MAKE/FILMS and the Global Impact of Brave the Dark
Bringing Hollywood to Lancaster: MAKE/FILMS and the Global Impact of Brave the Dark
Digital Article Series, Thriving

By Make/Films

A feature piece from our Winter 2024 issue of the Lancaster Thriving Publication.


Lancaster, Pennsylvania, long known for its picturesque countryside and vibrant Amish culture, is emerging as an unexpected hub for filmmaking thanks to many production companies’ efforts and the vision of MAKE/FILMS, a production company led by entrepreneur and filmmaker Derek Dienner. With its latest film, Brave the Dark, the company is not only solidifying Lancaster’s place on the map for high-quality film production, but also showcasing the region’s ability to craft stories with global resonance.

At the heart of MAKE/FILMS lies a simple yet profound mission: “Make something meaningful.” This ethos is embodied in Brave the Dark, a deeply moving story that highlights perseverance, redemption, and the power of human connection. The film, which tells the story of a troubled teen, Nate Deen, and an inspiring teacher and local legend, Stan Deen, began its journey right in the heart of Lancaster. It’s a testament to the area’s growing creative capabilities, the local investors who funded the film, the Pennsylvania film tax incentive program, and all of the filmmakers’ dedication to producing work that moves audiences emotionally while resonating universally.

Lancaster as a Film Destination

For decades, Pennsylvania’s film industry has been overshadowed by larger markets like New York and Los Angeles. However, Brave the Dark exemplifies how Lancaster, with its unique mix of historic charm and modern infrastructure, is becoming a desirable location for filmmakers. It takes many companies working together to build and grow an industry. MAKE/FILMS, alongside other companies such as Triode Media Group, has not only tapped into the area’s scenic beauty but has also fostered a network of local talent—from actors and crew to post-production experts.

By investing in local resources and talent, the Lancaster film community has done more than create a film; it has nurtured an ecosystem. Projects like Brave the Dark contribute significantly to the local economy by creating jobs, engaging businesses, and drawing external interest. Local catering services, transportation providers, accommodations, and freelance creatives all benefit from productions like this, establishing Lancaster as a burgeoning creative hub.

From Local to Global

The journey of Brave the Dark is a story of grit, passion, and collaboration. Starting as an ambitious script 11 years ago, written by Nate Deen and John Spencer, the film gradually gained traction, attracting talent and partnerships that extended its reach far beyond Lancaster. The project has become a beacon of what small markets can achieve when vision and determination align.

What sets Brave the Dark apart is not just its narrative but its universal themes. Audiences worldwide can connect with its message of hope and transformation, proving that powerful storytelling transcends geographic boundaries. This accessibility has already caught the attention of international distributors, including Angel Studios, a company known for its commitment to films that spread light. Their involvement ensures that Brave the Dark will find a

global audience, spreading Lancaster’s name and reputation along with those of all the filmmakers who produced it around the world.

Impact Beyond the Screen

The significance of Brave the Dark goes beyond its artistic merits. By shining a light on Lancaster’s capabilities, MAKE/FILMS has opened doors for future productions in the region. The film’s success is inspiring other creatives to view Lancaster as a viable place to develop their ideas, fostering a sense of community pride and entrepreneurial spirit.

For MAKE/FILMS, Brave the Dark is not just a film; it’s a movement. It symbolizes the potential of regional filmmaking to make a global impact, while also demonstrating the power of storytelling to connect people, no matter where they are in the world. As the film prepares to premiere on the global stage, it’s clear that this is only the beginning of Lancaster’s rising film industry.

Brave the Dark – Release Information:

Brave the Dark will be released by Angel Studios on January 24, 2025, across the United States. To buy tickets, watch the trailer, and for more information visit, bravethedark.com.

Learn more about Make/Films with the link below

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