About this project

Obrigado Productions in association with Orange Chair Productions, presents:

NY Times Bestselling Author, Thomas Cahill, granted me an incredible opportunity to adapt his latest book into a dramatic feature film. The video attached here is from a documentary made to promote the book. I am looking for financial assistance to write a script for a narrative based Dominique's story. I'll have to do a lot of expensive research in short time. The research will be a full time job for two months and will require travel to Texas and to Europe. I have stated interest from major Hollywood producers who need the script before considering to back the project. I am asking for the absolute minimum to finish, but if we meet our goal it will guarantee a complete and marketable script.

Why this film is important and original?
The death penalty is an issue that evokes strong emotion on both sides. The debate, however, is under-represented in motion pictures. "Dead Man Walking" was the last great narrative film on the subject. Much has changed in the sixteen years since. Moreover, A Saint on Death Row takes an entirely different approach. The film is set inside the secretive walls of the Polunsky Unit in Livingston, TX introducing an audience to America's burgeoning prison-industrial complex and the effect it has on prisoners and guards alike. The major characters are the death row inmates, the prison guards, and victims of the crimes for which they were convicted. Also, the lead characters are African-American – an important aspect since over 40% of death row inmates are black. The audience will be left to consider if our criminal justice systems functions properly, if a man can truly change and if reconciliation with the victim's family is indeed possible.
Timing is also important. The death penalty is currently in the public spotlight. The Illinois' Legislature just voted to abolish the death penalty. The debate is also receiving unprecedented attention in Texas. Through DNA evidence and better investigation, two executed men were proven innocent of their crimes. This prompted a Houston judge to call a trial on the constitutionality of the death penalty - something that would have been unfathomable only a few years ago. (See article: http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/metropolitan/7327353.html)

Dominique Green's story is the most apt prism through which to explore each facet of this deeply divisive issue.

Story Synopsis:
A battle is raging on Texas Death Row. Prisoners claiming innocence resist the inhumane conditions and protest their executions. Use of force by the guards is increasing and tension between the two sides is boiling over. Dominique Green, a ten-year veteran of death row, is engaged in another battle - one of complete self-transformation. Through meeting Desmond Tutu, he became fully devoted to the healing power of forgiveness. He forgave those that wronged him and sought out the victims of the crime for which he was sentenced to die. He also persuaded his fellow inmates to do the same. But as the battle inside escalates, his execution date nears and all but one appeal is denied, Dominique is forced to make the one choice that will either define his legacy or save his life.