TRAPPED
BE PART OF THE AWARENESS
Please record yourself on your phone (as seen in the video example below) answering these two questions. Upload your video via the submission form along with your social handles so that we can tag you on our social channels.
1. Did you know human/sex trafficking is the second largest criminal business in the United States of America? Is this issue the same in your country?
An estimated 250,000 children per year are victims of sex trafficking.
2. Our girls and boys are being exploited by sex traffickers over the internet. At what age do you think they should be taught about sex abuse/trafficking?
*Please keep your video to a 3-minute limit.
PLEASE FORWARD THIS LINK TO YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS. LET’S STOP SEX ABUSE AND TRAFFICKING.
VIDEO SUBMISSION FORM
SAMPLE VIDEO
ABOUT THE FILM
FILM SYNOPSIS
“Trapped” is set in a small American town where sixteen-year-old Becky, inspired by her late grandfather, dreams of owning a horse farm. However, her mother Melissa, trapped in a cycle of addiction and dependency on dangerous men, neglects Becky, forcing her to flee into a dark and dangerous predicament.
Simultaneously, a crisis unfolds in a neighboring town as another young girl disappears, leading her parents to issue a desperate plea for her return. “Trapped” intertwines these tales of peril and hope, making it a compelling film that captures the struggle against daunting odds.
“Trapped” is a poignant tale of resilience and fear, a stark reminder of the shadows that lurk behind closed doors and the light of hope that never ceases to shine. It’s a film that promises not only to captivate but also to resonate deeply with anyone who has ever fought to escape the inescapable.
FILMING: Filmed on location in North Dakota.
DIRECTOR’S STATEMENT
“As a filmmaker, my latest project addresses the critical and often overlooked conversations between parents and their teenagers about the perils of online interactions, sexual abuse, and sex trafficking. This film is crafted not only to inform but to empower, providing a catalyst for these essential discussions. Our goal is simple yet profound: if this film can deter even one young individual from the dangers of running away from home out of fear, then we have achieved success. We believe in the power of cinema to illuminate and inspire, to forge understanding and fortify safety. Join us in this vital conversation, for awareness is the first step towards protection.”
-Ejaz Khan
TAGLINE
Innocence is not for sale.
THE FILM
Genre: Drama/ Suspense
Production Year: 2023
Rating: PG13 (goal is to get PG)
Release Date: January 2025
Country of Origin: United States
Language: English
Runtime: 1 hour 48 minutes
Screen Ratio: 2.35:1
Sound Format: Stereo and 5.1 Mix
Theatrical Format: DCP
Streaming Format: HDR
LEADING CAST
LYDIA PEARL PENTZ 
ROLE: BECKY
16-year-old daughter of Melissa who dreams of having her very own horse ranch as her late loving grandfather once did. She pleas and wishes to help her mother but grows to hate what her mother becomes.
MEGHAN LEONE COX
ROLE: MELISSA
A young single mother struggling with addiction and adulthood. She ultimately becomes dangerously reliant on disreputable men who fuel her substance abuse.
MICHAEL DUNLAVY 
ROLE: MYLES
New to town, Melissa’s most recent companion is an individual with a shadowy past.
ALEX DEPINTO
ROLE: RYAN
Becky’s closest friend and support system throughout her hardships at home.
SUPPORTING CAST
EMMA BEYER
ROLE: CLARICE THOMPSON
Mother of missing teenage girl, Brooke. A large hunt for her daughter’s safe return home takes over the close-knit community.
MILES BARNUM
ROLE: DARRYL THOMPSON
Clarice’s husband and Brooke’s father. Seeks to find his daughter while looking over his distraught wife.
JUNE MARIE DAVIS
ROLE: DETECTIVE COLE
The lead investigator in Brooke’s disappearance. Trying to solve such a case and providing comfort to grieving parents weighs heavy on this young detective.
PAUL SILBERNAGEL
ROLE: PAUL
Paul’s ranch offers a sense of escape for Becky as she works with horses which she dreams of owning one day.
FEATURING
MYA MEYER
JEFF RONDEAU
ALEX PALMER
CAMERON GOEBEL
DAVID HAGLER
BAILEY SCHMITT
More cast members for our movie Trapped to be announced.
EJAZ KHAN | DIRECTOR, WRITER, & EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
Ejaz Khan, hailing from a cinematic lineage in India, embarked on his artistic journey to New York in his early twenties. Now a renowned figure in both the wildlife and fashion photography spheres, Ejaz has carved out a successful career in the heart of New York. His innate knack for capturing breathtaking visuals, along with his penchant for weaving compelling narratives through his work, has garnered considerable attention and respect within the industry.
Ejaz possesses a deep affection for subjects that foster awareness. This passion resonates throughout his filmmaking, leading to the captivation of audiences across the globe. His film “Legacy” was recognized at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, where he was nominated for Best Director.
In addition, Ejaz’s debut feature film, “Before They Vanish” (formerly known as “Vanishing Knowledge”), has garnered widespread acclaim. The movie captures the struggles of a Vietnam War veteran who finds purpose, peace, and love in saving the Nokota horses. The film is hailed for its evocative storytelling and emotional resonance. His upcoming Trapped film will touch upon the rising crises impacting America’s youth and families. You can learn more about Ejaz’s work on his IMDb page at https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3722244/.
CO-WRITER: BARB SILBERNAGEL PRODUCER: JUNE MARIE DAVIS EDITOR & PRODUCER: JESSE LEBON
Be part of our Trapped movie by helping us spread awareness of this issue that’s impacting our communities. National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-800-373-7888 or text 233733 HELP or INFO
If you or someone you know are in serious help, please visit our sex abuse and trafficking support page for more information.
Get up-to-date and current industry information at our movie ideas blog.