NFMLA Alumni Dalila Droege Launches ‘Beauty Night’ Kickstarter
Young teen faces a terrifying family ritual in this indie horror seeking community support
Reshmi Das has over four years of experience as a content writer, covering parenting and films. She writes for Hollywoodjunction and Momjunction. Her interest in journaling and writing made this biotechnology postgraduate to take up content as her full-time profession.
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Kickstarter Launch For ‘beauty Night’
NewFilmmakers Los Angeles (NFMLA) alumna Dalila Droege has unveiled a Kickstarter campaign for her sophomore feature, Beauty Night. Her debut film No More Time screened at NFMLA’s January 2024 festival, and now she’s turning to the crowd to back a chilling new horror story about puberty and family rites.
Beauty Night Synopsis
In Beauty Night, 12-year-old Mia experiences her first period. What begins as an innocent mother-daughter spa evening quickly descends into a haunting initiation, trapping Mia in a terrifying new role within her household. According to the campaign synopsis, “After a spa night with her Mom she’s initiated into a terrifying new role in the family.”
Droege’s film explores the anxiety and mystery that often surround puberty, blending psychological horror with evocative domestic drama. Early concept art shared in her Instagram post (https://www.instagram.com/p/DJ90l8WNGPC/) teases eerie candlelit sequences and symbolic family heirlooms.
Nfmla’s Role And Alumni Impact
NewFilmmakers Los Angeles is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to championing emerging and diverse storytellers. Founded to provide a platform for next-generation filmmakers, NFMLA hosts monthly festivals, InFocus programs, workshops, panels and networking events. In an Instagram dispatch, NFMLA described its mission: “We showcase, support, educate and build relationships for next-gen filmmakers…celebrating underrepresented voices.”
Droege joined the NFMLA ranks with her feature No More Time, which nabbed a slot in the January 2024 showcase. Her work caught the attention of festival programmers and fellow alumni, setting the stage for Beauty Night. Peer success stories—from queer comedy series to award-winning shorts—underscore NFMLA’s track record in bolstering indie creators.
Behind The Scenes With Dalila Droege
A dual major in film and psychology, Droege brings personal insight to her storytelling. On her Instagram feed, she’s shared behind-the-camera stills, mood boards and character sketches that highlight her collaborative approach with cast and crew. In past posts, she credited NFMLA panels for connecting her with producers and cinematographers who’re now on board Beauty Night.
“This film is a love letter to anyone who’s felt the awkwardness of growing up,” Droege told followers, noting that her Kickstarter rewards include virtual set tours, signed posters and an invitation to the world-premiere screening.
How To Support
Beauty Night’s Kickstarter launched with a goal to cover pre-production, practical effects and location fees. Backers can choose tiers ranging from $25 digital credits to $500 executive producer acknowledgment. The campaign page (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/beautynight/beauty-night-a-horror-film-about-puberty) outlines stretch goals for original score and festival submissions.
Droege’s initiative arrives amid a rising interest in female-driven horror—films that center on women’s bodily experiences. Community support will not only bring Beauty Night to life but also reinforce NFMLA’s mission of empowering diverse voices in cinema.
NFMLA encourages readers and former festival attendees to contribute and share the campaign. With your help, Beauty Night could join the ranks of memorable indie horrors that spark conversation long after the credits roll.
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