Michael Schatz Talks Short Film Investors
- May 12
- 3 min read
Film Title: The Chatter
Budget: $26,325
Status: Currently in fundraising, shooting summer 2026
Logline: When a lonely chatter working for an adult content creator forms a real connection with a subscriber, he's faced with an impossible choice between honesty and the comfort of illusion.
The Chatter was a finalist project for our Spring 2026 Grants Program, with a propulsive short film script that peels back the curtain on the complex world of "chatters." Writer/director Michael Schatz shares a bit about his funding journey for the project, which is set to shoot later in 2026. Check out their Seed & Spark fundraising campaign page here.
How are you funding this short film?
[Michael Schatz] Funding for The Chatter is still ongoing! We were lucky enough to land some initial investments, which really helped put us over the top. But because you never know what can happen on set and in the filmmaking process, we will launched a Seed & Spark campaign on April 1st to raise a little extra.
Did you have funding in place before writing, or get funding together after you wrote the script?
[MS] I had no funding in place before I started writing. All the attachments from my wonderful crew and investments came after the script was written. We were lucky enough to get nominated for Best Short Screenplay in a few festivals, which helped give the project some credibility. So the script paired with a pitch deck is what I used to attract my crew and investments.
What is your long-term vision for the project?
[MS] I see The Chatter as a feature film one day. I think the story is timely, and I think there's more to mine from each of the characters. The goal for The Chatter is to aim high and focus on premier festivals. With some luck, we'll have a successful festival run, gain traction, and be able to find financing to expand this into a feature. So I guess, in a way, this is proof of concept, but it really does stand alone as a short story as well.
Did you learn anything when it comes to film funding and budgeting that you will do differently on your next project?
[MS] I think the biggest thing I learned is that there are more people out there who are willing to invest in filmmaking than you think. But you need to have a plan in place. You need to have a strong story, script, and deck. Know exactly what your budget will go to, so if someone asks you, you'll be able to answer precisely.
Were there any areas where you were able to call in favors/save money? What were those areas?
[MS] Of course! I was able to reach out to some friends who were willing to help. This ranges from equipment they had to volunteering their time and skills to help bring this to life. Filmmaking is hard! But if you have the passion for it, if you have the drive, if you love it, then it can be the best feeling in the world.
What do you think people will be interested in knowing that I haven't asked?
[MS] That filmmaking isn't dead. I know there's a lot of talk and fear around certain types of technology, but nothing will ever replace the artistic skill and passion that filmmakers have. I've met a lot of people throughout this journey so far who are simply passionate about film and want to make good stories. It's heartwarming to see and know that we aren't alone in that. People will always make films; you just need to find your group of fellow artists and creators. Trust me, they are out there.
Thanks for sharing, Michael! Can't wait to see the project!
About Michael Schatz
Michael's scripts have been featured on the prestigious Black List and Hit List. He is a two-time Nicholl Fellowship semi-finalist, and currently has a script in development with John Wells Productions. He was a producer on the Netflix documentary, 'Travelin' Band: Creedence Clearwater Revival at The Royal Albert Hall.' His feature, The Woman With Red Hair, is in production with BAFTA-nominated producer Pouya Shahbazian. Michael is based in Los Angeles, CA.
Instagram - The Chatter
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