A gripping dystopian short film
Press play for a more immersive experience!
"At its core, Planet 13 is a sobering reflection on humanity's complacency towards the state of the earth and the misguided belief that there will always be a 'Plan B' available."
Writer/Director: Joe Murdie
On a harsh, burnt-out planet that is rapidly dying, a young couple roam the land in search of a way to buy their survival. To them it's clear, as it was for their grandparents, that the only way to survive is to leave their home planet in search of a new one. However, unlike the people of earlier generations, their home isn't Earth, and finding the resources needed to escape is a matter of life and death.
LOGLINE
Production has Wrapped!
Currently in post-production, Planet 13 is an ambitious project that filmed in March 2024 following a successful funding campaign on Boosted NZ.
The team is committed to delivering a short film that will captivate audiences and showcase their talents, with the goal of entering a number of prestigious international and New Zealand film festivals that support short narratives.
Planet 13 promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of a future where the consequences of our actions have come home to roost.
This film will appeal to fans of sci-fi classics such as Dune, The Book of Eli, IO, and Blade Runner, as well as to those who are passionate about the environment and combating climate change.
The team behind Planet 13 is dedicated to creating a cinematic experience that will challenge viewers to reflect on their role in shaping the future of our planet.
synopsis
Planet 13 is a gripping narrative short film, that delves into the notion of a backup planet, a tongue-in-cheek reference to the idea of a "plan B."
Set in the year 2093, the story takes place on a planet ravaged by human activity, devoid of natural fuel resources and rapidly deteriorating.
With the planet on the brink of collapse, a young couple set out on a dangerous journey to secure the scarce resources needed to escape to a new world, where they can start afresh.
But in a world where the few remaining fuel and battery supplies are the most valuable commodities, survival is not guaranteed.
At its core, Planet 13 is a sobering reflection on humanity's complacency towards the state of the earth and the misguided belief that there will always be a "plan B" available.
The film serves as a cautionary tale, warning against the dangers of assuming that resources are limitless and that we can continue to exploit the planet without consequences.
It forces viewers to confront the reality that our actions have consequences and that we must take responsibility for the state of our planet before it's too late.
CAST
Planet 13 features two key talent - 'Ellie' and 'M', a young couple on a journey of survival. Ellie is played by the very talented Luna Blanco and Jordan Rivers brings a wealth of experience to the role of M.
Planet 13's cinematic universe
Central Otago’s vast and ‘other worldly’ locations were the inspiration for this film and will set the scene for the dying planet.
In addition to outstanding locations, props will play a key part in bringing the Planet 13 cinematic universe to life and we’re stoked to be partnering with the incredibly talented production design team at Monolith Cinematic
CREW
Our team is led by Joe Murdie who will be Director and Cinematographer for Planet 13. Joe has an extensive list of credits across a variety of film and television projects and is the creator of the Planet 13 story. Following on from the success of Joe's debut drama short film, 'WALK' in 2023, Joe will head up the camera department and work with a small but agile team to bring the imagery of Planet 13 to life.
Erin Murdie is joining the team as Producer and will head up the production management team overseeing financing, resourcing, production and distribution. Erin has worked on numerous drama and reality projects from around the world. She is known for her ability to find the heart of a story and bring it to life in an authentic and emotionally powerful way.
Some of our other amazing crew are;
Emily Menzies 1st AD
Anna McConville Production Co-Ordinator
Danny Fairley Sound Recordist, Composition & Mix
Ben Walbank 1st AC
Jase Hancox 2nd AC
Ash Walton Gaffer
Pete Bersani Props Master
Kirsty Marshall Unit Production Manager
Emilie Plowman H/MU Artist
Steph Holloway Body Language Consultant
Emma Edwards Wardrobe
Ned Brannigan BTS Camera
Jordan Siobhan Stills Photographer
Xaden Stringer Locations Assistant (Intern)
Susannah West Prodcution Assistant
Tasmin Murphy Production Assistant
Inspiration
Since the 1900s, Earth has experienced a significant increase in CO2 and SO2 levels, as well as global temperatures, largely due to technological advancements aimed at improving the human way of life. Although these innovations, such as the widespread use of vehicles and the proliferation of factories, have provided convenience and comfort, they have come at a tremendous cost.
Consider the possibility of humans beginning anew on a different planet with access to current knowledge and technology. How long would it take to render this new planet uninhabitable by polluting it to unsustainable levels? How long before excavation, drilling, and depletion of resources disrupt the planet's balance, resulting in catastrophic events? Would it take 30 years? 60 years? How many generations until we are right back to where we started?
Diadium Cells
One of the key props the team at Monolith Cinematic have been working on with us it that of the Diadium Cells.
Diadium Cells are an extremely high power battery cell that has become the highest form of currency on Planet 13.
Monolith Cinematic is a Wellington based film studio and art department specialising in Miniatures and Prop Making.
Monolith Cinematic combines the talents of a number of working art department professionals with credits across Avatar 2, (3 & 4), and even back to the original Lord of the Rings trilogy.
"We are really excited to be working on Planet 13, we love a good Sci fi story and designing on this has been heaps of fun. We really believe in what the team at Bunker Street Film Co. has in store for you."
James Bennett, Monolith Cinematic
SUPPORT THE PROJECT!
Following a successful Boosted campaign we are well underway with Pre-Production and will begin filming at the beginning of March 2024, we do still welcome any enquiries from donors, sponsors or executive producers – private or commercial to support post production.
There are numerous ways to support this film so please contact Producer Erin Murdie on erin@bunkerstreet.co.nz or 021 758 263 to chat about getting involved.
A huge THANK YOU to the following people and brands for your incredible support of our project
Pembroke Patisserie
Rhyme x Reason
The Bottle'o Wanaka
Wanaka Beerworks
Fed Dali Wanaka
See Crow Fly Coffee
The Warehouse Group Wanaka
Amigos Wānaka
Pirate Pickles
Sals Wānaka
Refinery 74
Your name in the credits
Become an Executive Producer! We welcome individuals who would like to be credited to become EP's with donations of $1,000 NZD or more.
Additionally individuals or businesses that wish to donate any value can be credited (or remain anonymous) as contributors.
What we offer:
-
Executive Producer (EP) credit (for donations over $1000.00)
-
Special thanks in the film’s final credits for yourself, a business or someone you would like to honour
-
Crew & Cast, thank you photo
-
Private world premiere invitation to join the Cast and Crew and celebrate.
As part of our ongoing commitment to our one and only planet Earth, this entire production will have a negative carbon footprint.
This page and the information within has been provided in confidence. All concepts and information is property of Bunker Street Film Co. and cannot be shared or copied.
All rights reserved - January 2023