branch brings unique balance, shape, and strength, bearing fruits of love, friendship and respect.”