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A Statement from the Director
As a horror film aficionado, who has probably seen more than a thousand different horror films, WERE is a film that I have been ideating and passionate about creating for a long time. In my mind, this film combines my perspective of all the most important elements of a great horror film: visual metaphor, social commentary, irreverent humor, and a resonating ephemeral fear that stands to endlessly and repeatedly haunt you as it returns to visit you in the night, when you think you are safest.
The beginning of my own vision for a Cinematic Horror Universe that serves as satire for the everyday horrors that we encounter; I hope to one day expand this short film into a full feature, and perhaps even a full universe of wicked stories to tell. I believe until we all can face the silver mirror that darkly reflects the woes of society that we will not know freedom from fear, and to face that mirror we must start a conversation. That’s what I want to create with my film: a conversation starter, because when conversations start, bonds form and we are able to come together and understand one another more deeply and more intimately, which is a sentiment I think the world could use more than ever right now. We must first acknowledge the shadows in our midst before we can shine a light on them, and show that the shadows are not something we should fear. You cannot shine a light on that which is already bright. That is why the shadows intrigue me, and why I tell stories about what happens in them.
This is a film that explores themes of identity, masculinity, femininity, and confronting generational trauma. It may make some people uncomfortable. A sign of growth, in my opinion, as we ever so rarely experience extreme growth from places of comfort. I hope my film can touch other young black men such as myself, and inspire them to be great, as well as anyone else with a voice that goes unheard.
At it's core, WERE is a psychological horror, dark rom-com about a man on a first date… who wakes up the next morning convinced that he’s killed her.
...and it's also a werewolf film.
WHY WE NEED YOU 🫵
Though many of the resources of this film have been made available to our team as film students of DePaul University's School of Cinematic Arts, there are still a number of real and tangible costs that create a barrier between our current state and arriving at where we need to be to make the world of this film a reality.
We have formulated a strict and tight budget that we hope will carry us to the finish line over the course of our planned 3-day filming period. Your supporting contributions go towards designing the production elements necessary to build the world of WERE, as well as creating the special and visual effects inherent to the nature of the story of the film, and feeding our hardworking crew over the course of what will be three arduous 12 hour days.
Any and all support that can be provided is appreciated! Thank you so very much!
-Eric
Perks
Highlights
See all activity5Our Team
ERIC SEXTON - Director
Eric is a Chicago-based director, producer, writer, and self-proclaimed horror film expert. Having worked in nearly every role on set, he brings a hands-on, collaborative approach to filmmaking and a deep respect for the strange, emotional power of genre storytelling. With WERE, a story he has been developing for years, Eric steps fully into the role of writer-director to bring one of his most personal projects to life. The film marks a major creative milestone and the beginning of a new chapter in his filmmaking career.
PAIGE DESIMONE - Director of Photography
Paige is a Chicago-based cinematographer who crafts visually compelling stories through light, composition, and movement. Inspired by films that explore the human condition, she brings a thoughtful, intentional approach to each frame. Her work spans character-driven shorts and documentaries, balancing realism with striking visuals to create immersive storytelling.
JOSH BEAL - Producer
Josh has been producing for years now, but always find himself having the most fun on horror related scripts. Throughout his time in college, he has worked on dozens of different projects with topics ranging across many themes. When Eric gave him the script, he felt an immediate interest in helping bring the story to life. He is very excited to assist Eric in this process!
The Cast
Justus Hightower
Justus Hightower is a multi-faceted creative with experience in
many artistic avenues. Before stepping into film and theatre, he
spent 10 years as a musician, performing at the highest level and
even touring in Japan. In 2018, he transitioned to acting, earning
his degree from Columbia College Chicago in 2022. Along the way, he
gained experience in all aspects of filmmaking—including writing,
directing, and camera operation—using those skills as a stepping
stone to refine his craft as an actor. He has since starred in
multiple award-winning independent films and shorts, with television
credits including Chicago Fire, Chicago Med, and TheChi. His theatre
work includes "For Colored Boys", "The Circle",
and "The 4th Wall".
Cheterra McCray
Cheterra
McCray is an actress and filmmaker known for her compelling
performances across independent film and digital media. With a
growing body of work that spans short films, web series, and
feature-length productions, she continues to establish herself as a
dynamic creative voice in entertainment. She has appeared in several
short films, including Socks on Concrete, Bury It, and Innocent
Looks, and is currently featured in the web series District 35. Her
feature film credits include Puzzled Literature and Hyde Out. In
addition to acting, Cheterra created her own film, Common Ground,
which is available to stream on Tubi and Prime Video.
Cheterra
McCray is an actress and filmmaker known for her compelling
performances across independent film and digital media. With a
growing body of work that spans short films, web series, and
feature-length productions, she continues to establish herself as a
dynamic creative voice in entertainment. She has appeared in several
short films, including Socks on Concrete, Bury It, and Innocent
Looks, and is currently featured in the web series District 35. Her
feature film credits include Puzzled Literature and Hyde Out. In
addition to acting, Cheterra created her own film, Common Ground,
which is available to stream on Tubi and Prime Video.Activity
