Stratagem: From Page to Screen, A Thrilling Ride in Film and Life - Rick E. Cutts

What if the line between reality and illusion began to blur, and you weren’t sure if you were running from danger—or running from yourself? That’s the premise of Stratagem, the newest thriller from filmmaker and author Rick Cutts, now streaming on Fawesome.tv. Released in 2025, the film has already made waves, winning awards and capturing the imagination of audiences worldwide.

At its core, Stratagem follows Rellik and his girlfriend Nosaer, a young couple whose lives are upended when they witness a crime. The perpetrator sees them mid-act, instantly turning their ordinary lives into a high-stakes pursuit. The couple is forced to navigate a twisting maze of uncertainty, unsure if the threat is real or a figment of their imagination. The film’s genius lies in its ability to keep viewers questioning: Is Rellik truly being chased, or is the danger more psychological than physical?

The movie’s release has already been celebrated on the festival circuit. It won Best Feature Film Audience Award at the Thriller/Suspense Film Festival and Best Feature Film at the Orlando Urban Film Festival. Actor Layne Harper also received the Rising Star Hattie McDaniels Award at Orlando, highlighting the talent and dedication of the cast. These accolades reflect the dedication, creativity, and vision that went into making Stratagem a standout in the indie thriller genre.

Behind the Scenes: Making a Movie is a Marathon

Rick Cutts shared candidly how much work goes into turning a story from page to screen. “Making the movie takes so much out of you,” he said. After crafting a fun story and writing the screenplay, the real work begins. The screenplay must be broken down into different sets, storyboarded in detail, and carefully planned for filming. Next comes the legal and logistical groundwork: forming an LLC, obtaining permits, coordinating with local police for action sequences, getting insurance, and budgeting for everything from equipment to food and water for the cast. Only then can the casting process begin to place the right actors in the right roles.

Even with careful preparation, challenges are inevitable. Cutts recounts a particularly stressful day filming a major car chase scene: “My driver never showed up, so I had to film the chase without the pursuing car and add it in post-production a month later.” From missing actors to wrong costumes, every day on set required flexibility, quick thinking, and leadership. Maintaining a positive attitude was crucial—not just for the crew, but for the cast looking to him for guidance.

The Magic of Post-Production

Once filming wrapped, the “true work” began in post-production. Editing is where the film truly comes to life, yet even here, unexpected hurdles emerged. Cutts accidentally deleted the entire movie while attempting to fix one part, a setback that could have ended the project. Fortunately, he had backed up the footage on an SSD, saving the film from disaster.

The result of all this effort is a gripping, 111-minute thriller that blends action and psychological suspense with innovative storytelling. The story keeps audiences on edge, questioning what is real and what is illusion, while offering moments of human vulnerability and resilience.

The Power of Opportunity

Cutts emphasizes the importance of giving opportunities to actors, both experienced and first-time performers. “I believe that if you give someone a chance, greatness can happen. It’s not luck. It’s preparation meeting opportunity.” The film’s festival wins, the rising star award for Layne Harper, and the cast’s satisfaction with the final product all validate this philosophy.

Looking ahead, Cutts is already planning future projects, including another film with Layne Harper at the end of September, a new movie titled Letter of the Law in January, IciKILL in late 2026, and Stratagem Part 2 in 2027. For fans of suspense, these promises mean the world of Stratagem is only just beginning.

Where to Watch

For those eager to experience the thrilling ride, Stratagem is now available on Fawesome.tv, a streaming platform that offers full-length films without subscription fees. Audiences can immerse themselves in the twists and turns of Rellik and Nosaer’s journey, witnessing firsthand the tension, suspense, and ingenuity that have made this film a standout.

Why You Should Watch

In a market crowded with predictable thrillers, Stratagem dares to be different. Its complex characters, twisting narrative, and psychological depth make it a film that lingers in your mind long after the credits roll. Whether you’re drawn to suspense, action, or stories that challenge your perception of reality, Stratagem delivers an unforgettable experience.

Rick Cutts proves that filmmaking is not just about vision—it’s about preparation, resilience, and leadership. Stratagem is more than a movie; it’s a testament to what can happen when talent, hard work, and opportunity converge.

Find out more about Rick at https://www.icikill.com/.

Article published in The Relatable Voice Magazine - September 2025.

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