Director - GRAHAM CRIBBIN
It truly has been an amazing experience directing GRISLY. This project has brought together a countless group of talented and dedicated individuals who have also poured their hearts and souls into completing this film. I personally have put my blood sweet and tears into the production as have many, many others for whom I am eternally grateful. The story appealed to me because of my personal interest in science-fiction, comic book movies, and horror films. The interesting part of this project was the main themes that could be addressed in such a short story. Good & evil, doing the right thing & duty, judging a book by its cover, light & dark, and fear & trust. Our story centers on a clandestine facility that has captured a co-ed that has mysteriously been transformed into a swamp creature or “Gill Girl” named Carolyn. She knows where her friends are hiding and only super agent Milo Finn keen senses can help get the truth. The cast of characters at the facility don’t seem to be working on Finn’s side and he realizes he must help find these other girls before more damage is done. Carolyn’s emotional journey to rediscover her humanity - physically and mentally - is the emotional backbone of our story as we bring the audience on to the side of the monster. As a fan of the horror genre I find my favorite movies to be the stories with strong characters, moving story, and a good plot. I didn’t want to do a movie that was all gore and had no heart; so in an attempt to achieve this in GRISLY, Roger Lewis, the writer, and myself worked on the story structure. We wanted to create an arc to our story where a relationship of understanding would develop between Agent Finn and Carolyn as she progressed back into a more human state. As her physical and emotional humanity continue to surface the audience quickly learns of the faculties’ dark nature.
The task was to find the right team to make this film come to life. Clint Allen and Roger Lewis, our main producers, brought the very talented Al Shriver on to DP and edit our Project. Having worked with Al on a web-series I directed, I knew we were in good hands. Roger found Leslie Simone Gibson and her team to do the make-up. Jeison Azali was brought on board to play the lead role of Agent Milo Finn and help with production and additional casting. Jaimi Paige signed on to play the role of Carolyn and Michael Laurie and J. Teddy Garces came on board to play Dr. Smalls and Sergeant Stevens while Eric Edwards agreed to play the role of Professor Lamb. The rest of our cast filled out with numerous talent individuals who gave their time and dedication to giving us an incredible cast. After securing locations, props, costumes and everything else needed for the production, we stumbled into a very talented lighting and sound expert in Stewert Hollins. Stewart played a huge role in being able to set the mood in our scenes. The lighting and musical undertones help to color the scenes that are masterfully acted by our fantastic cast.
The task was to find the right team to make this film come to life. Clint Allen and Roger Lewis, our main producers, brought the very talented Al Shriver on to DP and edit our Project. Having worked with Al on a web-series I directed, I knew we were in good hands. Roger found Leslie Simone Gibson and her team to do the make-up. Jeison Azali was brought on board to play the lead role of Agent Milo Finn and help with production and additional casting. Jaimi Paige signed on to play the role of Carolyn and Michael Laurie and J. Teddy Garces came on board to play Dr. Smalls and Sergeant Stevens while Eric Edwards agreed to play the role of Professor Lamb. The rest of our cast filled out with numerous talent individuals who gave their time and dedication to giving us an incredible cast. After securing locations, props, costumes and everything else needed for the production, we stumbled into a very talented lighting and sound expert in Stewert Hollins. Stewart played a huge role in being able to set the mood in our scenes. The lighting and musical undertones help to color the scenes that are masterfully acted by our fantastic cast.
Cast
JAIMI PAIGE - CAROLYN BRONNICKE
Jaimi Paige plays Carolyn Bronnicke, one of five innocent sorority girls who are mysteriously transformed into "Gill Girls". Since migrating to Los Angeles from Minnesota, Jaimi has played on the stages of A Noise Within Theatre (Ghosts, Great Expectations), Ruskin Group Theatre (The Collector, Jesse Boy, and The Rooming House), and the Santa Monica Playhouse (Sleeping Ugly). Other notable stage play credits include Juliet (Romeo & Juliet), Helena (A Midsummer Nights Dream), and Girl in the world premiere of Green Eyes, featured at the Tennessee Williams Theatre Festival. Jaimi's acting credits also include TV shows The Mentalist, Medium, Ghost Whisperer: The Other Side, and Diagnosis X; as well as the feature film Peacock. Jaimi is currently performing in the stage play Tender Napalm, a project of which also serves as her producing debut.
