ROT - Short Horror Film

Aim

We are raising funds for 'ROT' - Reality, belief and delusion blur when a young woman discovers a doomsday prophecy while scrolling online

Something is ROTTEN…

ROT is a short internet horror film that explores the need for meaning and connection amidst a culture of online excess and endless scrolling.

Lola spends most of her time isolated in her bedroom with only her screens for company at the expense of her real life connections. When she comes across a recording of a self-proclaimed ‘prophet’ with a horrifying vision of the end of world, she cannot bring herself to look away.

As the prophecy spreads online, her life begins to unravel. Lola wonders if perhaps the end is what she has been looking for, and how she might make the prophecy true. 

The film’s story aims to echo those instances online in which the algorithm repeatedly presents you with unsettling fringe content, or when a friend gets a little too into some internet conspiracy theory; being subconsciously directed down a dark path by an unseen hand.

Purpose

ROT examines the debilitating power of the internet and the impact of living in a 24/7 attention economy which is otherwise disconnected from our social and spiritual needs.

The premise for ROT was inspired by the 2025 online phenomenon wherein a preacher declared the rapture to be imminent, going viral on TikTok and leading many to latch onto the idea – either as genuine believers or to make content that capitalised on the frenzy. Some people sold their cars, prepared post-apocalyptic safety guides for those left after the rapture, and claimed to receive messages from angels. Many were ecstatic for the coming end, for the pain of this world to be over. Of course, the rapture did not come. 

On a larger scale, the project is rooted in the malaise and despair being felt amongst young people today; the future of progress we were promised is dead, and the world feels trapped in an entropic death spiral. Rising fascism, impending climate collapse, increasing wealth inequality; TikTok dances, chatbot companions, AI slop and brainrot. 

How far would you go to find meaning? 

The project is informed by our own personal experiences of poor mental health, and the isolation of 'otherness'. 

What Your Contribution Provides

Funds raised will be used to improve the film’s production – set design, special effects and costuming, catering and snacks to keep the crew and cast fuelled, and covering all expenses and travel costs. 

We also intend to submit the film to festivals internationally, and submission fees can add up! Unfortunately, as an independently produced project, we are unable to pay the cast and crew for their time, and we want their work to be recognised. This funding would allow us to share the team's exceptional talent within the UK and beyond. 

Rewards

Social Media Shout Out - £5

Thank You Credit - £10

Exclusive Film Screener - £20

Executive Producer Credit - £50

Team 

Stella Segar - Writer, Director, Co-Producer

Stella is an Edinburgh-based filmmaker and Edinburgh College of Art and University of Glasgow graduate who enjoys working on narrative and experimental projects, especially in the horror genre. In her practice, she utilises vintage technology and nostalgic media and internet aesthetics to explore themes of the monstrous feminine, belief and control, the blending of the natural world and the digital, and screens as portals into different realities. She recently co-produced the short film Foreign Body, which was selected for the 33rd Raindance Film Festival and nominated for Best UK Short.

Robyn Higgins - Co-Producer

Robyn is an English and Scottish Literature graduate from the University of Edinburgh who conducts independent research on genre fiction, feminism and transhumanism. In her independent studies she has done research on the impact of second wave feminism on literature serialised in Playboy Magazine. Robyn has previously worked in health and wellbeing and production roles in theatre and short films. This is her third collaboration with Stella.

Zak Lang - Director of Photography 

After graduating Edinburgh Napier’s filmmaking undergrad this summer, I moved to Glasgow. Here, I’m pursuing opportunities particularly related to the teaming live music scene. Over the past few years my interest in colour grading has led me to investigate the use or mimicry of historic filmmaking formats in films today. I’m excited to utilise these techniques to frightening effect on ROT! I recently shot the split-screen short No Miracles, and wrote the1300’s-set action short Queen of the May.

Morven Thomson - Production Designer

Morven (they/them) is a production design and art department entrant who has recently graduated from Edinburgh Napier’s Film course. Since graduating, they have worked on a number of short film projects, including projects for: The National Theatre of Scotland, BBC Scotland, and the Sean Connery Talent Lab. They have a passion for both horror and independent short film production, and so are incredibly excited to be joining the crew for ROT.

Adam Booth - Assistant Director 

First Assistant Director with experience across film, television and commercials. Skilled in production paperwork, on-set logistics and cast coordination, with a strong focus on organisation, communication and teamwork. Passionate about helping productions run smoothly, safely and efficiently.

Rue Marion - Lola

Rue Marion is a visual artist and actress based in Edinburgh, Scotland. Currently training within Edinburgh Acting School, Rue is an upcoming talent within Edinburgh’s film scene and can be seen in multiple upcoming independent projects spanning the second half of 2026. Channelling personal experience and emotion, her work aims to bring the most raw stories to life with care and respect through her powerful and truthful performances.

Niall Thomson - Prophet

Niall Thomson is a graduate of the BA (Hons) Stage & Screen Acting course at Edinburgh Napier University. Already he has two Edinburgh fringe festival credits under his belt. A Midsummer Night's Dream in 2025 and Living the Dream in 2026. Niall is always looking for new and interesting projects to be a part of. He gives every part all the personality and creativity it deserves.

Funding method

Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made by 16th December 2026 at 7:42pm