“The Naiad” is an animated short film about a woman who struggles with being human again after transforming into a tree. She recounts her experience with a psychiatrist and questions the cause of her metamorphosis. The film is a modern reclaiming of an ancient myth, addressing the process of healing after assault and is lead by a diverse team of survivors, artists, and advocates.
BLAKE ALAN DEEMER
writer, director, producer
they/he
Blake is a New York City based producer, artist, and writer with ten years of experience assisting independent and commercial productions. By developing new stories through collaboration and community, Blake hopes to move audiences toward experiences of catharsis and compassion. “The Naiad” is Blake’s first film they have developed as a leading writer, director, and producer.
KATE EASTMAN
writer, director, producer
she/they
Kate is a writer and actor with an MFA in Drama from The Juilliard School. She is best known for her roles in “Archive 81” and “Maestro” on Netflix. She is currently a guest star in “Dark Matter” on Apple TV+ and is set to appear in more projects to be announced soon. “The Naiad” is based on an original story by Kate and is her debut film as a writer, director, and producer.
MARIÉ BARTZ
producer & advocate
she/her
Marié is a San Francisco based artist with a degree in Psychology and Disability Studies from UC Berkley who currently works at Pixar Animation Studios. She is passionate about destigmatizing mental illness, supporting survivors of sexual assault, and improving representation of marginalized communities. “The Naiad“ is not affiliated with Pixar Animation Studios.