Jaimi Paige plays Carolyn Bronnicke, one of five innocent sorority girls who are mysteriously transformed into "Gill Girls". Since migrating to Los Angeles from Minnesota, Jaimi has played on the stages of A Noise Within Theatre (Ghosts, Great Expectations), Ruskin Group Theatre (The Collector, Jesse Boy, and The Rooming House), and the Santa Monica Playhouse (Sleeping Ugly). Other notable stage play credits include Juliet (Romeo & Juliet), Helena (A Midsummer Nights Dream), and Girl in the world premiere of Green Eyes, featured at the Tennessee Williams Theatre Festival. Jaimi's acting credits also include TV shows The Mentalist, Medium, Ghost Whisperer: The Other Side, and Diagnosis X; as well as the feature film Peacock. Jaimi is currently performing in the stage play Tender Napalm, a project of which also serves as her producing debut.
JEISON AZALI - AGENT MILO FINN
Jeison Azali plays the CIA Special Agent Milo Finn, who is sent down from Langley HQ to Lake Charles, Louisiana and tasked with investigating ACS/M-Division's Project Greenleaf. Prior to the Grisly film short and webseries, Jeison's previous acting credits include the feature film Caution to the Wind and the film short Fire Line. Jeison also served as a producer on the stage plays Pompeii and 5 Alarm; and as a stage manager on The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged). Jeison co-produced/created and starred in the soon-to-be released sci-fi web series titled Rogue Hunters. He is a trained actor and producing partner with Graham Cribbin under their GrayJay Films shingle. Throughout the Grisly production, Jeison managed casting as well as all SAG, WGA, and legal filings. Jeison studied the Meisner Technique at Ruskin School of Acting.
Jeison Azali plays the CIA Special Agent Milo Finn, who is sent down from Langley HQ to Lake Charles, Louisiana and tasked with investigating ACS/M-Division's Project Greenleaf. Prior to the Grisly film short and webseries, Jeison's previous acting credits include the feature film Caution to the Wind and the film short Fire Line. Jeison also served as a producer on the stage plays Pompeii and 5 Alarm; and as a stage manager on The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged). Jeison co-produced/created and starred in the soon-to-be released sci-fi web series titled Rogue Hunters. He is a trained actor and producing partner with Graham Cribbin under their GrayJay Films shingle. Throughout the Grisly production, Jeison managed casting as well as all SAG, WGA, and legal filings. Jeison studied the Meisner Technique at Ruskin School of Acting.
MICHAEL LAURIE - DIRECTOR CHRISTOPHER SMALLS
In GRISLY, Michael Laurie plays Director Christopher Smalls of ACS/M-Division - a secret black ops subsidiary of the CIA. Born on the South Coast of England and trained at R.A.D.A and Harlequin Studios, Michael had a recurring role on TVS in Gentlemen & Players and Tattoo. Michael was also a regular on the Variety Circuit as one half of the comedy duo Scott Free. Michael continued his studies at The Actors Institute in NYC and graduated from the Ruskin School in Santa Monica after studying the Meisner technique. Michael has toured the U.S. as a stand-up comic and enjoyed an extended royal theatre run on the Queen Mary as a member of the improv group, improv X-ing. A founding member of the Ruskin Group Theatre in Santa Monica, Michael is also a producer of The LA Café Plays and directed Collected Stories. His numerous theatre and indie film credits include The Fir Tree, Mitigating Factors, Night Swim, Career, The Unsinkable Titanic, Androcles and the Lion, Holiday, The King and I, Famished, Safe and Strong, and Diagnosis X on the Discovery Channel. Check out Michael's interview about his Director Smalls character here.
In GRISLY, Michael Laurie plays Director Christopher Smalls of ACS/M-Division - a secret black ops subsidiary of the CIA. Born on the South Coast of England and trained at R.A.D.A and Harlequin Studios, Michael had a recurring role on TVS in Gentlemen & Players and Tattoo. Michael was also a regular on the Variety Circuit as one half of the comedy duo Scott Free. Michael continued his studies at The Actors Institute in NYC and graduated from the Ruskin School in Santa Monica after studying the Meisner technique. Michael has toured the U.S. as a stand-up comic and enjoyed an extended royal theatre run on the Queen Mary as a member of the improv group, improv X-ing. A founding member of the Ruskin Group Theatre in Santa Monica, Michael is also a producer of The LA Café Plays and directed Collected Stories. His numerous theatre and indie film credits include The Fir Tree, Mitigating Factors, Night Swim, Career, The Unsinkable Titanic, Androcles and the Lion, Holiday, The King and I, Famished, Safe and Strong, and Diagnosis X on the Discovery Channel. Check out Michael's interview about his Director Smalls character here.
