Kickstarter

ALL OF MY SUPPORTERS WILL BE LISTED IN THE FILM'S CREDITS.

WHAT'S THE PROJECT?
Smoke & Burn is a film set in the 1980's in Taos, New Mexico. The film is about the cycle of life, and what happens when you try to end it. 

Ben, a perfectionist child is worn down and frustrated by his need to have everything be perfect. He feels like a failure and wants to end his life. It takes the clumsiness of his Mom's Boyfriend to show him that life sometimes can be messy, and definitely isn't always perfect. 

This film is being made as part of my graduate work at UCLA in the Directing/Production MFA Program. I intend to submit this film to major festivals.

WHY THIS STORY?
I was once in love with a depressed man. Through the relationship I found out that he was also a depressed child. This is the only story I know from his childhood. I hope that in creating and understanding the character of Ben, I will finally understand the man I once knew. 

WHY ME?

Filmmaking is informed by experiences in our lives - good or bad. I never knew about the ins and outs of depression, and how much it can affect children as well as adults. Since being in a very close relationship with someone dealing with depression, I wanted to explore this world and shed some light on the dangers of childhood depression. Exploring worlds beyond my understanding is what my filmmaking is about. 

WHERE IS THE MONEY GOING?
We're shooting on 16mm film stock on location in the Los Angeles Area. Because of the natural, rustic look of this film, receiving the same visual results from Digital will cost more than shooting on film. 

Money pays for film stock, processing, telecine, props, costumes, permits, location fees, equipment rentals, crew meals, water, and transportation.

Percentages:

30% - Towards the child actor 

10% - feeding the cast and crew

10% - Equipment rentals

20% - Film stock, processing, and Telecine

20% - Location fees, permits, transportation

10% - Costumes and Props                                                                             

I have set my eyes on an extraordinary up and coming child actor. I believe he will make this film. He completely embodies Ben, and I need the money for his transportation and accommodations. 

WHERE THE MONEY IS **NOT** GOING:
In my pocket. Seriously, though. This film is estimated to cost $12,000 to make.  We are only asking for $6000. Whatever I do not raise on kickstarter I will finance myself. Crew and Cast are all working for FREE!! Camera and some equipment will be provided for FREE by UCLA. 

ALL OR NOTHING

If we do not reach our goal of $6000, no amount is collected.  Pledges are only billed when the goal is met and the campaign has ended. Help me spread the word!

THANKS FOR CONTINUING TO HELP SPREAD THE WORD!
If this is the kind of film you would like to see more of, repost this link!