j. caleb thomas

Creator & Producer of Down in the Park Media

United States

J. Caleb Thomas ("Josh") is a multidisciplinary writer, filmmaker, musician, and watercolor/ink artist originally from Florida and now based in Philadelphia. Their work spans screenwriting, theatre, audio storytelling, noise rock, and visual art, unified by themes of humor, absurdity, existentialism, and the lingering tension around coming-of-age narratives.

Josh is a published author and a 4× finalist in the TSL Free Screenplay Contest (2021–2024) as well as a finalist in the 2025 ScreenCraft Horror Screenwriting Contest. Their writing has earned honors including Patrons' Pick at the 2022 Orlando International Fringe Festival, the 2023 Let's Make It! Screenwriting Contest Rising Star Award, and an upcoming staging of their ten-minute play "It Is Time to Say Goodnight" at KCACTF 2026 Region 2.

In 2025, their musical project, Rudeyard, released its debut singles "What Else Would You Expect" and "Jacksonville 1995," and they co-produced their first audio drama, "Falling Books," released through their multi-media production label, Down in the Park.

As a visual artist, Josh creates vibrant watercolor and ink works that blend humor, naïve art, and pop expressionism, critiquing iconic American imagery.

Portfolio
YouTube
2024
"Way Back When" (Short Screwball Comedy Film)

When a down-on-her-luck actor reunites with an old frenemy at a commercial audition, she must confront their volatile history of competing for dwindling roles in theatre if she wants to move on.

Coverfly
2023
"The Institution" (Unproduced Feature Horror Screenplay)

In 1975, a hardworking detective investigates the surreal death of a patient from an isolated psychiatric hospital in New Hampshire. Recognitions: Finalist for the 2025 ScreenCraft Horror Screenwriting Contest / Finalist for the 2024 TSL Free Screenplay Contest.

YouTube
2023
"Where Flowers Bloom" (Short Documentary)

The true story of a young man's life cut short, but not without saving the lives of six strangers and inspiring his Guyanese parents to continue honoring his legacy. Recognition: Premiered at the 2023 the Global Peace Film Festival.

IMDb
2023
"The Woman in the Room" (Short Drama Film)

Based on the short story by Stephen King. A lonely and exhausted young woman caring for her ill father must make a difficult decision as his health rapidly declines. Recognition: Premiered at the 2023 Central Florida Film Festival.

Freaks of HHN
2022
"Carmilla: An American Gothic" (One-Act Drama Play)

In the summer of 1956, in conservative Arizona, an isolated teenager named Laura struggles with her identity when she forms a unique bond with a strange runaway named Carmilla. Shortly upon Carmilla’s arrival, several girls across the neighborhood go missing, causing Laura to question who and what Carmilla really is. Recognition: Winner of the 2022 Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival's Patron's Pick Award.