J. TEDDY GARCES - SERGEANT ALEX STEVENS
J. Teddy Garces plays Sgt. Alex Stevens, the malacious and dangerous M-Agent commander and right hand man of Dir. Smalls. J. Teddy, a native New Yorker raised in Washington Heights, moved to Los Angeles in 2005 to continue building on his acting career. His extensive television, feature film, and short film acting credits include The Sessions, Fight Night Legacy (short), The Last Blood King (short), Love Chronicles: Secrets Revealed, Mano (short), Lost Angels, Razan (short), The Picture of Dorian Gray, Sad Spanish Song, Red Passport, Friday Night Legacy, Olympia, Hollywood Heights, Sound Advice, The Guild, The Prayer Circle, College Humor Originals, Mid Life Gangster, Zane's The Jump Off, and Call Me Rico. As an actor, J. Teddy hopes to always find the gritty and very real forms of drama in a story and an acting role.
J. Teddy Garces plays Sgt. Alex Stevens, the malacious and dangerous M-Agent commander and right hand man of Dir. Smalls. J. Teddy, a native New Yorker raised in Washington Heights, moved to Los Angeles in 2005 to continue building on his acting career. His extensive television, feature film, and short film acting credits include The Sessions, Fight Night Legacy (short), The Last Blood King (short), Love Chronicles: Secrets Revealed, Mano (short), Lost Angels, Razan (short), The Picture of Dorian Gray, Sad Spanish Song, Red Passport, Friday Night Legacy, Olympia, Hollywood Heights, Sound Advice, The Guild, The Prayer Circle, College Humor Originals, Mid Life Gangster, Zane's The Jump Off, and Call Me Rico. As an actor, J. Teddy hopes to always find the gritty and very real forms of drama in a story and an acting role.
ERIC EDWARDS - PROFESSOR MATTHEW LAMB
Eric Edwards has been working as a comic/actor in Hollywood since 1991. Eric has appeared in over forty major television and films from Problem Child 2, Sgt. Bilko, National Lampoon's Senior Trip, and Blade, to his most recent appearances in Criminal Minds, Desperate Housewives, NBC's Parks and Recreation, American Dad, and The Wedding Band. Eric is mostly know for his live performances as a regular stand up comic at both the Comedy Store and Improv, as well as his critical acclaimed one man plays Calorically Challenged and Proud Of It… and most recent The Weight Is Over (which has been recently accepted to the very prestigious Reel Recovery Film Festival in Hollywood, CA and Nashville, TN). Currently his new original play, A Mixed Tape, premiered at Playhouse West in North Hollywood in November of 2010.
Eric Edwards has been working as a comic/actor in Hollywood since 1991. Eric has appeared in over forty major television and films from Problem Child 2, Sgt. Bilko, National Lampoon's Senior Trip, and Blade, to his most recent appearances in Criminal Minds, Desperate Housewives, NBC's Parks and Recreation, American Dad, and The Wedding Band. Eric is mostly know for his live performances as a regular stand up comic at both the Comedy Store and Improv, as well as his critical acclaimed one man plays Calorically Challenged and Proud Of It… and most recent The Weight Is Over (which has been recently accepted to the very prestigious Reel Recovery Film Festival in Hollywood, CA and Nashville, TN). Currently his new original play, A Mixed Tape, premiered at Playhouse West in North Hollywood in November of 2010.
MARTA MCGONAGLE CROSS - KELLY BASTOR
Marta McGonagle Cross plays Kelly Bastor - one of the "Gill Girls" being hunted by ACS/M-Agents. Marta’s film career began in Texas in the award winning independent films, Land of Shadowed Sand and SideFX. Marta then landed her breakout role in Red Ridge playing Isabella, an immigrant forced into sex slavery and prostitution. Soon after that she traveled to Costa Rica for the lead role opposite Joaquim de Almeida in Blue Sombrero as a teen who takes over her late father’s presidency with the help of a rouge military squad. In 2005, Marta moved to Los Angeles and was able to put her sketch/comedy background to use in the comedies Fist In The Eye and Twins. She landed her first television roles in Nickelodeon’s Drake & Josh, Comedy Central’s Reno 911, and as a recurring sketch player in Fox’s Talk Show with Spike Feresten. She later returned to the stage performing at the World Famous Comedy Store with the sketch troupe Gumbo. Marta recently finished filming Short Cut to Hollywood and is currently filming The Winged Man. Watch Marta discuss her role in GRISLY here and here.
