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“Stocktonian Exchange”: Dark Humor, Done Right

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We’re thrilled to introduce Hannah Rose Vernot, an amazing screenwriter who is making waves in the industry! Her latest project, “Stocktonian Exchange – Kill Your Spirits,” has earned her a spot as a finalist for the Best Teleplay Award at the Houston Comedy Film Festival. The story revolves around two sisters who, after a fatal accident, must find a way to ascend from the mortal plane before their ghostly presence wreaks havoc on their town.

The Story Behind “Stocktonian Exchange – Kill Your Spirits”
The premise of “Kill Your Spirits” is as intriguing as it is darkly comical. Carolina Ramos wakes up to a rude surprise when her younger sister, Roman, breaks into her apartment with shocking news—they’ve both died while filming themselves exploring a collapsing house. On the advice of a local psychic, the sisters set out to stage their own funerals, hoping that this act will allow their souls to ascend and prevent the black hole created by their lingering presence from consuming the town. Along the way, they encounter the disdainful remarks of their mother and revisit the site of their demise in search of closure.

Vernot’s inspiration for the story comes from her love of dysfunctional family dynamics and larger-than-life characters. She draws a parallel between the chaotic energy of her characters and the cast of “Always Sunny,” noting that while the characters insult and bicker with each other, the humor lies in their oversized personalities rather than in their unlikeability. The sisters, both in their thirties, continue their lifelong dynamic of childish squabbling even in the face of death, making for a darkly humorous and relatable narrative.

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Crafting the Narrative
For Vernot, writing “Kill Your Spirits” involved carefully balancing the beginning and middle of the story with the challenge of crafting a satisfying ending. While she could easily envision the hook—one sister nonchalantly informing the other of their ghostly status—and the sisters’ efforts to stage their funerals, finding the right resolution proved more difficult. The climax of the story comes as the sisters realize that their funeral does not solve their problem, leaving them to confront the reality of their situation.

Vernot’s journey as a writer began in childhood, fueled by an imagination that often outpaced her ability to translate ideas into prose. It wasn’t until she graduated with a degree in Creative Writing and began exploring screenwriting that she found her stride. Over the past five years, she has honed her craft, moving away from prose and focusing on writing for the screen.

A Growing Portfolio
Since completing “Kill Your Spirits,” Vernot has written several other thirty-minute teleplays, including two comedic specs and a pilot for a series titled “Wildflower of the Valley.” She is also collaborating on a short animation project with a group of women from Women in Animation (WIA), which has reached the animatic stage and is being prepared for entry into film festivals.

Connecting with Hannah Rose Vernot
Vernot is actively seeking opportunities to collaborate on comedic writing projects, particularly those in the realm of animation. While she is working on expanding her presence on social media, she currently prefers to be contacted via email or LinkedIn for initial collaborations. Vernot is also a member of several organizations that support writers in animation, including WIA, Asians in Animation, and Script Anatomy, where she has been refining her pilot and spec scripts.

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As Vernot continues to revise and submit her work to festivals, her goal is to gain the attention of agents and managers who can help her secure a staff writing position on a series with a similar tone to her own work. For now, she is focused on using her portfolio to showcase her talent and make connections within the industry.
Connect with Hannah Rose Vernot:

Vernot’s blend of dark humor and sharp character dynamics in “Stocktonian Exchange – Kill Your Spirits” is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting career in screenwriting. Keep an eye out for her work in upcoming festivals and beyond.

From the Film Festival Circuit Founder, Mikal Fair:

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Gene Hackman, Two-Time Oscar Winner, Dies at 95

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Legendary actor Gene Hackman, known for his versatile performances and iconic roles, was found dead at his Santa Fe, New Mexico home on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. He was 95 years old. Hackman’s wife, Betsy Arakawa, 63, and their pet dog were also discovered deceased alongside him.

Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza confirmed that the couple died around midnight on Thursday, February 27. While the exact cause of death remains undetermined, authorities have stated that no foul play is suspected. The sheriff’s office is conducting a full investigation and has requested a search warrant for the property.

A Storied Career

Hackman’s illustrious career in Hollywood spanned over six decades, during which he received numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards, two BAFTAs, and four Golden Globe Awards. He won his first Oscar for Best Actor for his portrayal of Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle in the 1971 thriller “The French Connection,” and his second for Best Supporting Actor as Little Bill Daggett in Clint Eastwood’s 1992 Western, “Unforgiven”.

Throughout his career, Hackman demonstrated remarkable versatility, taking on a wide array of characters across various genres. Some of his most memorable roles include:

  • Buck Barrow in “Bonnie and Clyde” (1967)
  • Harry Caul in “The Conversation” (1974)
  • Lex Luthor in the “Superman” films (1978, 1980)
  • Norman Dale in “Hoosiers” (1986)
  • Royal Tenenbaum in “The Royal Tenenbaums” (2001)

A Private Life

Known for his humble demeanor and aversion to the spotlight, Hackman retired from acting in 2004 after his final significant role in “Welcome to Mooseport”. In his later years, he turned to writing, authoring several novels including “Wake of the Perdido Star” (1999) and “Escape from Andersonville” (2008).

In a 2020 interview, Hackman shared insights into his quiet life with Arakawa, saying, “We enjoy watching DVDs that my wife rents; we appreciate simple narratives that some low-budget films manage to create”.

Legacy

Gene Hackman’s passing marks the end of an era in Hollywood. His ability to portray complex characters with depth and authenticity left an indelible mark on cinema. From his breakout role in “Bonnie and Clyde” to his Oscar-winning performances, Hackman’s legacy as one of the greatest actors of his generation is secure.

As the entertainment world mourns the loss of this iconic figure, investigations into the circumstances of his and his wife’s deaths continue. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office has assured the community that there is no immediate danger, and further details will be released as they become available.

