Filmmakers Have Launched Production of Human Noise
The collaborative team behind the short film is now seeking support to develop a feature-length version of the project.
Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Urban
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Cottage Grove Productions and InstinctiVision Films have moved into post-production for their collaborative short film, Human Noise. The project explores the complexities of identity, adult pressures, and friendship.
Why it matters
The production team aims to build local film infrastructure in the Midwest, creating career opportunities for regional storytellers. This project reflects the experiences of millennials navigating modern life and professional expectations.
The four-person core production team includes George Ellzey Jr., Jordan Rivers, TJ Harris, and Keiph Oliver. They have previously collaborated on the 2022 short film Cottage Grove.
The players
George Ellzey Jr.
He is the founder of Cottage Grove Productions and serves as a lead developer for the film project.
TJ Harris
He is the founder of InstinctiVision Films and a primary collaborator on the current production.
The details
The production relies on resources and operational support from Cinespace Chicago, DePaul University, O'Connor Casting, Keslow Camera, Black Opal, and Jamaican Mango and Lime. The team developed the film through shared production roles and years of creative collaboration in Chicago.
Timeline
The production team first collaborated on the short film Cottage Grove in 2022.
The team plans to develop a feature-length version of the project over the next three years.
Industry Dynamics
The expansion of this indie project mirrors the growth of the Chicago film production sector documented by Cinespace Chicago. This effort follows a pattern set by recent independent productions aiming to solidify the Midwest as a hub for cinematic creation.
Local audiences in Chicago can look forward to upcoming public screening events for the short film. The production team is actively seeking community support to facilitate the transition from this short film to a full-length feature.
The takeaway
Supporting local independent productions helps foster a more robust creative economy within the region. Interested viewers should stay alert for future announcements regarding the public premiere of this project.
What happens next
The production team plans to hold a public screening and an online premiere for Human Noise at a future date.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest creative developments in the Urban film sector.
More information
View Cottage Grove Productions project information for updates on the film's release.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Chicago Defender.
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