Marta McGonagle Cross plays Kelly Bastor - one of the "Gill Girls" being hunted by ACS/M-Agents. Marta’s film career began in Texas in the award winning independent films, Land of Shadowed Sand and SideFX. Marta then landed her breakout role in Red Ridge playing Isabella, an immigrant forced into sex slavery and prostitution. Soon after that she traveled to Costa Rica for the lead role opposite Joaquim de Almeida in Blue Sombrero as a teen who takes over her late father’s presidency with the help of a rouge military squad. In 2005, Marta moved to Los Angeles and was able to put her sketch/comedy background to use in the comedies Fist In The Eye and Twins. She landed her first television roles in Nickelodeon’s Drake & Josh, Comedy Central’s Reno 911, and as a recurring sketch player in Fox’s Talk Show with Spike Feresten. She later returned to the stage performing at the World Famous Comedy Store with the sketch troupe Gumbo. Marta recently finished filming Short Cut to Hollywood and is currently filming The Winged Man. Watch Marta discuss her role in GRISLY here and here.
CARL GILLIARD - DOCTOR WARNER
Thesp. Producer. Director. All are multi-hyphenate Carl Gilliard. Film & Television credits include Inception, Red Eye, Coach Carter, The Mannsfield 12, House MD, 24, and most recently Rise Again. Carl Produced & Directed the NAACP nominated play "Section 8" and has appeared on stage in Ninth Wave, South Of Where We Live, The River Niger, and most recently, Waiting For The Rain to name just a few among dozens of plays. Carl is currently the Ministry Director of the FCBC Repertory Company, the drama & media team at Faithful Central Bible Church and also is Co-Creator and Program Director for the Bill Duke Media Foundation's Youth Media Camp. Follow Carl on Twitter at twitter.com/carlgilliard and on Facebook at facebook.com/carlgilliard.
Thesp. Producer. Director. All are multi-hyphenate Carl Gilliard. Film & Television credits include Inception, Red Eye, Coach Carter, The Mannsfield 12, House MD, 24, and most recently Rise Again. Carl Produced & Directed the NAACP nominated play "Section 8" and has appeared on stage in Ninth Wave, South Of Where We Live, The River Niger, and most recently, Waiting For The Rain to name just a few among dozens of plays. Carl is currently the Ministry Director of the FCBC Repertory Company, the drama & media team at Faithful Central Bible Church and also is Co-Creator and Program Director for the Bill Duke Media Foundation's Youth Media Camp. Follow Carl on Twitter at twitter.com/carlgilliard and on Facebook at facebook.com/carlgilliard.
MICHAEL MIRAULA - DOCTOR GASTON
Michael Miraula played Doctor Gaston in the Grisly film short. An actor, line producer, and jack-of-all trades industry veteran, Michael has appeared in a wide variety of theater, television, and film productions. For relaxation, enjoyment, and the occassional paycheck, Michael performs stand-up comedy and piano on a regular basis throughout the Los Angeles area. A few of his acting credits include the film shorts Anything, Greta the Cook, Buddy, and Rogue Hunters and television series appearances on Boston Legal and House MD. Outside of the entertainment industry, Michael also does occasional work as an agraphologist / hand-writing analyst - psychological profiling based on an individual's unique handwriting. Watch Michael's interview about his role in GRISLY here. You can follow Michael on Facebook at facebook.com/michaelmiraula.
Michael Miraula played Doctor Gaston in the Grisly film short. An actor, line producer, and jack-of-all trades industry veteran, Michael has appeared in a wide variety of theater, television, and film productions. For relaxation, enjoyment, and the occassional paycheck, Michael performs stand-up comedy and piano on a regular basis throughout the Los Angeles area. A few of his acting credits include the film shorts Anything, Greta the Cook, Buddy, and Rogue Hunters and television series appearances on Boston Legal and House MD. Outside of the entertainment industry, Michael also does occasional work as an agraphologist / hand-writing analyst - psychological profiling based on an individual's unique handwriting. Watch Michael's interview about his role in GRISLY here. You can follow Michael on Facebook at facebook.com/michaelmiraula.
KRISTIN GODDARD - DOCTOR CALDWELL
Kristin Goddard had a blast playing Dr. Caldwell, the new and sole female doctor in this organization, who is having to prove herself to this group of men, while experimenting on one of the most exciting findings in medical history. An Iowa native, Kristin just recently co-wrote, co-produceed and co-starred with her husband, Aaron Goddard, in their short film, Fire In The House. Kristin has also starred or co-starred in such independent films as The Hub, Maid of Horror, Outcall, Ugly, Rogue Hunters, and Irene In Time; as well as several others. Kristin recently had the opportunity to step on stage and portray the villainess, Antonia, in Shakespeare's The Tempest at the Pine Mountain Shakespeare festival, and last year had a fantastic experience working with a wonderful cast in the theater production of the play Loose. Kristin is currently writing her first feature film while studying at Gary Imhoff's, The Professional Artists Workshop. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband, their two pups, and their cat. For more information please visit Kristin's website at www.kristingoddard.com.
