Why? (2025)

'Our story follows Riley and her partner Chloe as they commence a new chapter in life together. As unknown complications arise, how does Riley move through their reality?'

‘Films have the power to capture dreams’. A dream. Inspiration. Belief.

‘Why?’, a drama-romance with a sprinkle of sci-fi, began from the influence of stories and film. From the dream of wanting to explore different concepts within the cinema world. Then, after watching creatives close by release their projects, the inspiration took over. Finally, with the intention of creating an honest, loving, and unexpected story, the writing commenced. 

‘Why?’ is a film that needs to be made as it showcases an LGBTQIA+ relationship from a generally unexplored perspective; one from a loving, domestic and compassionate nature. This women-centred film follows a narrator who sits comfortably in her routine and life she’s created and paints her world in vivid warmth and colour. 'Why?' encourages telling stories that take us to other places and applauds viewers to explore themes and emotions that aren’t usually displayed in short films. 

This project brings together South-East Queensland's most passionate, talented and emerging creatives for an opportunity to tell a heartfelt story. This film welcomes people to connect, a space to explore creative ideas and help feed ambitions.

The film is written, directed and starring Madi Dryden. Madi is an upcoming writer and director, who’s passionate about telling authentic stories both in front of the camera and behind it. ‘Why?’ is Madi’s first independent short film which she’s solely written and directed. She's within a small but incredible cast whose entirety will be revealed soon... 

Profound Visions is a production company founded by Kayley Atkinson who sits in the Producer chair of ‘Why?’. With multiple short films as a writer, director, and producer and as a production assistant on TV and commercial projects, Kayley is a wonderful asset and partner to this production. 

Behind the camera is the talented creative duo known as ‘DomnWil’. Dom and Wil have worked for over a decade across multiple creative facets and social media platforms, to bring artists together: "FAST alone but FAR together!" They both continue to push the boundaries of creating thinking and execution, whilst also holding space on social media that encourages creativity instead of killing it.

To bring this film to life, here's where we reach out to you. Every share and each donation, no matter how big or small goes towards the creative team of ‘Why?’ and all partnering bodies contributing to this project. 

These funds will go directly towards production costs like equipment hire, booking locations, food costs, paying our cast and crew, and post-production costs such as sound design. The donations will also contribute to film festival submissions, so that 'Why?' is viewed and broadcasted to an international audience. 

Please only send what you can. And if you can't, then simply sharing and reading this is more than enough. 

Posts will be made to @why.shortfilm on Instagram. 

Thank you for taking the time to read about our film! We truly appreciate you stopping by. As creatives, we aim to spread love and honesty through life and in sharing stories. Your support means everything. It means we get to tell this story... Now, let's go make a movie!!

Sending love, 

The ‘Why?’ Team