Second Skin

“Annie Duynhoven has woven a spellbinding peek into a not too distant future where the promise of cosmetic youth and vitality is amplified to one of youthful immortality.  Annie, and her co-producer Dwayne Kyle have utilised a refined pallet of tools through choreography, sound and beautiful cinematography to paint an abstract yet powerful idea into her teaser with the promise of a highly compelling and cinematic sci-fi storytelling experience still to come in the future.  I wish them well with their early exploration into the film industry and we look forward to seeing them working in the medium that they obviously love so much.”

-Richard Taylor, Wētā Workshop

THE PROJECT:

In a future where the wealthy never age, two friends’ lives are turned upside down after they sneak into an exclusive club. One struggles to find her place, while the other blends in effortlessly.

THE FILM:

In a dystopian future where the anti-aging cosmetic brand "Jeunesse" reigns supreme, its miracle ingredient—youthful blood—fuels society's obsession with eternal beauty. By 2070, the world has transformed, with age becoming a carefully curated illusion. Marnie, a bright-eyed 24-year-old, ventures into the exclusive Club 55, where only those aged 55 and above are allowed. Armed with a fake ID and coaxed by her friend Ivy, Marnie navigates a surreal world where the rich and powerful pay exorbitant prices, not in money, but in the blood of the young. As Marnie delves deeper into the club's twisted underworld, she discovers the dark reality behind the pursuit of eternal youth and faces a moral dilemma that could cost her more than she bargained for.

THE THEME:

“Second Skin” is a love letter to women.

Growing up, women are instilled by society, “you’re nothing unless you’re young and beautiful”. This key motif is embodied in the character of Marnie, who mirrors the unrealistic beauty standards imposed on women today—a world where Keanu Reeves is celebrated for dating a woman his age, underpinning the double standards society places between men and women. We’ve grown desensitized to derogatory remarks targeting women’s appearances, with industries like Botox, Plastic Surgery, and Beauty Marketing almost entirely focused on them. From a young age, we’re conditioned to believe in a narrow definition of ‘beauty’.

With this theme at its core, “Second Skin” takes you on a journey into a near-future where wealth is synonymous with eternal youth. Marnie and her best friend Ivy sneak into a restricted club, only to discover that the reality beneath the surface is far from what they imagined. Their eyes are opened to a world where beauty is sometimes just skin-deep.

THE TEAM: 

• Writer - Annie Duynhoven
• Director - Dwayne Kyle
• Producers - Annie Duynhoven & Dwayne Kyle
• Director of Photography - Isaac Newcombe
• 1st AC - Aidan Burridge
• Stills - Arneth Murania
• Production Assistant - Audee Halim
• Production Assistant - Will Duynhoven
• Editor - Sean Yew
• Cast - Tatum Warren-Ngata & Annie Duynhoven 

THE ASK:

We are hoping to raise $7,500 NZD to complete the 4 days of principle photography on this film.

The $7,500 will go towards but not limited to; 

• Location Costs
• Specialist Props
• Hair and Makeup
• Catering on Set
• Gear Rental
• And Koha for Cast and Crew Involvement 

This journey has taken over 9 years to get to this stage. From humble ideas back in 2015, through to proof of project in late 2022, this project has well and truly been “In Progress.” And we can’t do this without you! Your support is not only a contribution to our short, but will reflect your support for emerging filmmakers. 

We’d also love to offer a special preview screening for all those who help donate, so please if you’d like to stay involved, follow us on our socials, websites, and also leave your name on the donation.  

WHY US?:

In Progress Productions, the team behind "Second Skin," consists of passionate and professional filmmakers and storytellers. 

Following our last short film, "The Love & Loss of Peter Tom," we've had a successful year on the festival circuit. Taking home ‘Best Dark Comedy’ at the Goldblink Film Festival in Australia, as well as being a finalist at other prestigious events, including the Atlanta Comedy Film Festival.

Our team is dedicated to delivering a captivating short film with a unique stylistic tone, showcasing the talents of everyone involved. "Second Skin" is more than just a short film—it's a visual art piece, a glimpse into a larger world that we hope to expand into a full-length feature film someday.

Check out https://inprogressnz.com/ for more details!

Boosted is an all-or-nothing fundraising platform - if we don’t reach our target we don’t get a cent. We invite you to be a part of this meaningful project. Anything you can give is so deeply appreciated. Also all donations are eligible for 33% tax credit.

And please, share this campaign widely with your friends/whanau/community- we can’t do it without you!