Help Build Happy Valley’s Next Wave of Independent Films

Three films. Three different worlds. One shared ambition: create compelling independent films while building opportunities for cast, crew, and emerging filmmakers in Happy Valley.

Through Dark Mind Productions, we’re raising funds to move three feature films forward: The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau, The Door and the Book of Mystics, and Mr. Bear.

Your support will help these projects take their next steps from script to screen.

The Films You’re Supporting

The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau *Working Title*
A family adventure inspired by the spirit of classic ’90s adventure films, blending discovery, friendship, grief, and legacy. Set against Happy Valley’s landscapes and historic locations, this story puts our region at the heart of the adventure.

The Door and the Book of Mystics
A fantasy adventure that opens the door to a world of mystery, magic, and danger. This project brings imaginative storytelling to our slate, with opportunities for creative work across production design, practical effects, and visual effects.

Mr. Bear
A psychological and supernatural horror film centered on Sheriff Lily Prescott. Built around tension, atmosphere, and unsettling mystery, this project explores the darker side of our storytelling.

Together, these films offer audiences three distinct experiences while sharing a commitment to developing talent and creating filmmaking opportunities here.

Why This Matters to Me

I’m Pablo Lopez, founder of Dark Mind Productions and a Penn State film graduate. This community helped me find my footing when I needed it most. Building a filmmaking future here is personal to me.

I want people to have more opportunities to tell their stories, develop their skills, and pursue creative work in the place they call home. These films are part of that vision.

How Your Contribution Helps

This yearlong campaign will help advance the three films through achievable development and production milestones. Depending on each project’s stage and funding needs, contributions may support:

• Script development, budgeting, and production planning.

• Casting and assembling production teams.

• Pitch materials and other work needed to pursue additional financing.

• Cast and crew compensation.

• Equipment, locations, insurance, and production logistics.

• Hands-on learning and mentorship connected to productions.

• Editing, sound, color, and other post-production needs.

This campaign contributes toward the films’ funding needs. Completing all three features will require additional financing and project-specific planning.

Three Films, Clear Progress

Contributions support the overall slate rather than being divided equally among the three films. We will allocate funds according to project readiness, funding needs, and the next achievable milestone.

Throughout the campaign, we will explain which project is receiving support, what the funds will cover, and what that milestone accomplishes. If funding or schedules change, we will share those changes and adjust the scope accordingly.

Follow the Journey

Over the next year, we will introduce the creative teams, share project updates and behind-the-scenes material, and report on funded milestones.

You can contribute once or choose recurring support through the options available on this page. You can also help by sharing the campaign and connecting us with people or businesses interested in supporting independent film.

Be Part of the Next Chapter

Whether you’re drawn to family adventure, fantasy, or horror, there’s a story here you can help move forward.

Support The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau, The Door and the Book of Mystics, and Mr. Bear, and help us build a future for independent filmmaking in Happy Valley.