cast & crew

Katy Wilson - Ashley Ann

Katy Wilson is an actor, singer, and Taylor Swift enthusiast based in Atlanta, GA. She recently wrapped filming the lead role in Lifetime’s Murder on the Homestead, directed by Haylie Duff. In 2025, she will appear in recurring roles on ABC’s Will Trent and Netflix’s She the People. She also stars opposite McKenna Grace in the feature film Slanted, which was awarded the Grand Jury Prize at SXSW 2025. Her other recent TV/film credits include Heels (STARZ), A Rose for Her Grave (Lifetime), Florida Man (Netflix), and A Christmas Open House (Warner Bros), along with a national commercial campaign alongside Aubrey Plaza. She can usually be found drinking tea and pretending she’s in a Jane Austen novel.

Lainey Knowles - Daisy May

Atlanta native Lainey Knowles is best known for her recurring role in NBC’s new series Grosse Pointe Garden Society. Her natural ease in front of the camera was evident early on, landing her numerous print and video projects. At just three years old, she made her on-screen debut as Lily Loud in Nickelodeon’s holiday special A Loud House Christmas. Lainey trains weekly with The Prep NJ and embraces every opportunity that comes her way. Off set, she’s often adventuring with her siblings, belting out songs, choreographing dance shows, or roasting marshmallows to golden perfection.

Catherine Cobb Ryan - Tracie Lynn & writer/director/producer

Catherine Cobb Ryan is a New York–based actor, writer, and director who trained with the legendary Bill Esper. After stepping away from acting to care for her mother, finish her degree, and raise her kids, she returned to the screen through a string of shorts, later appearing in Christina Kallas’ ensemble dramas 42 Seconds of Happiness and The Rainbow Experiment. She starred in the supernatural thriller Dark Exorcism, shared a dance with André Braugher in Outliving Emily, and wrote, directed, and starred in her award-winning short Season of Passage. Most recently, she wrote and directed Lifesaver—and, after some gentle arm-twisting, took on the role of Tracie Lynn. When she’s not writing, she’s happiest walking along the Hudson River or getting her hands in the dirt.

Sharon Blackwood - Ms. Goodman

Sharon Blackwood began her onscreen career in the acclaimed series I’ll Fly Away and made her film debut in Terence Davies’ The Neon Bible, which competed at Cannes. She went on to work with legends like Sidney Poitier, Kenneth Branagh, and Ellen Burstyn, and is best known for her role as Lola Loving in Jeff Nichols’ Loving, starring Joel Edgerton and Oscar-nominated Ruth Negga. This fall, she appears in Brothers opposite Josh Brolin, Peter Dinklage, and Glenn Close. Sharon’s recent TV credits include Will Trent, Dopesick, Raising Dion, and a memorable turn in Ozark. She lives just outside Atlanta with her husband Michael and their black lab, Molly.

Amanda Fallon smith - miss jackson & Editor/DIT

Amanda Fallon Smith is a professional New York City/Atlanta based actress, producer and editor originally from Tampa, Florida. She is a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University with a BFA in Drama and a proud member of Actor's Equity Association. Her passion for the creative arts has allowed her to not only perform professionally around the world, but create and produce award-winning content within the independent film circuit. She has greatly enjoyed expanding her love of visual storytelling to the narrative, commercial and music video mediums.

Mickey Cole Jr. - Junior

Mickey Cole Jr. is a born and raised Atlanta local. His father, Michael H Cole, inspired him to start acting at a young age. Mickey pursues both Theatre and Film while living in Atlanta. He has a passion for storytelling and loves stretching his imagination every day. Mickey recently appeared in Will Trent (ABC) and Swarm (Amazon), but you can also find him in The Resident (FOX) and Queen America (Facebook Video). If you don't see Mickey on screen or stage, it could be because he's exploring characters and stories while playing Dungeons and Dragons in his down time.

robert pralgo - beau

charlie bucket - stray dog

My name is Charlie Bucket and I’m so excited to make my film debut in Lifesaver! Thank you to Catherine and my grandma, Jaye, for putting me in the movie. My mom said this story is really sweet and meaningful. And since I can’t read or understand movies, I’m gunna trust her! When my mom saw my goofy face on a dog rescue site, she suspected I might want to be the center of attention. And since both my mom and my dad work in “showbiz”, it was only a matter of time before I got in front of the camera. 

jaye jackson pniewski - producer

Jaye Pniewski is a film and TV director who brings a unique style and inspiration to every project, telling stories that entertain and engage the audience. A 30 year veteran of the film industry, she has been a producer and director for multiple productions including two award winning short films; Mend in 2019, and Bound in 2023. Jaye was recently named Best Director at the 2023 Southern Shorts Awards for her work on Bound. As the owner of BlueJaye Films, her commercial production company, and BuddyBoy Films, her TV & Film production company, she has told many award winning stories that have made a difference, one project at a time. After raising three beautiful daughters, Jaye and her wonderfully talented husband, Mike, live in Woodstock, GA BuddyBoyFilms.com http://BlueJayeFilms.com

