"Broad Shoulders" - Seeks Talents
Broad Shoulders is an MFA Thesis Film from Columbia College Chicago. The story follows Sonny, a College Freshman, as he navigates the aftermath of a deeply personal crisis. After a stint in a psychiatric hospital, Sonny returns home in Chicago, where the city’s winter streets and familiar sights contrast the alienation he feels within himself. Haunted by the experiences of his hospital stay—where impersonal rules stripped him of music, his identity and comfort—Sonny struggles to re-adjust to life outside. The shooting dates are January 15-18 2026.
7 roles
Sophie is Sonny's mother; she is the sweetest woman in the world but doesn't quite understand the significance and weight of mental illness; she wants to care for her son but doesn't know how to help him.
Nicky is gifted at reading people. She is highly emotionally intelligent. She struggles with Bipolar and is coping with the loss of her little brother. She expresses herself and her emotions through dance. *Do you have dance experience?
Levy is a broken soul. He struggles with substance addition and impulsivity. He has lots of first-hand experience in how destructive life can be. But he's still here, giving it another shot!
This nurse is cold and unsympathetic to her patients. She follows the rules. No room for exception. She and Sonny are in conflict.
Paul leads the group therapy sessions and is a source of wisdom. He is a great listener and has seen everything: the highs and lows, the mania and depression, the sane and insane; but he remains calm, cool, and collected.
This staff member is seen during the final dance sequence. He follows the rules but is understanding and more flexible than his co-workers. He and Sonny have an important dialogue.
The Security Guard keeps careful watch over the ward. He/She has an intimidating presence.
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