A Disturbance in the High Desert

In the wild 1920s West, two lovers grapple with a violent incident that forces them to ask - what happens when those we love betray us?

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SYNOPSIS

A DISTURBANCE IN THE HIGH DESERT is a dramatic short film that transports us to 1920s Eastern Oregon. As economic hardship spreads across the region, hateful groups and laws threaten the safety of those deemed inferior or “defective.” Mare and Gemma are lovers living a fragile existence in this rugged, unforgiving landscape. We meet them after Gemma endures a nighttime assault by an unexpected perpetrator on the outskirts of their ranch. The certainty of right and wrong blurs. Familial ties are tested.

Told with restraint and conviction, this haunting story explores the unrelenting prevalence of violence against women and the queer community. It asks us to consider, what can we ask of our loved ones? 

WHY NOW?

Our film is a call to ignite positive social change through the most powerful and potent means we can imagine: hard conversations. We aim to raise awareness of the persistence of violence against women and the threat to the safety of those who identify as LGBTQ+. As artists and educators, we are committed to shining a light on unheard voices – queer women of the early 20th century - as a vehicle to inspire new ways of thinking about how we care for and understand one another. We believe empowerment, safety, and autonomy are possible for women and queer folks, but that version of a more caring, just, sustainable world starts with uncomfortable dialogue and deep listening with those we love most.

THEMES

BODILY AUTONOMY

FREEDOM TO LOVE

HARD CONVERSATIONS

TRUST & BETRAYAL

Meet the Team

  • Brynn Mitchell

    DIRECTOR

  • Tillie Howard

    WRITER | ACTOR EXECUTIVE PRODUCER

  • Zach Morrison

    DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY

  • Chris Tuck

    EXECUTIVE PRODUCER

  • Jenna Wood

    ACTOR

  • Lauren Stava & Michael Costello

    EDITORS

  • Hector Martinez

    LINE PRODUCER

  • Jasmin Please

    ASSISTANT DIRECTOR

    PRODUCER

  • Mackenzie McMahon

    PRODUCTION DESIGNER

  • Joseph "JP" PadPad

    COSTUME DESIGNER

THIS PROJECT WOULD NOT BE POSSIBLE WITHOUT THE FOLLOWING PARTNERSHIPS

A Disturbance in the High Desert is fiscally sponsored by Creative Visions, a 501c3 nonprofit organization that supports creative activists, those that use the arts and media to ignite social change.