Why support this project?

THE ATONEMENT is an independently produced streaming series by D.C.-based writer/producer Vanessa D. Anthony. Inspired by real-life events, this six-part crime thriller explores domestic violence, trauma recovery, and hope for restorative justice through unlikely alliances in small towns. The series is currently in pre-production, with production to begin in Georgia in the summer of 2025.

Join us! Contributions to this campaign directly support our capacity to deliver the high-quality production our ambitious social impact entertainment mission demands.

When D.C. Homicide Detective Robert Grant returns to his hometown to investigate a complex murder case, he uncovers a web of secrecy that drags him further from the truth and deeper into his guilt and grief over an unsolved case from his past. He finds solace with Emily Thornton, a local woman with demons of her own. Together, they embark on a journey toward truth, redemption, and restorative justice.  

 

With its compelling ensemble cast of characters and haunting backdrop of rural Georgia, The Atonement series tells a story that stays with you long after its truth is revealed.

 

-Vanessa D. Anthony, Series Creator 

THE ATONEMENT series evolved from an early childhood memory I have of losing two distant family members to domestic violence. I remember the stories that circulated throughout the small town where I grew up in rural Georgia. I remember attending a funeral with two caskets, which was something I had never seen before and left a lasting impact on me. I later learned my family saw no justice as the killer went free. 

 

The series follows two compelling protagonists as they navigate the unique power dynamics of such insular communities. Detective Grant finds unexpected solace with Emily Thornton whose dark secret may hold the key to justice and healing they each seek.

Robert Grant is a seasoned homicide detective haunted by a case that went cold on his watch; the death of his sister at the hands of an escaped killer has left him reeling in guilt and grief that he barely manages with prescription drugs. Grant returns to his hometown in Georgia to take on a complex murder investigation, hoping to find personal atonement by bringing justice to the victim’s family. His empathy and persistence are a double-edged sword - drawing him deeper into a web of lies in a close-knit community bound to keep silent even as the prime suspect remains at large. 

 The series offers a twist on the character-driven procedural, taking a deep dive into the complexities of relationship abuse and the challenges survivors face in seeking protection and justice in small towns.

The Atonement has undergone numerous changes over the years. The story has expanded significantly with the introduction of new characters, 

storylines, and locations. The series is based on my short film "Death of a Drunk," which was filmed in Chiba, Tokyo, Japan in 2008. The short was compelling on its own, but I had many ideas for expanding the story into a feature film.

 

After I moved to Washington DC for work, I put The Atonement aside. My motivation to work on the project dwindled. During the COVID pandemic, I was moved by the steep rise in reported cases of domestic violence and felt drawn to revisit The Atonement story. With my passion for writing reignited, the story and characters grew in depth and complexity. The Atonement was now a mature six-episode screenplay.  In July 2021, the series trailer was selected by the Festival for Trailers Monthly via FilmFreeway.

 

The Atonement series is now in pre-production. Season One is set to begin filming for 18 days on location in Washington D.C. and Georgia in the summer of 2025. The six-episode screenplay has captured the attention of viewers and accomplished industry professionals alike. 

The Atonement team is already hard at work scouting locations and assembling a core production staff, cast and crew. 

Our team now includes:

• Director of Photography - Richard Sanborn 
• Music Composer - Keith Blount 
• Wardrobe Supervisor - Jazmyne Elizabeth Booking
• Set Dresser - John Cook

For more info on the production and our social impact mission, visit www.theatonementseries.com. 

 

 Last winter, we met our campaign goal and then some - raising $5K+ for pre-production costs through Seed & Spark!

For this round of crowdfunding, we're seeking $59,000 toward The Atonement's total production costs!

HOW WE PLAN TO USE WHAT WE RAISE:

Crowdfunding from this campaign goes directly to support these key production costs:

• A DIRECTOR WHO SHARES OUR VISION
• PRODUCTION CREW
• LEAD TALENT

Plus - Our production budget now includes a PAID INTERNSHIP opportunity for new filmmakers to gain on-site production experience and networking!

We're currently in talks with some accomplished directors and lead talent interested in joining the project. With your support, we can build on this key fundraising phase to secure these essential production roles!

• CONTRIBUTE TO THIS CAMPAIGN: Make a one-time or recurring  contribution in any amount!
• FOLLOW US: Join our Email List or follow our Social Media  to receive updates on The Atonement Series campaign and production progress!
• SHARE US: Share this LINK to our campaign page to your email, social media, and text networks!

MEET THE TEAM