Set in 1965 South Central, the film follows Mayra, a young girl coming of age amidst a turbulent social and political backdrop where she and her mother grapple with what it means to grow up. Hair is at the center of this struggle, not where Mayra finds her voice, but where mother and daughter face the reality of change. For Black girls, hair—twists, beads, braids—is a cultural marker of girlhood, and in the film, it becomes a symbol of transformation just like a butterfly. As Mayra’s mother learns to let go, Mayra transforms. Donny, Mayra’s confidant and brother, brings moments of joy, but as Donny is sent away, Mayra and her mother are forced to confront the space between them. In the end, the film is a deeply personal reflection, capturing the delicate shift between being a child and becoming a woman.
We plan to begin shooting this film in early July, and we aim to have all support locked in by then. Visually, the film will be intimate and close to the characters, seen through Mayra’s eyes, bright, curious, and full of small freedoms. Drawing inspiration from films like The Florida Project, Crooklyn, and Lady Bird, we will capture that childlike wonder even against a challenging backdrop. The cinematography will stay close, lingering on braiding scenes, intricate moments of hair care, and the tactile details of the period. The look will be authentic to 1965, letting the era breathe naturally in every frame. Overall, we’re crafting a visual world that is both historical and deeply personal, grounded in Mayra’s perspective.
OUR OVERALL GOAL:
35,000
This is where Butterfly-Shaped Beads lives or dies. Recreating a 1965 South Central household with period-accurate furniture, fabrics, wallpaper, and props; capturing the specific textures of Black domestic life in that era, is the single most important investment in this film. Think the warm, cluttered interiors of Claudine, the vibrant street life of Crooklyn. That world doesn't build itself.
As a production designer myself, accurately capturing both the period and the emotional core of this space is really important to me. I’m interested in building a contrast between the tense social/political climate and the colorful world Mayra experiences.
Our production designer and art director will build out each of these spaces with attention to period-accurate furniture, vehicles, textures, and props—making sure every environment feels lived in and true to the period.
Donations will help support the materials, sourcing, and labor needed to fully realize this world.
This is a period film set in 1965 South Central Los Angeles, made by a small, dedicated team with a big vision. Every dollar goes directly into building the world of this story and telling it with the craft it deserves. Here is exactly where your support goes:
OUR GOAL:
10,000
I think about clothing as a reflection of who these characters are and who they are expected to be.
At school, I see bell-bottoms, denim sets, A-line skirts, ankle socks, and worn shoes. Boys in short-sleeve button-downs, slacks, and simple sneakers. Fabrics are faded, slightly imperfect, and lived in. Nothing feels new.
At home, Mayra is more controlled. Pressed Sunday dresses, cardigans, clean lines. Her mother values presentation and being put together at all times.
At the diner, her mother wears a uniform. Apron, sensible shoes, hair set, always neat. The wardrobe and space work together to place us in the 60s.
Donations support sourcing, tailoring, and aging all wardrobe so it feels accurate, specific, and real.
OUR GOAL: 3,000
OUR GOAL: 3,000
My mom, circa 1974.
There’s a certain magic in the ritual of doing hair, one that’s passed down from mother to daughter. In South Central L.A. in 1965, Mayra sits on the floor while Leanne carefully twists each strand, choosing colorful beads and barrettes that gleam. These aren’t just decorations, they’re stories, carried in every soft click of plastic against plastic. It’s a moment of care and closeness, where the noise of the outside world fades, and all that remains is the quiet bond between them.
For Mayra and Leanne, hair is more than style; it’s an inheritance. The warmth of a hot comb in the morning, the patience of nighttime twists, the bright beads catching the light at sunrise, these are the moments where Mayra feels most seen. In the film, hair becomes their language, a space where love is expressed without needing to be said. Your support helps bring these intimate, generational rituals to life with the care and authenticity they deserve.
My mom on the left, my cousin Cherie on the right, circa 1977.
My great grandma Sally, circa 1945.
My great grandma Sally, circa 1945.
On the left, Cousin Cherie, on the right my mom, circa 1978.
I imagine the camera staying close to Mayra. I’m drawn to small moments; faces, hands, textures. I want the camera to feel observant and patient, grounded in her perspective.
I plan to use lighting and lenses that create a softer, natural image while still feeling intentional. Donations will support the equipment and crew needed to bring this vision to life.
