Our Crowdfunding Groups
Jay, a struggling undocumented immigrant in the U.S., desperate to visit his pregnant sister after a medical complication, hatches an absurd plan to stage a hate crime against himself for a special visa.
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Welcome to the fundraising campaign of Beaten Down, a CSUN Film Production CTVA Senior Thesis Film. Thank you for visiting our page! Please read on to learn more about our film and how you can help. We appreciate your time and support.
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OUR STORY
Jay, a 26-year-old undocumented immigrant from India, struggles to survive in Los Angeles. When his pregnant sister suffers a serious complication, he faces an impossible choice—return home and risk never coming back or stay and abandon his family. Desperate for a visa, he hatches a reckless plan: staging a felony against himself. His misguided scheme leads to bizarre encounters, forcing him to decide between his dream of staying in America and the family he left behind.
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BACKGROUND
Immigration is often romanticized as a journey of hope and opportunity, but the reality is far more complex. For many, the path to a better life is paved with impossible decisions, unimaginable sacrifices, and the constant fear of losing everything. Our film is a deeply personal exploration of these themes, focusing on the struggles of immigrants who navigate not only the challenges of survival but also the emotional toll of being far from home. It’s a story about absurdity, desperation, and the lengths we go to when the stakes are everything we hold dear.
At its core, this film is not just about survival in a broken system—it’s about family. The political changes in recent years have only amplified the fear of being away from our loved ones.
It’s a personal story but also one that resonates with millions around the world. Through this project, we hope to foster empathy and understanding for the human stories behind immigration and the sacrifices people make in pursuit of a better life. It’s comedic, yes, but at its heart, it’s about humanity—about love, fear, and the absurd beauty of trying to hold onto both.
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YOUR DONATION
Your generous donations will go to the following:
Art department: Production design, wardrobe, hair & makeup, etc.
Equipment Rentals: camera, lenses, lighting, grip & electric, etc.
Cast: Hiring talent, background, etc.
Catering: Delicious lunch and crafty to keep the cast and crew fed.
Locations: Permits, insurance, transportation, etc.
Sound: Equipment rentals, composing, etc.
Post Production: Transcoding, color, hard drives, etc.
Safety: Above all, ensuring the well-being of our cast and crew is non-negotiable. Every precaution will be taken to maintain a safe and professional working environment on set.
Your donation will help ensure that all the things stated above become reality.
**ALL CONTRIBUTIONS TO BEATEN DOWN ARE 100% TAX DEDUCTIBLE. The California State University Northridge Foundation is a CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION 501 (C)(3) PUBLIC BENEFIT CALIFORNIA CORPORATION.**
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THE CREW
We’re incredibly grateful to have such a talented and dedicated crew. Our team is made up of passionate filmmakers who are ready to tackle any challenge that comes our way. Above all, we’re committed to creating a safe, professional, and collaborative set where everyone can do their best work.
Writer and Director: Anmol Bajaj
Producer: Aidan Evenas ~ Producer: Rohit Ghusar ~ Producer: Angel Gonzalez
1st AD: Karla Maldonado ~ Script Supervisor: Kynnedi Jackson
Co-Directors of Photography: Hayden Atzberger & Anshul Shankhdhar
Editor: Tyler Knox ~ Editor: Justin Cahue ~ DIT: Trevor Baltzer
Production Sound Mixer: Samuel Price ~ Post Sound: NJ Huda ~ Boom Operator: Josh Geller
Art Director: Julie Pinedo ~ Costume: Angela Ortiz
Production Designer and BTS Photo: Harsimar Sagoo ~ Prop Master: Ashley Melero
Chiwawa: Julie’s Dog
Casting: Kerry Barker
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OTHER WAYS TO SUPPORT
We understand that donating to our project might not be something everyone has the privilege to do so getting financially involved may not be an option. However, there are many other ways to help! Spread the word! Share our donation website with friends and family who may be able to help us out.
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SOCIAL MEDIA
Follow us on Instagram @beaten_down_film
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THANK YOU
This film wouldn’t be possible without your generosity, and we are deeply grateful for your support. On behalf of our hardworking students, cast, and crew, thank you for believing in Beaten Down. We can't wait to share this journey with you and will keep you updated as we bring this story to life on the big screen.
