Casting for The 15th Hour is now closed. We are no longer reviewing submissions for this production.
Written and directed by Zaria Lashae, the film is a minimalist psychological short set within a convenience store over the course of a single shift.
The story follows Zero, a quiet store employee navigating fluorescent monotony, subtle social tension, and a growing internal pressure that culminates in a silent act of departure.
When Zero leaves mid-shift without clocking out, the system does not collapse. It replaces her.
The film explores: Emotional autopilot · Systemic normalization · Microaggressions masked as casual conversation · Replacement without recognition · Quiet rebellion
Lead and Supporting Roles Included: Zero (Lead) · Diana (Supporting) · Floyd (Supporting / Symbolic Replacement) · NPC Customers (Featured & Background)
The 15th Hour is filmed in Denton, Texas, blending restrained dialogue with observational framing. A recurring bird motif and a ticking clock serve as silent witnesses to the system's continuity. Production begins March 2026.