FAQ

• How will you use the $20,000?

  We're aiming to complete filming in 4 weeks. The nature of documentary filmmaking is such that we will be filming everything all the time, without the opportunity to do multiple setups and coverage shots.  The equipment we have chosen will allow us this flexibility in filming, giving us the maximum quality recording with minimum expense in terms of time.  

  Using the RED epic & sound equipment we have selected, we eliminate the need for additional lighting, filters, lenses, crew people, and locations.  We can shoot anywhere, anytime and it will be beautiful.  Because of the quality of the Epic's footage, we also have the maximum versatility in post to layer footage, adjust framing, and add effects that will blend the 18th century world of Germaine de Staël into our own.  

  Last updated: Friday May 11, 12:54am EDT
• Why Germaine de Staël?

  Mdm. de Staël never ruled any countries or won any naval battles but had a profound influence on the course of European history nonetheless. She was a woman of fierce conviction, always surrounded by controversy because of her incredible resolve to stand up for what she believed in--no matter the threat to her life. France's First Constitution was drafted in her drawing room, she helped orchestrate the storming of the bastille, she rescued hundreds from the guillotine during the Reign of Terror. Day in and day out she devoted her life to France.  She was equally despised and adored by those in power--a product of their admiration of her intellect and fear of her influence.  

  She had an enduring impact on western civilization and yet her story has been lost amidst the tales of the men she helped put in power. 

  Last updated: Friday May 11, 6:33pm EDT
• Why do you need to make this movie?

  Documentaries are entering a new and exciting season, they're grossing more at the box-office than ever before. As of yet, most documentaries work off a familiar format- "interviews," office shots of experts rattling off knowledge (even though we love glasses & bow ties), coverage of artifacts with voice overs explaining the context.  We think, to properly appeal to a younger audience, we need amp things up a bit- so we've decided to forbid any of the above.  Instead we're diving in to Mdm. de Staël's story though a relatable, entertaining contemporary woman.  Using the incredible technology available to us to create an artistically engaging, socially relevant and historically accurate piece of film. 

  Last updated: Friday May 11, 6:33pm EDT
• What happens if you don't reach $20,000?

  I've gotten this question, more than any other, from day 1.  LSS- this film will be shot and we will continue.  There are too many of you all invested and excited about it for us to lose this opportunity.  The kickstarter campaign, even if we don't reach $20,000, has been UNBELIEVABLY successful.  We've reached more people than we dreamed of- you are interested, organizations, corporations, and investors are interested and want to get involved in the long-term efforts of [INSERT NAME] and that is FAR more important than any $20,000.  This isn't about money, it's about people and stories.  Your stories have changed our lives and we will tell them... we may just need to get a little more innovative regarding the filming of this initial documentary.  But we have not, and never will, shirk away from a challenge.  

  And you won't lose anything.  The beauty of kickstarter is that you are only charged if our campaign crosses $20,000.  We're working on setting up another site, with no timeline, or amount, where we can receive financial gifts- and of course we will honor every reward... we want you involved every step of the way.  

  Much love,

  alex

  Last updated: Saturday May 12, 1:49pm EDT