The Silence Between Us is an independent LGBTQ+ coming-of-age drama feature film set in present-day Portland, Maine. The film follows Aiden Howard, a 14-year-old who has spent the past year perfecting the art of invisibility after being outed by his former best friend, and Ethan Mitchell, a military kid who has moved four times in five years and has learned never to get attached. When Ethan transfers to Aiden’s high school, the two form an unexpected bond over shared isolation, indie music, and a Romeo and Juliet scene assigned in English class. As their cautious friendship deepens into something more, they face escalating hostility from Aiden’s tormentor, resistance from Ethan’s rigid military father, and their own fears about what it means to be truly seen.
The story builds toward the boys’ decision to write and perform an original scene for their school’s drama showcase—a scene about breaking silence—choosing visibility over safety in a moment that will transform both of their lives. The film is ultimately hopeful but not naive: it acknowledges that coming out can mean losing family, that courage doesn’t guarantee acceptance, but that authenticity—being known for who you actually are—is worth the risk.
The Silence Between Us will be produced by Thrive Productions with an estimated budget of $664,000 over a 25-day shoot in Portland, Maine, and surrounding areas. We are targeting the LGBTQ+ festival circuit with Frameline (San Francisco) as our premiere target, followed by a wider festival run and targeted theatrical/digital distribution through specialty distributors.
Learn More: https://thesilencebetweenusfilm.com