Art & Rot
A famous actor is cancelled for past abuse on the evening of his daughter’s performance art show.
About
About Art & Rot
Art & Rot is a 15-minute contemporary drama short film about the rehabilitative potential of art, with a focus on personal accountability behind public scandal. Cancelled abusers can take a hiatus from everyone except those they’re closest to; how do these relationships spark meaningful change?
The Story
ROLAND THOMAS is a lauded veteran actor that has just been outed for sexual abuse. Hoping to find favor in the eyes of his daughter, performance artist SARINA PILNOVSKY, Roland attends the showing of her new piece happening the same evening as his fall from grace.
After Sarina gives a visceral performance critiquing the very type of abuse her father perpetuated, Roland visits Sarina in her dressing room where, instead of absolution, a confrontation ensues. Sarina challenges Roland to take accountability for exploiting his power and figure out how to remain an artist without it.
The Team
Production Status
We are currently in the process of casting, crewing, choreographing, and location scouting. We will begin cast rehearsals in January 2026 and conduct camera tests and a theater tech rehearsal before principal photography in February 2026. Art & Rot will then begin the post-production phase, and enter the independent film festival circuit in the summer of 2026 before being released online for free digital viewership.
The Fundraising Goal
Our goal is to raise $6,275 for essential production, post-production, and distribution costs.
- Production: 66% (Transportation, Legal, Production Office Supplies, Petty Cash)
- Post-Production: 13% (V.O. Cast, Editing Facilities, Hard Drives, Score)
- Distribution: 21% (Marketing, Festival Entry Fees)
We will continue to raise funds for post-production, distribution, and marketing initiatives.
Perks of Donating to Art & Rot
- Up to $50: Art & Rot Reading List
- $50: All of the above + Social Media Callout
- $100: All of the above + Special Thanks in Film Credits
- $200: All of the above + Link to the Film and Soundtrack MP3
- $500: All of the above + Associate Producer in Film Credits
- $1,000: All of the above + Executive Producer in Film Credits
Connect with Us!
Contact us: artandrot@gmail.com
Keep up with Art & Rot on Instagram: @artandrotshortfilm