From its thriving arts community to its growing roster of creative entrepreneurs, Wichita continues to prove that big ideas can take shape right here in the Midwest. Now, writer and director Jared Givens is bringing that spirit to the big screen with YAMEANERS, a psychological thriller set to be filmed entirely in Wichita.

Born and raised in Wichita, Givens is preparing to make his feature directorial debut while shining a spotlight on the people, places and creative energy that make the city unique. Through local casting, Wichita-based filming locations and a commitment to showcasing area talent, YAMEANERS aims to tell a compelling story while highlighting Wichita's potential as a destination for independent filmmaking.

Described as hypnotic, unsettling and immersive, YAMEANERS follows Jay, a recent college graduate searching for purpose and belonging. What begins as a series of exciting nights with a charismatic group of nightlife regulars gradually evolves into something far more mysterious and consuming, blurring the line between friendship, devotion and obsession.

For Givens, the idea for the film grew out of observations made during nights out and social gatherings.

"I wanted to highlight the psychological side of nightlife," he said. "What inspired me was everything I witnessed at gatherings, parties and activities of that nature. There were little details that I would notice that always made me think deeper. The music, flashing lights and energy in a concentrated place just fascinates me."

Those observations eventually evolved into a feature-length screenplay and a vision for a film that explores the powerful human desire for connection and belonging.

Why Wichita?

Although Givens considered filming in Kansas City, where he has lived for nearly two years, he ultimately felt called to bring the project home.

"Something about the story pulled me to Wichita," he said. "I chose Wichita because it's my hometown. I wanted to provide an opportunity to show off the talent in this area. The roots of my creativity are found here. I view this as my creative gift to the city full of people that have done so much for me."

His connection to Wichita runs deeper than the film's setting. The city helped shape him as a storyteller long before he stepped behind the camera.

"I credit my love for reading to the Wichita Public Library summer reading program and my parents," Givens said. "I never liked being forced to read but now I'm an author of seven books and counting. It's funny how that works."

He also points to teachers, friends and childhood experiences as important influences on his creative development.

"Growing up in Wichita has allowed me to pull inspiration from people I've interacted with and situations I've been in," he said. "My imagination already works overtime so I like to think that a project like this was bound to happen."

Showcasing Wichita's creative community

While YAMEANERS tells a fictional story, the project's mission is rooted in something very real: celebrating the talent that exists throughout Wichita and the surrounding region.

"This city is full of hidden talent in all creative avenues," Givens said. "Outsiders would be impressed with the diversity in what is often considered a small city. People here are passionate and dedicated to their craft."

He believes Wichita's creative community is one of the city's greatest strengths and an asset that filmmakers from outside the region should know about.

"Wichita is full of interesting locations and untold stories," he said. "Filmmakers have access to historic neighborhoods, local businesses and surrounding Kansas landscapes. The creative community is eager to collaborate, which I believe makes this a great place for independent filmmakers."

The community's response to the project so far has been encouraging.

"People are curious about how this film will look and how the story will come together on screen," Givens said. "They are also excited because this will be my first feature film. The city deserves to be elevated on the silver screen, especially in an era where originality is truly valued."

How to get involved

As production moves forward, there are still opportunities for local residents to become part of the project.

Givens is currently seeking approximately 30 to 40 extras, as well as several key crew positions including a Director of Photography, Production Sound Mixer, First Assistant Director, Gaffer, Production Assistant, Script Supervisor and Behind-the-Scenes Photographer/Videographer.

"Wichitans can support in many ways," Givens said. "Working as extras, volunteering on production, supporting local film events and helping spread the word about this project being created in the city."

For Givens, the success of projects like YAMEANERS depends on a community willing to invest in local storytelling.

"The growth depends on people who are willing to contribute their talents, time and support to bring local stories to the screen."

Those interested in crew positions or opportunities to participate can contact the production team at yameanerscasting@gmail.com.

As YAMEANERS prepares to begin filming in Wichita, the project represents more than a feature film. It's a showcase of local talent, a celebration of creative ambition and another example of the stories taking shape right here in Wichita.