In a moment of crisis, a young writer sparks to a new idea. “Cowards,” written by and starring Ava Hase, is a study of self doubt and flailing career ambition that sharply touches on a host of insecurities related to a life in the performing arts. Mave is on the verge of giving up her dream of “making it” in Hollywood when she comes across a box of old childhood books. Recalling an early inspiration — “The Wizard of Oz” book — she decides to give it one last shot, developing a one-woman show where she plays the cowardly lion, and attempting to corral the sister of an A24 producer to attend. Directed by Mitch deQuilettes, the film explores the anxieties, resentments, exploitations, and desperate side hustles within a landscape of social climbing and California dreaming. We previously featured Hase with her 2021 short, “Kitty Kitty,” and Mitch deQuilettes with his recent shorts, “Staff Pick” and “Hill Hikers.” -KA. Director, Producer: Mitch deQuilettes. Writer, Producer: Ava Hase. DP: Adam Leene. Wardrobe & Production Design: Kivlan King. Original Score: Ian Sweet. Sound: Kivlan King. On-Set Acting Coach: Chasen Bauer. Starring: Ava Hase, Taylor Snook, Whitmer Thomas, Tef Baker, Chelsea Debo.

Kitty Kitty: https://www.nobudge.com/videos/kitty-kitty
Staff Pick: https://www.nobudge.com/videos/staff-pick
Hill Hikers: (co-directed by Elizabeth Godar) https://www.nobudge.com/videos/hill-hikers