Open Roles for "Silent Scars" Short Film
Silent Scars is a psychological drama that follows Kendall, a bright yet deeply insecure college student, entering her first serious relationship with Trey, a charming young man who gives her the affection she’s longed for. Afraid to lose him, Kendall ignores subtle shifts as his unresolved trauma surfaces. What begins as comfort slowly turns into manipulation and moments of violence. Torn between love and fear, Kendall struggles to find her voice in a relationship where she feels small and unseen. The film explores the emotional complexity of abuse, the difficulty of speaking up, and the pressures of identity and belonging as a Black woman navigating isolating spaces. Additional Info: Deferred pay/stipend project pending grant/crowdfunding. Goal: stipends for cast/crew. Includes IMDb credit, reel footage, film copy, and meals. Atlanta local hires only; no travel/lodging.
9 role s
A kind but insecure college student who longs to feel seen and valued. Soft-spoken yet emotionally deep, Kendall hides quiet strength beneath her self-doubt. Craving love and validation, she becomes vulnerable to manipulation in her first serious relationship, gradually losing her confidence and sense of self. Requires a strong emotional range, vulnerability, and the ability to portray trauma in intense, dramatic scenes. Crying on cue is a plus but not required.
Charming, attentive, and charismatic on the surface, but deeply controlling and emotionally volatile underneath. Trey uses affection, guilt, and manipulation to maintain power in his relationship with Kendall. He is shaped by childhood trauma, having witnessed abuse growing up, and struggles with unresolved anger and fear of abandonment. (Actor must balance charm and menace. This role requires emotional depth, not a one-dimensional villain)
Energetic, goofy, and lighthearted. Mike brings comic relief but is also kind-hearted and observant beneath the surface. He genuinely cares about Kendall and subtly harbors a quiet crush on her.
A sharp-tongued, judgmental member of the friend group who masks insecurity with mean-spirited humor. Often targets others to elevate herself. She is the outgoing, socially dominant queen bee of her college sophomore circle who thrives on attention. A fake friend to Kendall, Mandy’s charm is performative, used to maintain control and power.
Kendall's protective older brother. Calm, grounded, and dependable. Malik is intuitive and cares deeply about his sister, though he isn't immediately aware of what she's going through.
Mandy’s partner-in-crime. Equally judgmental and immature, often encouraging negative behavior within the group. She is a devoted follower of Mandy, mirroring her behavior and opinions to stay relevant and liked. Insecure beneath her confidence, Stella constantly measures her worth by attention and popularity.
Trey’s mother is a victim of domestic abuse. Appears in flashbacks. Crying on cue is a plus but not required.
Trey’s abusive father, seen in flashbacks. Represents the cycle of violence that influences Trey’s behavior.
Seeking background actors to portray college students in various campus settings, including the library, classroom, and social environments. Must be able to take direction well and maintain continuity across takes.
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