THE STORY
When Sheryl clicks a mysterious link, her screen starts watching back. Family photos twitch. Whispers gather behind her. The only thing more dangerous than watching… is turning around.
The Team
The creative team behind DON’T TURN AROUND combines Hollywood experience with indie grit — filmmakers driven by story, performance, and atmosphere.
Ramon Pesante
Writer / Director / Producer: New York–based Latino filmmaker blending emotional realism with supernatural suspense. His work explores family, faith, and identity through grounded, genre-driven storytelling.
Stephen Herman
Writer / Producer:
Established Hollywood writer (credits include Black Box and Blank) bringing seasoned narrative craft and psychological depth to DON’T TURN AROUND.
Lionel Djaowe
Producer / Director of Photography:
Lionel’s cinematography uses practical lighting and close framing to create tension and realism.
Your Impact
With layoffs hitting creative industries hard, DON’T TURN AROUND is about doing the opposite, creating work and paying people fairly for it. Every dollar goes toward the crew, the artists, and the craft. When people are valued, it shows in the work, and we want that energy on screen.
Rewards
What Will Your Donation Give You?
$50
Submit your photo, and you’ll experience the game
First to see it in a private screening
$250
We’ll save a spot for you in the film.
Timeline
November
Pre-Production
December
Production
January
Post-Production
Summer 2026
Festival Prep and Backer Screening(s)
faq
When do "The Witnesses" see the film?
Before festivals get their paws on it, you’ll get a private screening.
Where will updates live?
On the GoFundMe campaign page + email to backers.
Is this a proof-of-concept?
Yes this short paves the way for the feature.