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Hackman’s contributions to film will undoubtedly be celebrated and remembered for years to come, serving as an inspiration for future generations of actors and filmmakers.


Bolanle Media covers a wide range of topics, including film, technology, and culture. Our team creates easy-to-understand articles and news pieces that keep readers informed about the latest trends and events. If you’re looking for press coverage or want to share your story with a wider audience, we’d love to hear from you! Contact us today to discuss how we can help bring your news to life

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Actress Michelle Trachtenberg Found Dead in NYC Apartment at Age 39

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Michelle Trachtenberg, the beloved actress known for her roles in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Gossip Girl,” was found dead in her New York City apartment on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. She was 39 years old.

According to police sources, Trachtenberg’s mother discovered her unresponsive in her Manhattan residence near Columbus Circle just after 8 a.m. local time. Emergency services were called to the scene, but the actress was pronounced dead upon their arrival.

The New York Police Department released a statement confirming that they responded to a 911 call about an unresponsive woman at 1 Columbus Place. Upon arrival, officers found Trachtenberg unconscious and unresponsive. The statement added, “Criminality is not suspected. The Medical Examiner will determine the cause of death. The investigation remains ongoing.”

While the official cause of death has not been released, sources close to the investigation revealed that Trachtenberg had recently undergone a liver transplant and may have been experiencing complications. The actress is believed to have died of natural causes, with no foul play suspected.

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Trachtenberg’s untimely passing has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and her fanbase. The New York City native began her acting career as a child star, appearing in Nickelodeon projects such as “The Adventures of Pete & Pete” before landing her breakout role in the 1996 film “Harriet the Spy”She went on to achieve widespread recognition for her portrayal of Dawn Summers in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” from 2000 to 2003 and later as Georgina Sparks in “Gossip Girl” from 2008 to 2012.

In recent months, fans had expressed concern about Trachtenberg’s health due to her appearance in social media posts. The actress had addressed these concerns, stating that she was “happy and healthy” and asking critics to “check yourself haters”.

As news of her death spread, tributes began pouring in from fans and fellow celebrities alike. Trachtenberg’s last credited role was in 2023 when she reprised her character Georgina Sparks in the Max reboot of “Gossip Girl”.

The entertainment world has lost a talented actress who touched the lives of many through her diverse roles and memorable performances. As the investigation into her death continues, fans and colleagues remember Michelle Trachtenberg for her contributions to television and film, as well as her impact on popular culture.


Bolanle Media covers a wide range of topics, including film, technology, and culture. Our team creates easy-to-understand articles and news pieces that keep readers informed about the latest trends and events. If you’re looking for press coverage or want to share your story with a wider audience, we’d love to hear from you! Contact us today to discuss how we can help bring your news to life

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Houston Says Goodbye: Kylie Jenner Helps with Funeral Costs for Late Hairstylist Jesus Guerrero

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The beauty world is mourning the loss of Jesus Guerrero, a talented celebrity hairstylist who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 34 on February 22, 2025. Born and raised in Houston, Texas, to immigrant parents, Guerrero had become a prominent figure in the Los Angeles beauty scene, working with A-list celebrities such as Kylie Jenner, Jennifer Lopez, and Katy Perry.

In a touching gesture of support, Kylie Jenner, who had worked closely with Guerrero for over six years, is reportedly covering the funeral expenses and helping to transport his body back to his hometown of Houston. This act of kindness reflects the close bond Jenner shared with Guerrero, who was not only her hairstylist but also a friend.

Jesus Guerrero

Guerrero’s sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry. Just days before his death, he was working with Jennifer Lopez during her trip to the United Arab Emirates, showcasing his talent at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena on February 18. His sister, Gris Guerrero, announced his passing through a GoFundMe page, describing it as “very sudden and unexpected”.

The outpouring of love and support from celebrities and colleagues has been overwhelming. Kim Kardashian shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, emphasizing the deep connections formed within the glam community. Other stars, including Jessica Alba, Shay Mitchell, and Rosalía, have also expressed their grief and shared fond memories of Guerrero.

As Houston prepares to welcome home one of its own, the beauty industry reflects on Guerrero’s legacy. Known for his warmth, creativity, and ability to craft hair masterpieces, he left an indelible mark on those he worked with and inspired. His journey from Houston to becoming a sought-after stylist in Los Angeles serves as a testament to his talent and determination.

Jesus Guerrero

While the cause of Guerrero’s death has not been disclosed, his family is focusing on celebrating his life and the impact he had on others. As they make arrangements to bring him back to Houston, the support from Kylie Jenner and the wider community provides some comfort during this difficult time.

Jesus Guerrero’s passing is a reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of cherishing the connections we make. As Houston says goodbye to one of its talented sons, his legacy in the world of beauty and fashion will undoubtedly live on through the countless lives he touched and the styles he created.

Jesus Guerroro Styling Kylie Jenner’s Hair

As we navigate life’s unexpected turns, it’s clear that true strength lies in preparation and community support. At Doing Far More, we’re dedicated to helping families create lasting legacies with compassion and understanding. Whether you’re seeking guidance on estate planning, funeral services, or simply want to ensure your loved ones have peace of mind, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Let’s work together to transform difficult conversations into empowering moments. Schedule your complimentary consultation today by contacting info@doingfarmore.com. Together, we can build a legacy that truly reflects your life’s journey and aspirations for your loved ones.


Bolanle Media covers a wide range of topics, including film, technology, and culture. Our team creates easy-to-understand articles and news pieces that keep readers informed about the latest trends and events. If you’re looking for press coverage or want to share your story with a wider audience, we’d love to hear from you! Contact us today to discuss how we can help bring your news to life

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