Interview with Sean Donohue — Die Die Delta Pi II: The Burnt One
Indie horror filmmaker Sean Donohue returns to one of his most beloved cult creations with Die Die Delta Pi II: The Burnt One, a sequel 13 years in the making. Known for his grindhouse style, practical gore, and nostalgic nods to ’80s slashers, Donohue is once again blending sorority-house chaos with dark humor and bloody mayhem. The new film—currently being funded through Kickstarter—continues the story with fresh characters, a new setting, and a revamped tone while honoring the original’s spirit.
In this exclusive Q&A, Sean opens up about the inspiration behind the sequel, the challenges of linking it to the first film, his unique casting philosophy, and the crucial role fan support plays in keeping indie horror alive. Whether you’re a long-time fan or discovering the Delta Pi universe for the first time, his honesty, humor, and DIY approach offer a rare behind-the-scenes look at modern underground filmmaking.
What inspired you to revisit Die Die Delta Pi after all these years and make this sequel?
Sean Donohue: Well, it’s been 13 years and it has one of my biggest followings out of my whole catalog, so it felt like the time was right.
Can you walk us through the core story of Die Die Delta Pi II: The Burnt One and what makes it fresh compared to the original?
Sean Donohue: It’s a brand new story that takes place 13 years after the original. A new house, new sorority sisters, and a new house mother. It’s a continuation with a fresh perspective.
The Kickstarter describes a mix of sorority fun and classic slasher horror — how do you balance humor, horror, and nostalgia?
Sean Donohue: I like to homage films from the past I really enjoy. I’m an 80’s kid, so I grew up renting videos from the horror and comedy sections in my video store. I like to add humor into my horror.
What was the biggest creative challenge when scripting this sequel?
Sean Donohue: Linking it to the original story. It took a while, but I carved out an idea I am happy with.
Why did you choose Kickstarter as the platform to fund this film?
Sean Donohue: Because Indiegogo changed owners and it’s a terrible platform now, in my opinion. Kickstarter is okay, but I am still learning it.
For aspiring indie filmmakers, what advice would you give about creating and financing passion projects like this?
Sean Donohue: Do it cheap or don’t do it at all!
When you begin a new project like Die Die Delta Pi II: The Burnt One, what qualities are you looking for in actors to fit the tone of your films?
Sean Donohue: People that show up and do the job. Sounds simple, right? That has always been the hardest part—finding dedicated people. Everything else can fall into place after that.
What made certain actors stand out to you for this sequel? Were there any instantly “must-cast” moments?
Sean Donohue: Well, we haven’t shot anything yet, so it’s hard to say. But I like the current cast and they’re all talented.
Are returning actors from the first Delta Pi project reprising roles, and what goes into deciding who you bring back?
Sean Donohue: Cyndi Crotts and Bob Glazier. Neither of their characters died off in the original.
Do you cast based on look, attitude, chemistry, or something more instinctual?
Sean Donohue: All.
What do your auditions typically look like? Do you prefer traditional read-throughs, taped auditions, or more free-form performance tests?
Sean Donohue: Taped auditions.
As someone who supported your last film Fatal Desires and also backed this project, I’m curious—how important is fan funding to your casting and production decisions?
Sean Donohue: It’s 100% fan-funded. If I don’t reach my goal, I will not make it.
Do backers influence the direction of the film in any way, whether through feedback, stretch goals, or community support?
Sean Donohue: Backers do not influence the film or write the script. If they like the concept and want to donate, that is always appreciated, but I have enough on my hands and do not need to get clouded with everyone else’s ideas. It will just slow the process. Too many chefs spoil a soup.
For horror fans who dream of acting in films like yours, what’s the best way for them to get on your radar for future projects?
Sean Donohue: If acting in one of my films is your dream, it sounds like a nightmare to me! Lol. I do private castings—no real method to the mayhem. Be available, be cheap, be close to where we are shooting, and don’t be a pain. Mainly, I write for actors I already know and only work in a couple of new people here and there.