Kristin Goddard had a blast playing Dr. Caldwell, the new and sole female doctor in this organization, who is having to prove herself to this group of men, while experimenting on one of the most exciting findings in medical history. An Iowa native, Kristin just recently co-wrote, co-produceed and co-starred with her husband, Aaron Goddard, in their short film, Fire In The House. Kristin has also starred or co-starred in such independent films as The Hub, Maid of Horror, Outcall, Ugly, Rogue Hunters, and Irene In Time; as well as several others. Kristin recently had the opportunity to step on stage and portray the villainess, Antonia, in Shakespeare's The Tempest at the Pine Mountain Shakespeare festival, and last year had a fantastic experience working with a wonderful cast in the theater production of the play Loose. Kristin is currently writing her first feature film while studying at Gary Imhoff's, The Professional Artists Workshop. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband, their two pups, and their cat. For more information please visit Kristin's website at www.kristingoddard.com.
RENZO LEWIS - AGENT BRAD MANNING
Renzo Lewis played Agent Brad Manning in the Grisly film short. Born in Milwaukee, Renzo's childhood dream was to play professional baseball. He discovered he was a natural athlete and by twelve was the top batter in Milwaukee's Little League. Renzo migrated to boxing and in '92 was invited to the Eastern Olympic trials where he was eliminated in the final round. Renzo is an avid sports enthusiast and personal trainer. In Chicago, Renzo gained numerous clients and became well-known in fitness circles. He was repped as a fitness model by Aria Models (Chicago) and Ford (New York). Feeling something was missing in life, Renzo started taking acting lessons. He joined the Actors Group of Chicago and soon after moved to Los Angeles where he landed a role in Ocean's 13. Writing and producing as well, Renzo has dedicated his life to acting for the benefit of helping his family have the opportunities they so very much deserve.
Renzo Lewis played Agent Brad Manning in the Grisly film short. Born in Milwaukee, Renzo's childhood dream was to play professional baseball. He discovered he was a natural athlete and by twelve was the top batter in Milwaukee's Little League. Renzo migrated to boxing and in '92 was invited to the Eastern Olympic trials where he was eliminated in the final round. Renzo is an avid sports enthusiast and personal trainer. In Chicago, Renzo gained numerous clients and became well-known in fitness circles. He was repped as a fitness model by Aria Models (Chicago) and Ford (New York). Feeling something was missing in life, Renzo started taking acting lessons. He joined the Actors Group of Chicago and soon after moved to Los Angeles where he landed a role in Ocean's 13. Writing and producing as well, Renzo has dedicated his life to acting for the benefit of helping his family have the opportunities they so very much deserve.
SVEN GARRETT - M-AGENT
Sven Garrett plays one of Sgt. Stevens' three evil ACS/M-Agents in the Grisly film short. Born in Hanover Germany, Sven is a multi-talented Actor, Director, and Producer. Sven's credits include the film shorts The Avoidance of Truth (Producer, Assistant Director), The Locket (Actor), Mind Over Matter Man (Actor), Final Engagement (Actor), Murder-Set-Pieces (Photographer, Stunts), A Miami Tail (Actor), Night Shift (Actor), Summer Desire (Actor), and The Miami Chronicles (Actor). Sven's television work includes the series Chuck, The Young and the Restless, Days of Our Lives, and Travel Scams and Rip-Offs Revealed (Production Assistant). Watch Sven's interview on the GRISLY set here.
Sven Garrett plays one of Sgt. Stevens' three evil ACS/M-Agents in the Grisly film short. Born in Hanover Germany, Sven is a multi-talented Actor, Director, and Producer. Sven's credits include the film shorts The Avoidance of Truth (Producer, Assistant Director), The Locket (Actor), Mind Over Matter Man (Actor), Final Engagement (Actor), Murder-Set-Pieces (Photographer, Stunts), A Miami Tail (Actor), Night Shift (Actor), Summer Desire (Actor), and The Miami Chronicles (Actor). Sven's television work includes the series Chuck, The Young and the Restless, Days of Our Lives, and Travel Scams and Rip-Offs Revealed (Production Assistant). Watch Sven's interview on the GRISLY set here.
