Queer Western Feature Film “Crimson Shadows” Launches Crowdfunding Campaign

BOSTON — Novelist and screenwriter S.M. Norton announced today the launch of a crowdfunding campaign for Crimson Shadows, a feature film adapted from her novel of the same name. The project blends elements of the Western genre with a queer romantic narrative. Crimson Shadows follows Sarah Montgomery, a sharpshooting outlaw raised by her mentor, Henry Fairbanks. When a train robbery forces her gang into hiding, Sarah encounters Rachel Sewall, a woman with a violent past. Their relationship challenges Sarah’s loyalty to Henry and leads to a confrontation that forces both women to risk everything for a chance at freedom. The screenplay has generated early interest during development, though traditional financing has proven challenging. Norton cited the project’s genre elements and focus on a queer love story as factors. “Westerns have always been about the struggle for freedom, but women are usually only there for the male lead,” Norton said. “This story centers on two queer women from different backgrounds trying to survive in a world that wants to erase them. This campaign is about taking control of our own storytelling and showing there is an audience for this kind of film.” The film remains in development, with plans to pursue additional production partnerships and financing following the conclusion of the campaign. Funds raised will support the project’s next phase of pre-production. For more information about the project or to support the campaign, visit the Crimson Shadows crowdfunding page. About S.M. Norton ** S.M. Norton is a Massachusetts-based novelist and screenwriter and the author of **Crimson Shadows. Her work focuses on character-driven stories that challenge traditional genre expectations. She is currently preparing to publish a queer fantasy novel.