Violet Butterfield: Makeup Artist for the Dead
"Violet Butterfield" weaves a captivating narrative centered around a unique protagonist—an enigmatic mortician beautician who goes beyond the ordinary realms of her profession. Set in the eerie yet alluring atmosphere of her mortuary, the story follows Violet as she anticipates a calm and uneventful evening.
However, her expectations are quickly shattered when a new client enters her macabre domain. What unfolds is a revelation that challenges conventional notions of existence and self-expression. As Violet engages with her visitor, she unveils a profound truth—some individuals believe that their truest and most authentic life can only be lived posthumously.
Through its darkly groovy aesthetic and unconventional premise, "Violet Butterfield" delves into the complexities of personal identity, the pursuit of self-actualization, and the transformative power of embracing one's true nature. It invites viewers to question societal norms and reflect on the boundaries of living an authentic life, even in the face of mortality.
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Brooke H. CellarsDirectorThe Chills, Pumpkyn, Halloween Candy. Ivy, The Chills Part 2
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Brooke H. CellarsWriterPumpkyn, The Chills, The Chills Part 2, Ivy
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Brooke H. CellarsProducer
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Madeleine YawnProducerHalloween Candy, The Chills Part 2
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Michelle ColónKey Cast"Violet Butterfield"
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Martini BearKey Cast"Shirley Temple Tantrum"
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Trevor ChapmanKey Cast"Marvin"
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Wicken TaylorKey Cast"Commercial Spokesperson"
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Levi PorterDirector of PhotographyThe Chills, Halloween Candy, Pumpkyn, The Chills Part 2
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Project Type:Short
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Runtime:12 minutes 43 seconds
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Production Budget:5,000 USD
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Country of Origin:United States
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Country of Filming:United States
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Language:English, Spanish
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Shooting Format:Super 16mm Film
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Aspect Ratio:1.66;1
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Film Color:Color
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First-time Filmmaker:No
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Student Project:No
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Southern Screen Film FestivalLafayette, Louisiana
United States
November 13, 2022
World Premiere -
Final Girls Berlin Film FestivalBerlin
Germany
February 2, 2023
European Premiere
Winner Audience Award -
Renegade Film FestivalMarietta, Ga
March 4, 2023
Best Art Direction -
Overlook Film FestivalNew Orleans, Louisiana
April 2, 2023
Audience Award, Best Short Film -
Salem Horror FestSalem, Massachusetts
April 30, 2023 -
Portland Horror FestPortland, Oregon
June 11, 2023
Abby Normal Award -
Warped Witch Film FestivalLafayette, Louisiana
United States
May 6, 2023
Special Screening -
Boomtown Music and Film FestivalBeaumont, Texas
United States
May 13, 2023
Official Selection -
Houston Horror Film FestivalHouston, Texas
United States
August 12, 2023
Official Selection (Best Director Nomination) -
Camp Horror Film FestivalMissoula, Missouri
United States
August 25, 2023
Official Selection -
GenreBlast
September 2, 2023 -
Women's Film FestivalPhiladelphia, Pa
September 22, 2023
Official Selection -
Pride Acadiana: Queer Film FestivalLafayette, Louisiana
June 3, 2023
Brooke (she/they) is an accomplished filmmaker who has received recognition for her outstanding work. Holding a BA in Moving Image Arts from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, she has established herself as a force to be reckoned with in the industry. With a focus on the horror genre, Brooke has written and directed a portfolio of seven short films, including the highly regarded "Violet Butterfield: Makeup Artist for the Dead."
Brooke's passion for horror storytelling dates back to her childhood, where she would immerse herself in writing captivating tales of terror. It was a lifelong dream of hers to become a filmmaker, but it wasn't until the age of 37 that she finally had the opportunity, support, and self-assurance to direct her first short film. Since then, she has demonstrated her versatility as a filmmaker by taking on various roles in both her own productions and others'.
Beyond her filmmaking endeavors, Brooke has made significant contributions to her community. She took the initiative to establish and independently manage Lafayette, Louisiana's first horror film festival. Moreover, her commitment to inclusivity and promoting diverse voices led her, alongside Wicken Taylor, to assume the co-chair position for the Pride Acadiana: Queer Film Festival, furthering the representation of the LGBTQ+ community in the film industry.
Our South Louisiana film team tries to promote diversity in front of as well as behind the camera. Our goal is to serve retro-inspired, unapologetic horror/comedy while bringing to the forefront those who aren’t usually recognized in the independent horror community, including women, BPOC, and the LGBTQ+ community. We pride ourselves on being a filmmaking team that is primarily fueled by women!