JAIME ZEVALLOS - M-AGENT
Jaime Zevallos plays one of Sgt. Stevens' three evil ACS/M-Agents in the Grisly film short. Jaime is an actor with vast emotional range. He was born in Peru and raised in Queens, New York; and as a teenager did not like the world of academia, but showed a strong interest in the arts. Jaime has also won numerous independent directing awards and continues to write and develop his own material. Jaime's love for Independent Cinema still motivates him today. Jaime continues to perform on Stage, TV, and Cinema looking for intelligent material he can sink his teeth into and is most proud of his stage work and small indie films most may never see, but he cherishes dearly. Jaime's numerous credits include the TV shows Sons of Anarchy, Southland, and House MD, short films Pescado Muerto and Wreck, and the feature film Love, Sex & Drugs. Watch Jaime's interview on the GRISLY set here.
Jaime Zevallos plays one of Sgt. Stevens' three evil ACS/M-Agents in the Grisly film short. Jaime is an actor with vast emotional range. He was born in Peru and raised in Queens, New York; and as a teenager did not like the world of academia, but showed a strong interest in the arts. Jaime has also won numerous independent directing awards and continues to write and develop his own material. Jaime's love for Independent Cinema still motivates him today. Jaime continues to perform on Stage, TV, and Cinema looking for intelligent material he can sink his teeth into and is most proud of his stage work and small indie films most may never see, but he cherishes dearly. Jaime's numerous credits include the TV shows Sons of Anarchy, Southland, and House MD, short films Pescado Muerto and Wreck, and the feature film Love, Sex & Drugs. Watch Jaime's interview on the GRISLY set here.
ALFREDO FERNANDEZ - M-AGENT
Alfredo Fernandez plays one of Sgt. Stevens' three evil ACS/M-Agents in the Grisly film short. Alfredo's previous acting credits include the soon-to-be-released web series Rogue Hunters, Spanish Fly (film short), and reality TV dating show La Cenicienta (Telemundo). In his spare time, Alfredo enjoys playing baseball, lifting weights, visiting his friends and family in Mexico, and attending the games of his beloved Oakland Raiders and Los Angeles Dodgers. Also an accomplished Mexican folk singer that performs throughout Los Angeles, Alfredo can be found on Facebook (as singer/musician Alfredo Fernandez) at facebook.com/alfredofernandez.
Alfredo Fernandez plays one of Sgt. Stevens' three evil ACS/M-Agents in the Grisly film short. Alfredo's previous acting credits include the soon-to-be-released web series Rogue Hunters, Spanish Fly (film short), and reality TV dating show La Cenicienta (Telemundo). In his spare time, Alfredo enjoys playing baseball, lifting weights, visiting his friends and family in Mexico, and attending the games of his beloved Oakland Raiders and Los Angeles Dodgers. Also an accomplished Mexican folk singer that performs throughout Los Angeles, Alfredo can be found on Facebook (as singer/musician Alfredo Fernandez) at facebook.com/alfredofernandez.
JAH SHAMS - ORDERLY
Jah Shams, a native of L.A., broke into the entertainment industry at the age of eleven in an Air Jordan shoe commercial. This fresh and creative talent has co-starred in the NBC series Studio 60, Criminal Minds, and CW’s Privileged. Jah is involved in a variety of stage and screen projects. Jah is an active performer in the L.A. theatre community. Having toured with the Phantom Project Education Theatre Group, played his idol Paul Robeson in The Emperor’s Last Performance ('11 NAACP Theatre Award) at the Los Angeles Theater Center. Jah has starred in hit plays Grandpa’s Truth, Men Cry Too ('09 NAACP Theatre Award Nominee); and revised the roles of Bo Decker in the play Bus Stop and Simon Stimson in the play Our Town. Illustrating creativity, depth, and humor, Jah displayed his talents in indie films Dilemma, Nerd Boy, Special Dead, April’s Fools, and Final. In adition to acting, Jah is a writer / producer. Under his company B. Sun Productions, Jah starred in, executive produced, and co-wrote the indie film 10-20, which won the 7th Annual Martha’s Vineyard African-American Film Festival’s top award, Best Feature Film ('09). You can see Jah's demo reel at www.jahtheactor.webs.com/.
