Submission instructions are at the bottom of this page.
Synopsis
The Shadow Man is a supernatural horror short about curiosity, peer pressure, and the deadly consequences of inviting evil into your life. When a forbidden ritual awakens a malevolent force, the teens learn too late that some urban legends are terrifyingly real.
Character Breakdown
Justin (Male, 13-15)
Justin is a typical teenage boy trying to impress a girl while balancing the responsibility of caring for his younger sister, Molly. Beneath his attempts to appear cool and confident, he is protective, good-hearted, and ultimately forced into a leadership role when the night's events turn terrifying.
Ty (Male, 13-15)
Ty is the enthusiastic instigator of the group, fascinated by urban legends and the supernatural. Confident and energetic on the surface, his bravado quickly crumbles when he realizes the Shadow Man may be real, revealing a vulnerable kid who is in far over his head.
Maya (Female, 13-15)
Maya is fun-loving, adventurous, and always eager to embrace excitement. She encourages the group's supernatural experiment with infectious enthusiasm, but her fearless attitude gives way to genuine terror as the consequences of their actions unfold.
Lexi (Female, 13-15)
Lexi is new to the group and possesses a bold, confident personality that immediately captures Justin's attention. Curious and adventurous, she encourages the ritual despite her skepticism, only to become one of its most frightened victims when the legend proves real.
Molly (Female, 8-11)
Molly is Justin's sweet, innocent younger sister who adores her brother and trusts the people around her. Her childlike innocence makes her both endearing and tragically vulnerable, as she becomes the unwitting gateway through which the Shadow Man enters the house.
Production Details
The script is written by Benjamin L. Ward, who will also be directing. Mr. Ward is the director of dozens of award winning short films and two feature films, and is joined by his frequent collaborator, Producer Rendalee Singleton.
The script content is scary but not violent. A Parent or Guardian must be on site and available to the Minor at all times while they are working. This production is in compliance with all State/Provincial Child Entertainment Laws.
Shooting Dates
Saturday and Sunday, September 19-20, 2026
Location
North Texas, in the DFW area.
Compensation
$150.00
Submission
Please send headshot and resume to strangermornings@gmail.com with the subject heading "Shadow Man" plus the role you are submitting for. For example: "Shadow Man, Justin"
The deadline to receive submissions is Friday August 7, 2026.
If selected to read for the role, the producer will respond by Wednesday August 12, 2026 with sides for you to record and submit a short video audition by Wednesday August 19.