FILM SYNOPSIS
The Kampy Kids return and start their very own podcast about the cryptic creatures they have encountered in their travels. While filming their new podcast, they decide it's time to take a pizza break. Just as the delivery guy arrives with their favorite treat, they discover they may not be alone! Now the burning question, "Where is the pizza!"
Follow along as the siblings solve their next mystery in The Kampy Kids; Close Encounters of the Pizza Kind!
FAQ’s
What sparked the idea for the film?
Our family is back on scene after a hiatus to deal with serious family illness and the birth of the fourth Kampy Kid! The family was anxious to reprise their roles and thought that utilizing some of the pieces we had on hand from mom was the most fun way to get back on the screen!
Funnest moment from filming the first installment of the series, Close Encounters?
Stand out moments would have to include wrangling our pet chickens on set! The kids took their roles very seriously and are so excited to see their pet Silkies included in the project.
Memory that stands out about production?
I think getting the special effect makeup and airbrush back out made a huge impact. Jonathan has really solidified that he yearns to be a creature actor when he grows up and absolutely loves transforming into a completely different character. He loves the makeup process and really gets into his character!
How is it different from previous work?
This is the first project where we really utilized mom's practical effects skills. The kids also all now take acting lessons so have really developed their craft. They offer so many amazing ideas and are very firm on the development of their characters.
Do you have any upcoming projects?
We are currently working on The Kampy Kids Close Encounters Trilogy. It follows the pizza thief through the galaxy and has some pretty cool surprises coming your way! Make sure to check out the ending!
Any tips for new filmmaking kids?
Just do it! Everyone starts somewhere and each project is a learning experience. Strive for each new project to be better than the last.
KEY CREATIVES
This film was truly a collaboration of Jonathan, Alexander, and Charlotte’s ideas. We sat together and bounced ideas off one another and created this story after building upon each other’s ideas. Mom and Dad taught them how to write a script including plot points and other key story telling elements.
Director. Writer. Actor
Jonathan Tiberius
Jonathan is an autistic 11 year old with big dreams of making it in the film industry. He travels the continent while dreaming up short film ideas centered around the most popular urban myths and legends of each state they visit.
Jonathan is interested in cryptids and the unusual. He is Godzilla obsessed and is a dinosaur aficionado. He has 3 younger siblings, Alexander, Charlotte, and Vivienne. Together are the mystery solving siblings, The Kampy Kids.
Writer. Camera Operator. Actor.
Alexander William-Kidd
Alexander William-Kidd is a creative powerhouse with compelling ideas and a knack for building strong characters. He has a grasp of key story telling elements and comes up with engaging stories while understanding character growth, conflict, and resolution. Alexander loves to find himself behind the lens and can often be found tinkering with different lighting techniques and watching his father intently to take over the camera whenever he gets the opportunity.
Actress. Writer.
Charlotte Jeanne
Charlotte Jeanne is the charismatic youngest sibling (as of this film). She is spunky and extremely confident. She is a born performer and loves to be on camera. You can always count on Charlotte to deliver with tons of energy and enthusiasm.
Charlotte is a self proclaimed “Rocker” who loves Rock music as much as she loves ballet. Half girlie girl, half metal, and a whole lot of sass.
Assistant Director. Editor
Jonathan “Dad” Bastianelli
Jonathan is an accomplished film making professional and owner of a small production company with his wife. He is a professional editor, story-board artist, and concept artist.
Jon has been making films since he was a kid and enjoys teaching his kids the craft and watching them follow in his footsteps. When he isn’t co-directing his kids’ films, Jon can be found as an AV engineer.
Producer. Writer. Special Effects
Samantha “Mom” Bastianelli
Samantha “Mom” Bastianelli is a SyFy’s FaceOff reality show alum and Special Effects artist. When not producing and holding the production (and family) together, she enjoys teaching the kids all about the craft of filmmaking including the props, wardrobe, and makeup aspects.