Jah Shams, a native of L.A., broke into the entertainment industry at the age of eleven in an Air Jordan shoe commercial. This fresh and creative talent has co-starred in the NBC series Studio 60, Criminal Minds, and CW’s Privileged. Jah is involved in a variety of stage and screen projects. Jah is an active performer in the L.A. theatre community. Having toured with the Phantom Project Education Theatre Group, played his idol Paul Robeson in The Emperor’s Last Performance ('11 NAACP Theatre Award) at the Los Angeles Theater Center. Jah has starred in hit plays Grandpa’s Truth, Men Cry Too ('09 NAACP Theatre Award Nominee); and revised the roles of Bo Decker in the play Bus Stop and Simon Stimson in the play Our Town. Illustrating creativity, depth, and humor, Jah displayed his talents in indie films Dilemma, Nerd Boy, Special Dead, April’s Fools, and Final. In adition to acting, Jah is a writer / producer. Under his company B. Sun Productions, Jah starred in, executive produced, and co-wrote the indie film 10-20, which won the 7th Annual Martha’s Vineyard African-American Film Festival’s top award, Best Feature Film ('09). You can see Jah's demo reel at www.jahtheactor.webs.com/.
ELIAS JIMENES - ORDERLY
In New York where his acting career began, Eli was awarded first prize in the NYC Board of Education inter-borough Spanish Drama competition and was runner up at the New York English Speaking Union's Shakespeare Oratory competition. From there, Eli went off-off Broadway for productions of Twelve Angry Man, The Justs, and Why Love Lucy. Moving to L.A., Eli continued to work in theater and short indie films. These films include El Mariachi Negro, Husband School, and Delano. In TV, Eli has appeared in CSI Miami and Shark. Eli's involvement in production came from the desire to branch out into the business areas of the industry. Eli assisted in the film Dysmorphia, a series of shorts that was presented for Showtime. Next he co-produced the short film Like Grains of Sand. Presently, Eli is in development and pre-production of the feature Happy Birthday, I Hate You. As a theater producer, Eli is excited to be producing his first theater production An Unfinished Man, which debuts in June. In his free time, Eli enjoys poker and visiting his family in the Dominican Republic.
In New York where his acting career began, Eli was awarded first prize in the NYC Board of Education inter-borough Spanish Drama competition and was runner up at the New York English Speaking Union's Shakespeare Oratory competition. From there, Eli went off-off Broadway for productions of Twelve Angry Man, The Justs, and Why Love Lucy. Moving to L.A., Eli continued to work in theater and short indie films. These films include El Mariachi Negro, Husband School, and Delano. In TV, Eli has appeared in CSI Miami and Shark. Eli's involvement in production came from the desire to branch out into the business areas of the industry. Eli assisted in the film Dysmorphia, a series of shorts that was presented for Showtime. Next he co-produced the short film Like Grains of Sand. Presently, Eli is in development and pre-production of the feature Happy Birthday, I Hate You. As a theater producer, Eli is excited to be producing his first theater production An Unfinished Man, which debuts in June. In his free time, Eli enjoys poker and visiting his family in the Dominican Republic.
KEYLA MCNEELY - GILL GIRL
Keyla McNeely plays Gill Girl Lauren. From Georgia, Keyla began working in TV for CBS, writing commercials, magazine content, and designing marketing campaigns. When approached to star in a commercial that she helped write and produce, the moment was set, and Keyla realized that is where she felt most alive. Keyla began auditioning and working in indie films. She was awarded a full scholarship to New York Film Academy (L.A. campus), thus her move to Los Angeles. Keyla has since filmed several indie films and played on the stages of the Whitmore-Lindley Theatre and Santa Monica Theatre. Keyla’s passion for the arts carried over into her writing, through hosting exclusive interviews with music artists and publishing their story; her freelance work can be seen in various national magazines. During her free time, Keyla blogs, takes voice lessons, and auditions frequently. Keyla can most recenty be seen in a Virgin America campaign commercial. Watch Keyla's interview on the GRISLY set here. To learn more about Keyla visit her website at www.keylamcneely.com.
Keyla McNeely plays Gill Girl Lauren. From Georgia, Keyla began working in TV for CBS, writing commercials, magazine content, and designing marketing campaigns. When approached to star in a commercial that she helped write and produce, the moment was set, and Keyla realized that is where she felt most alive. Keyla began auditioning and working in indie films. She was awarded a full scholarship to New York Film Academy (L.A. campus), thus her move to Los Angeles. Keyla has since filmed several indie films and played on the stages of the Whitmore-Lindley Theatre and Santa Monica Theatre. Keyla’s passion for the arts carried over into her writing, through hosting exclusive interviews with music artists and publishing their story; her freelance work can be seen in various national magazines. During her free time, Keyla blogs, takes voice lessons, and auditions frequently. Keyla can most recenty be seen in a Virgin America campaign commercial. Watch Keyla's interview on the GRISLY set here. To learn more about Keyla visit her website at www.keylamcneely.com.