OUR GOAL: 15,000
One of my biggest priorities is making sure my cast and crew are well taken care of. That means providing meals, snacks, and water throughout long shoot days so everyone can stay focused and supported. Donations here go directly toward feeding our team.
Thinking about everything that moves behind the scenes, providing comfortable transportation for crew members, equipment, wardrobe, and props between locations, is significantly important.
We are also looking to source period-accurate cars, and need to properly store these vehicles.
Donations will support vehicle rentals, transportation, and keeping the production running smoothly.
OUR GOAL: 6,000
This would make our DP very happy!!!
After we wrap filming, the real magic happens in post-production. This is where every scene is carefully crafted through editing, sound design, and color grading into the story we’ve been dreaming of. Your support makes this possible. Every dollar helps us fine-tune each frame and bring our vision to life so that in the end, we have a film we’re all proud to share.
Writer and director Sydney Omara was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. She is dedicated to crafting character-driven narratives that amplify the voices of underrepresented individuals within the African-American community.
Her work delves into themes of identity, resilience, and the complexities of Black life, going beyond surface-level representation to explore deeper, more personal truths. Inspired by her own experiences and the storytellers who paved the way before her, Sydney strives to challenge conventional narratives and bring fresh, authentic perspectives to the screen.
Currently pursuing her MFA in Film and Television Production at the University of Southern California, she continues to refine her craft, collaborating with fellow filmmakers to create thought-provoking, emotionally resonant stories. With a commitment to pushing the boundaries of Black cinema, Sydney is dedicated to telling the stories that need to be seen and heard.
Jonathan Rivera is an MFA candidate in Film and Television Production at the University of Southern California and a writer-producer from New York. His work focuses on character-driven storytelling across multiple genres, exploring identity, power, and psychological conflict while blending emotional depth with high-concept ideas. As a writer-producer, Jonathan is interested in shepherding projects from concept to completion, collaborating across departments to bring bold, resonant stories to life for film and television.
Originally from Hollywood, Florida, Kendyl moved to Los Angeles at age 10 to pursue acting and dance, experiences that continue to inform her approach to performance and storytelling. Kendyl’s work is rooted in character-driven narratives that explore human connection across mediums, including film & performance.
Through her work, Kendyl seeks to challenge perspectives and contribute to meaningful cultural conversations, with the goal of creating lasting impact through her storytelling; one film at a time.
Born and raised in Beijing, Mona began her education in the United States, moving from New York City to Los Angeles to continue her studies as a filmmaker at USC’s School of Cinematic Arts. Over the years, she has developed into a dynamic producer with a strong foundation in narrative development, creative collaboration, and multidisciplinary storytelling. Her work centers on intimate human stories, cross-cultural identity, and emerging voices.
To capture the essence of 1965, we need authentic locations—an era-appropriate home, a classic diner, and even safely blocking off streets to set the scene. Funds will ensure we secure these locations and all necessary permits, allowing us to bring the film’s world to life exactly as it should be, fully immersive, believable, and true to the story we’re telling.
Emma is a filmmaker currently pursuing an MFA in Film and Television Production at USC. Her work spans short film, podcast, and documentary series, and her projects have earned recognition from the USC Asian Pacific Film Festival, the Signal Awards, and the Berlin Women Cinema Festival. She is currently on staff at USC's Media Institute for Social Change, where she organized the institute's inaugural film festival.
KJ is a writer/director born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Cinema, Television, and Emerging Media Studies from Morehouse College. He’s currently pursuing his Master of Fine Arts in Film & Television Production from the University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts.
KJ enjoys the kinds of stories that provoke thought and draw out emotion in the audience because he believes that film is meant to leave us with something once the screen fades to black. In everything that KJ works on, he strives to create something meaningful, which led him to wanting to be a part of the Butterfly Shaped Beads team with his close friend, Sydney Omara.
Erin Caesar is a Caribbean-American actress working in film, TV, voiceover and theater. She is a graduate of the University of Southern California, with a deep love for comedy and coming-of-age stories, and projects that center the black experience. She is so excited to step onto the casting side for the first time with this awesome team! P.S. She will also gladly talk your ear off about ice cream if you let her.
Behind this film is a small but dedicated team of passionate artists, storytellers, and collaborators united by a shared vision. Through their creativity, talent, and commitment, they are working together to bring Butterfly-Shaped Beads to life with authenticity and heart. I am endlessly grateful for their commitment.
