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Dylan Douglas see on the Left, Oona Laurence center and Chase Markoff on the Right.
Weird Films, the independent production company founded by Chase Markoff, is on a mission to bring internet culture to the big screen in its latest project, Area 51 Love Raid. This romantic sci-fi comedy is an ambitious and bold film inspired by the 2019 viral phenomenon “Storm Area 51.” What began as a social media joke about storming the infamous military base has now evolved into a heartfelt coming-of-age story about love, aliens, and the unique journey of being young in today’s world.
With the launch of its Kickstarter campaign on April 17, 2025, Area 51 Love Raid represents not just a fundraising effort but an opportunity to engage with a community of backers who share a love for quirky, creative projects. For Weird Films, this project embodies the spirit of its brand: embracing the unconventional, celebrating bold ideas, and finding a way to turn viral internet moments into something cinematic. The film promises a love story of cosmic proportions while tapping into the quirky beauty of Gen Z culture and storytelling.
“We make unconventional films because to us, originality is what makes stories truly special,” says Chase Markoff, the CEO and founder of Weird Films. “Memes deserve to be represented on the big screen, and Area 51 Love Raid provides the perfect opportunity to do that. It’s more than a film; it’s a celebration of the unexpected and wonderful.”
The movie’s story follows a group of young adventurers, Riley who anonymously creates the Storm Area 51 Facebook page on a wimp to try to get his crush Lulu to noice him. This simple act cascades into a viral sensation attracting millions of people. Leading Riley, Lulu, her crazy brother Cosmo and their chaperoning Uncle J on a roadtrip adventure to raid the notorious Area 51 with hopes of encountering extraterrestrial life. It’s an imaginative, heartfelt take on youth, rebellion, and the quest for something greater—whether that’s love, aliens, or finding a sense of belonging in a chaotic world. The film promises to offer a fresh perspective on the sci-fi genre, combining humor, heart, and authenticity.
What sets Area 51 Love Raid apart from other independent films is its connection to internet culture and the community. Instead of relying on traditional funding models, the film’s Kickstarter campaign invites supporters to play an active role in the production journey. “This isn’t just about raising funds,” Markoff explains. “It’s about building a community of dreamers, creators, and people who believe in the power of storytelling, no matter how unconventional it may be.”
The film also boasts an impressive cast, with Tony Award-winning Oona Laurence starring as Lulu, the quirky protagonist; legendary comedian Brian Posehn playing the role of Uncle J; and Dylan Douglas portraying the enigmatic Cosmo. Chase Markoff, in addition to his role as the film’s creator, will play Riley, one of the film's central characters. The chemistry among the cast, along with the unique premise, promises a film that feels fresh, funny, and emotionally resonant.
“We’re calling on the dreamers, the lovers, the memers, and the misfits,” says Markoff. “This film is a love letter to Gen Z and anyone who has ever been fascinated by internet culture, the strange, and the unexpected. Area 51 Love Raid is an opportunity to bring those wild ideas to life on screen.”
The Kickstarter campaign offers backers a chance to participate in the film’s development, with rewards like limited-edition artwork, behind-the-scenes access, executive producer credits, a role in the film and exclusive merchandise, like Dr. Squatch Area 51 soap, which adds a fun, tangible connection between fans and the production. Beyond these rewards, backers will become part of the film’s community, supporting an independent project that champions creativity, originality, and authenticity.
Weird Films is no stranger to taking risks and pushing boundaries. With Area 51 Love Raid, the production company is continuing its mission of creating unconventional films that resonate with audiences. The studio is carving a niche by focusing on projects that stand apart from mainstream productions and embrace the quirky, the bold, and the imaginative.
“Memes and internet culture have a unique place in today’s storytelling landscape,” Markoff adds. “They capture the spirit of a generation in a way that feels real and relatable, and there’s something magical about translating those stories into a film that speaks to a wider audience.”
Area 51 Love Raid aims to give voice to stories and ideas that have been circulating on the internet for years, blending humor and heart with a sense of adventure. As it moves forward with its Kickstarter campaign, the project has the potential to reshape what indie filmmaking can be—fun, fresh, and undeniably original.
To learn more about the project and become a part of the Area 51 Love Raid community, visit the official Kickstarter page here and join the movement today. For more about Weird Films, visit their official website at www.weirdfilms.org.
Stay updated and follow Weird Films on social media for more news, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and exclusive content leading up to the launch of Area 51 Love Raid.