JEN FERRARO - GILL GIRL
Jen Ferraro plays one of the mutated Gill Girls being hunted down in Grisly and the future Grisly Tales webisode Flashpoint. Jen, originally from Boulder Colorado, relocated to Los Angeles in 2006 to further pursue a career in the entertainment industry. She is currently acting, modeling, and writing. Most recently, her creative work can be seen in the pages of Melrose Heights Magazine, and she has a featured role in Paul Haasch's new music video for "Closure." In addition to the being in front of the camera, Jen is also an accomplished musician, writing songs with Rebecca Ruth Fisher for the album "Damn Holiday." For more information or bookings you can contact Jen through her personal website, JenFerraro.com.
Jen Ferraro plays one of the mutated Gill Girls being hunted down in Grisly and the future Grisly Tales webisode Flashpoint. Jen, originally from Boulder Colorado, relocated to Los Angeles in 2006 to further pursue a career in the entertainment industry. She is currently acting, modeling, and writing. Most recently, her creative work can be seen in the pages of Melrose Heights Magazine, and she has a featured role in Paul Haasch's new music video for "Closure." In addition to the being in front of the camera, Jen is also an accomplished musician, writing songs with Rebecca Ruth Fisher for the album "Damn Holiday." For more information or bookings you can contact Jen through her personal website, JenFerraro.com.
ECATERINA BALACEANU - GILL GIRL
Ecaterina Balaceanu (aka "Ecat") played one of the five Gill Girls in the Grisly film short. Born and raised in Transylvania, Ecat journeyed around the world and relocated to Chicago eighteen years ago. In December '10, Ecat started her acting career and, a few months later, migrated into casting and producing as well as she found that she really enjoyed other areas of the film industry. Being on camera in television shows and movies filmed in Chicago, Ecat realized how much fun anyone can have doing something you really love to do. One of her favorite actors is Matt Damon whom she met while filming the movie Contagion in Chicago. She was happy and surprised that he was very pleasant as he spoke to her and other cast members while on set. Ecat believes that in life you will get far and can accomplish anything if you put your mind to it. Work hard, believe in yourself, and it will happen. If you'd like to contact Ecat, please do so at [email protected] or facebook.com/Ecaterina.
Ecaterina Balaceanu (aka "Ecat") played one of the five Gill Girls in the Grisly film short. Born and raised in Transylvania, Ecat journeyed around the world and relocated to Chicago eighteen years ago. In December '10, Ecat started her acting career and, a few months later, migrated into casting and producing as well as she found that she really enjoyed other areas of the film industry. Being on camera in television shows and movies filmed in Chicago, Ecat realized how much fun anyone can have doing something you really love to do. One of her favorite actors is Matt Damon whom she met while filming the movie Contagion in Chicago. She was happy and surprised that he was very pleasant as he spoke to her and other cast members while on set. Ecat believes that in life you will get far and can accomplish anything if you put your mind to it. Work hard, believe in yourself, and it will happen. If you'd like to contact Ecat, please do so at [email protected] or facebook.com/Ecaterina.
TRISTAN DE LA VILLIER - DOCTOR
Tristan De La Villier had a small role in the Grisly short film with a much larger role planned for the Grisly Tales web series. Born in London England, Tristan has traveled the world. Influenced by Anthony Hopkins, Tristan decided to study at the College of Music and Drama after he had already graduated from Oxford University with degrees in Philosophy and Psychology. A Shakespearean trained actor, Tristan joined the National Theatre in 1998, after being personally invited by the Director of the National Theatre, Nicholas Hytner, who could see the untapped potential in De La Villier. In 1999, Tristan made his first film in the England television production, A Whisper in The Dark. Tristan has also performed in many theatrical productions and has featured in numerous independent films since. In 2011, Tristan starred in Just Graduated and Zombie Slayers and in 2013 participated in the feature film Past God.
Tristan De La Villier had a small role in the Grisly short film with a much larger role planned for the Grisly Tales web series. Born in London England, Tristan has traveled the world. Influenced by Anthony Hopkins, Tristan decided to study at the College of Music and Drama after he had already graduated from Oxford University with degrees in Philosophy and Psychology. A Shakespearean trained actor, Tristan joined the National Theatre in 1998, after being personally invited by the Director of the National Theatre, Nicholas Hytner, who could see the untapped potential in De La Villier. In 1999, Tristan made his first film in the England television production, A Whisper in The Dark. Tristan has also performed in many theatrical productions and has featured in numerous independent films since. In 2011, Tristan starred in Just Graduated and Zombie Slayers and in 2013 participated in the feature film Past God.