Colin Babcock - Director of photography/colorist

Colin Babcock is a New Orleans–raised, Atlanta-based cinematographer and co-founder of Cosmic Film Co. Known for his intuitive camera work and striking visual style, he brings a deep sensitivity to story, space, and emotion. An award-winning filmmaker in his own right, Colin’s narrative, commercial, and documentary work has screened at festivals internationally and spans formats from short films to branded content. With a collaborative spirit and sharp visual instinct, he approaches each project with care, curiosity, and intention. His eye behind the camera helped shape the grounded, lyrical tone of Lifesaver, capturing both the beauty and the tension in its quietest moments.

stephen beehler - Line producer/upm

Stephen Beehler is a creative entrepreneur with roots in filmmaking and technology. In 2018, Beehler launched RoleCall, a film and theatre production logistics software, and began producing feature films under the RoleCall banner as well. As of 2024, Beehler has produced 8 feature films and also works as a line-producer and production accountant for hire. He recently opened Limelight Theater, an indie-focused venue in Atlanta for filmmakers and theatre producers to exhibit their works.

gillian fitz - 1st Assistant director

Gillian Fitz stepped in at the last minute to assistant direct Lifesaver, bringing energy and drive to a fast-moving shoot. A seasoned executive assistant, she has supported leadership in high-pressure creative environments, including her work with Passionflix—the female-led streaming platform founded by Tosca Musk. With a strong command of logistics and time management, Gillian helps productions stay on track and running smoothly, even during ambitious multi-setup days. Her sharp focus and attention to detail have supported creative teams across a range of projects, from independent films to branded content.

philip spratt - gaffer

ryan maeglin - composer

aubrey pax - wardrobe

Aubrey Pax is a wardrobe assistant based in Atlanta with diverse experience in film and television. Her credits include notable projects such as Patient (2016) and Faceless After Dark (2023), showcasing her ability to support costume departments across a variety of genres. Known for her attention to detail and proactive work ethic, she helps bring character visuals to life through thoughtful support and collaboration.

indgo wylde - hair & make up

Indigo Wylde is an Atlanta-based makeup artist whose creative prowess has supported storytelling in both film and television. Her credits include work in the upcoming productions Chasing June, The Black Dagger Brotherhood, and The Grove. Known for her versatile skillset—from character transformation to beauty touch-ups—Indigo consistently delivers looks that help actors fully inhabit their roles. Working across narrative, genre, and intimate storylines, she brings thoughtful technique and emotional insight to every set. Whether collaborating closely with directors and performers or adapting on the fly to changing creative needs, Indigo brings warmth, precision, and artistry to every production experience.

Kelly Harrell - Art Direction

Kelly Harrell is a Georgia-based prop master and art department professional with a wide range of experience across film and television. Her recent credits include Civil War (2024), Souls of Silence, Slanted, and An Unlikely Angel, as well as work on acclaimed series such as The Walking Dead, Will Trent, and The Wonder Years. Known for her hands-on artistry and deep knowledge of props and set decoration, Kelly brings both creativity and precision to every production. Her work helps shape immersive visual worlds that support character, tone, and story from the ground up.

Cameron Pfeltz - Production Sound Mixer

Cameron Pfeltz is an Atlanta-based production sound mixer with credits in narrative features, shorts, and television. His recent work includes False Flag (2025), Step Back, Doors Closing (2024), The Bad Die Young (2022), and Gray People II: Rise of the Denzi. He frequently works as a solo sound department, handling both mixing and boom operation on set, as he did for Lifesaver.

emma husk - key Production assistant

Emma Husk is a creative producer and filmmaker based in Atlanta, specializing in narrative, documentary, and branded content. With a sharp eye for story and a background in assistant directing, she brings clarity, momentum, and empowering leadership to every set. Emma has collaborated with networks like Netflix, Tyler Perry Studios, and ReelShort, as well as emerging artists and independent productions across the Southeast. She works to champion underrepresented voices, particularly in queer art, and is drawn to stories that balance humor and heart. In her free time, Emma enjoys improv acting, traveling, and journaling - practices that keep her connected to play, curiosity, and reflection.

james ortis - stunt coordinator

James Ortiz is a seasoned stunt coordinator and performer based in Atlanta, GA, with a diverse background in martial arts, gymnastics, and precision stunt work for film, television, and music videos. A SAG-AFTRA member, James has contributed to high-profile projects including Spider-Man: Homecoming, Lovecraft Country, Cobra Kai, The Walking Dead, and Stranger Things, and has provided motion reference for ILM’s Velociraptors in Jurassic World. James brings deep expertise in fight choreography, wire work, high falls, and practical effects—skills he applies with creativity, discipline, and care. Whether coordinating action or stepping in as a performer, James is known for his collaborative spirit and commitment to serving each story with integrity.