Born in Beijing, China and raised in the United States, Jiahang Su is a cinematographer drawn to stories rooted in the human condition. His work centers on character; capturing quiet moments, emotional depth, and the subtle complexities that make us feel seen. With an eye for intimacy and atmosphere, Jiahung approaches each project with the intention of creating images that resonate, linger, and invite empathy.
Elise Frances Garner is a production designer and filmmaker from Memphis, Tennessee, known for creating visually driven worlds that support character and story. With a background in film studies, she designs with a storyteller’s eye, using color, texture, and environment to build cohesive and emotionally resonant visual languages.She earned her undergraduate degree in Film Studies from the University of Colorado, and completed her MFA in Film and Television Production at the University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts. Over a three-year span, she has production designed over 17 short films and one feature, working across a range of genres and styles.
Gracie Wente is an actress, production designer & recently became a producer! she likes to stay busy & do as much as she possibly can on set & off. bringing authentic stories to life is the only thing she wants to do forever & is very excited for the opportunity to build the world for this film!
Robyn Nelson is an editor, born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. After graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from North Carolina A&T State University, she is pursuing an MFA in Film and Television Production at the University of Southern California. Robyn strives to play a pivotal role in telling stories that uplift marginalized communities, highlighting the complexities of their experiences and handling their stories with care.
Jahaad Shairi is a filmmaker from Rochester, New York, and a current MFA candidate at the USC School of Cinematic Arts. His work explores identity, perception, and emotional interiority through visually driven, experiential storytelling. As a Yemeni and African American artist, Jahaad draws from a perspective shaped by navigating multiple identities. His work aims to place audiences within the emotional and psychological point of view of his subjects, prioritizing feeling and immersion over exposition. With a strong focus on visual language and editing, he is interested in creating work that resonates on a subconscious level and expands how stories about identity and lived experience are told on screen.
Born and raised in the Bay Area, Leilani is a passionate beauty professional and assists makeup artists who love helping people feel confident and empowered through makeup. With experience working with Viseart Paris Professional Makeup, she has developed a strong foundation in professional artistry, product knowledge, and client engagement. Leilani enjoys supporting creative teams, bringing beauty visions to life, and enhancing each client's natural features with a personalized approach. Known for her positive energy, attention to detail, and genuine love for the beauty industry, she is committed to continuously growing her craft.
Kaili Lateef is a multi-faceted artist, from Los Angeles, currently pursuing her MA in Clinical Psychology at Pepperdine University! She learned to braid at a young age, practicing on herself and friends and began officially taking clients in 2023! Her brand “kailibraidshair” focuses on styles for young girls, with the purpose of building confidence and displaying hair as art! Through her work, Kaili applies her experience in the mental health field to uplift the youth one style at a time!
ADANZE is a composer and music contractor based in Los Angeles, specializing in film, television, and multimedia scoring. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music from the University of North Texas and a Master of Music in Screen Scoring from the University of Southern California. Drawing on her experience as both a composer and performer, ADANZE creates emotionally resonant scores that enhance storytelling across a range of visual media. In addition to her work as a composer, she collaborates with filmmakers, musicians, and creative teams to bring projects to life through thoughtful musical direction and production.
Fatiah was born in Nigeria and raised between Lagos, Houston, and Austin, experiences that shaped her multicultural perspective and creative voice. She later moved to Los Angeles to pursue Costume Design at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM). Through her work, Fatiah aims to tell stories that have often been overlooked or underrepresented throughout history, while also exploring the possibilities of costume as a tool for character development in fantastical, speculative, and futuristic worlds. Her designs seek to bridge the past and the imagined future, creating visually compelling narratives that expand how audiences see themselves and others.
Thank you for taking the time to be a part of this journey as we seek to bring this film to life. Every donation makes a real impact in supporting this vision. For larger contributions, we offer fiscal sponsorship options: you can donate directly through our director, or if you would like the option of making a tax-deductible donation, you can donate to the film through USC, a recognized charitable organization. Additionally, many companies offer matching donations. Click the button below to see the list of employers that match contributions. A QR code is also linked here to donate directly to the film. If any other information is needed for donations, please feel free to reach out to our director directly.
Contact Information/Zelle
:(224)-688-8552
Venmo: @butterflyshapedbeads
