MONMOUTH COUNTY – Local filmmakers have officially wrapped production on a compelling short film that was entirely shot in Monmouth County.
Between Threads is directed by Kelsey Cabell and produced by Monmouth County’s own Makayla Patton, alongside Sarah Baxter and Stephanie Ruiz. The film explores the emotional toll addiction takes on families while also showcasing its path to healing.
Set in a bridal boutique, the story follows Jamie, a bride-to-be who begins to unravel during what should be a joyful milestone. As she struggles to choose a wedding dress, memories of her late mother – and the lingering pain of growing up with addiction in the household – begin to resurface. With the support of her sister Faye, Jamie confronts what was lost, what remains, and what it means to move forward.
“Between Threads is an emotionally resonant short film that explores the complexities of generational trauma through the lens of sisterhood,” Patton said. “[It] weaves past and present through subtle flashbacks and sharp dialogue, illuminating how grief, guilt, and love can coexist. At its core, the film is about the bond between sisters and the quiet resilience it takes to break cycles and heal – even when closure feels elusive.”
Writers and producers go through footage filmed at a local school in Monmouth County. (Photo courtesy Makayla Patton)
Patton explained how the project took about a year to create, from the writing stages to now being in post-production.
“Kelsey and I wrote Between Threads in June 2024 during a car ride home from Boston after wrapping Espiritu – a short film that Kelsey co-wrote and co-directed, and I produced. Since then, we’ve been refining the script, and after three months of prep, we shot the film in February 2025 over two days in Atlantic Highlands and Wall Township. We’re currently in post-production, with plans to submit the film to festivals,” Patton said.
The film also received strong local support from businesses, Patton noted.
“Filming locally is always important to me, and the support I’ve received from the Monmouth County community has been incredible. From securing locations to arranging catering and finding background actors, there’s always someone willing to lend a hand,” Patton said. “We were fortunate to film at Ivory and Veil Bridal in Wall, which was the perfect setting for our story, as well as at Mother Teresa Regional School in Atlantic. We even received generous donations from local businesses like Gems Bagels, First Cup Coffee, The Proving Ground, and Meemoms, which made the whole process even more special. I’m deeply grateful for the strong sense of community that’s been with us every step of the way.”
Patton has been in the film industry for over a decade, starting as a college intern while studying at The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts. She’s held to production assistant roles on shows like Gotham, Hunters, and Law and Order: SVU. She’s also been a personal assistant to prominent actors, writers, and producers.
Film cast and crew on set at a Monmouth County bridal shop. (Photo courtesy Makayla Patton)
“While each chapter taught me something valuable, I ultimately discovered that my passion lies in creating – writing, producing, and acting in projects of my own,” Patton said. “Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with incredible collaborators, but I’ve truly found my creative tribe in Kelsey Cabell, Stephanie Ruiz, and Sarah Baxter, who were instrumental in bringing Between Threads to life.”
“Kelsey and Stephanie are the award-winning duo behind Hope You Feel Better and Happy Anniversary, and their latest project, Espíritu – which I also produced – is set to hit the festival circuit in fall 2025. Sarah Baxter, one of the youngest assistant directors on the East Coast, already has credits on high-profile productions like FBI: Most Wanted, Wu-Tang: An American Saga, and Pose. I’m proud to collaborate with such inspiring women and to be telling stories that reflect our collective voice and vision,” Patton added.
Between Threads stars Landry Bender (Pure O, Looking for Alaska, Fuller House), Deborah Twiss (Kick-Ass), and Makayla Patton herself, who also serves as an Executive Producer. The film’s visuals are captured by Director of Photography Michael Henaghan, whose recent work on music videos for Joyner Lucas and Jelly Roll earned him a VMA nomination. The editing is being handled by Monmouth County local Tyler Harrison of Thriving Era.
Produced by Two Doods Productions, a female-led company founded by Patton, Between Threads is currently in post-production and is slated to make its festival debut in Fall 2025.
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