GOUGE
Support Gouge, a female-led horror short that digs into envy, identity as performance, and the desperate need to be seen.
Shooting July 2026
SUPPORT THE FILM
This page is for anyone who wants to support the film and help bring it to life. Contributions go directly to the film, without platform fees.
After donating, please fill out this quick form so we can send your perks.
See below for more info on the film and donation perks.
Contributions are not tax-deductible.
THE FILM
A sorority girl’s attempt to flip an old mirror for quick cash unleashes a demon that hijacks her identity.
THE HOOK
Gouge sheds light on the entitlement and violence that breeds from constant comparison. In a world ruled by social media, identity equals performance, and worth is always filtered through someone else's reflection. Gouge exposes just how razor thin the line between admiration and hate really is.
THE MYTH BEHIND THE MIRROR
The Greek myth of Lamia, a beautiful queen turned into a monstrous demon by a jealous Hera, parallels our demon’s backstory. Lamia, who was cursed to prey on children and forever remain a grotesque figure, embodies the film’s themes of envy and vengeance. Versions of Lamia’s myth suggest either Hera gouged out her eyes, or Lamia gouged them out from grief. Some versions say she could pluck out her eyes and pop them back in.
In my version, Lamia has been locked away in this mirror for centuries, until a mirror selfie breaks the barrier and sets her free. In my version, Lamia is able to shapeshift only if she possesses her victims’ eyes. If she thinks you're gross, tacky, weird, have bad taste, you die. If she thinks you’re cool, she wants to steal your life. Sometimes she thinks both things at once. The duality of woman.
THE VISION
Brutal and visceral, driven by tension, cut with humor, and unexpectedly endearing.
ART
Creature design/practical special FX + Production design, key props, and wardrobe/makeup
Through clever framing and controlled glimpses of the creature, utilizing the director's own experience with production design, hiring an experienced special fx makeup artist, and hunting through clearance and thrift stores, we'll keep costs low without sacrificing style and impact.
CAST/CREW
Cast/Crew stipends + Meals
We’re building a small but mighty crew of mostly volunteers. This portion of the budget prioritizes the roles that make or break a film (sound, lighting, and our lead and supporting actors), while also ensuring the team is properly fed with real meals that keep everyone going throughout the shoot.
EQUIPMENT
Equipment rentals
This portion goes toward our core equipment rentals (camera, lighting, and grip) to ensure we have the right tools to capture the performances and visuals as intended.
POST
Post Production costs + Festival fees
Post production costs are kept low by utilizing the director’s professional experience as an editor, along with a network of collaborators contributing across composing, sound design, and color. Remaining funds will be used to compensate these contributors, with any additional funds allocated to festival fees.
WHERE
your
MONEY
GOES
WHAT YOU GET
Support the film at any level. Each tier includes exclusive perks as a thank you for helping bring Gouge to life.
THE PLEDGE: $10-$99
Supporters at this level will receive a name in the credits, a digital thank you card, and an early screener link to the film.
ONE OF US: $100-$199
Includes everything in the previous tier, plus a physical thank you card and a custom digital sorority bid*
*you'll be placed into one of the 4 sororities in the Gouge cinematic universe, based on your vibe
MIRROR MIRROR: $200-$499
Includes everything in previous tiers, plus a Gouge themed sticker pack.
EYE CANDY: $500-$999
Includes everything in previous tiers, plus an Associate Producer credit, an eyeball keychain, and a signed mini-poster.
EXECUTIVE INFLUENCER: $1000+
Includes everything in previous tiers, along with an Executive Producer credit, an "I'm Literally Just A Demon" T-shirt, Nessa's eyeball in a glam keepsake box, and either a comped festival premiere ticket (if able to attend) or a signed/framed official poster featuring the festival premiere laurel.
All physical perks are expected to be shipped by the end of 2026 or early 2027.