** Welcome to our fundraising site! Please read on to learn about this project and how to support us! **

 THE STORY

An Ethiopian couple living with disabilities join a dance therapy class to heal their marriage.

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

There is an Ethiopian saying that goes, "He who conceals his disease cannot expect to be cured". When I read this for the first time I immediately thought of my parents. Both of my parents have lived with disabilities my entire life. It has impacted their relationship with each other, their community, and their children. However, despite all of this, they have maintained a reluctance to seek the proper medical support that could help them reintegrate themselves in their community, foster compassion for one another, and allow them to spend quality time with their loved ones. This issue, that continues to weigh heavy on my heart, was the reason why I felt that a story like this is desperately needed now. 

Growing up, the movies that my family and I loved watch were always comedies. During our most difficult life events, we found solace in humor. To be able laugh, joke, and express freely is not only a privilege, but an incredible instrument against hopelessness. My mission with this film is to show people not only living with disabilities in a world that is not designed for them, but thriving in it because they believe in their own worth. 

Most films about Ethiopians rarely depict the people and culture with authenticity and dignity. This film would be the the first of its kind, at this level of artistry, to represent the diasporic experience in the United States with accuracy while simultaneously shedding a light on a community of people who are often stereotyped or ignored altogether. 

I wrote this story with my parents in mind, but this is a film that I know anyone can identify with. In times such as these, a story that reminds us of how similar we are and not different, through joy and entertainment, is just what the world needs now. 

– Ezra Balcha, Writer & Director

*** ALL CONTRIBUTIONS are 100% TAX DEDUCTIBLE. The California State University Northridge Foundation is a CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION 501(c)(3) PUBLIC BENEFIT CALIFORNIA CORPORATION ***

Your contributions will ensure crucial necessities such as:

Locations:  Distinctive, well-suited locations, enhancing the film’s authenticity and visual impact.

Cast Compensation:  Compensate the talented SAG-AFTRA actors whose dedication and hard work will bring this project to life.

Rentals: Rent professional cameras, lighting, sound equipment, and other essential gear, ensuring the film achieves top-tier visual and audio quality.

Art Department: Aquire wardrobe, props, and set design, ensuring every visual element aligns seamlessly with the film’s theme which an essential factor in enhancing its overall production value.

Catering & Craft Services: Ensure the cast and crew stay fueled with meals and refreshments during long shoot days because a well-fed team is a focused, driven, and high-performing one.

Contingency Fund: A small portion will be reserved for unforeseen expenses or emergencies, helping keep the production on track and within budget.

Post Production: Fund the post-production process, including video editing, color grading, visual effects, and sound design, ensuring a polished and immersive final product.

Marketing and Distribution: Support the promotion of the film through festival submissions, trailers, and social media campaigns, helping it reach and engage a wide audience.

OUR CREW

Writer & Director: Ezra Balcha

Producer: Brian Cena

Producer: Isabella Yang

Producer: Cesar Renteria

1st AD: Kyanna Hojati

2nd AD: Bree Santa Cruz

Director of Photography: Jamie Beuerlein

Gaffer: Abel Gutierrez

1st AC: Monet Sprague

2nd AC: Ethan Perez

2nd AC: Christopher Ocegueda

BBE: Owen Giesler

BBG: Luther Tobey

Editor: Matthias Bigler

Editor: Christian Saucedo

Sound: Adam Lent

Sound: Zitaly Ekoh

Production Designer: Alexia Larios

Art Director: Jamila Faizullabhoy

Costumes: Isabella Camacho

Costumes: Olivia Sturkie

Costumes: Elaina Tu

Script Supervisor: Nathan Trieu

DIT: Alex Bryant

Thank you for your support and we can't wait to make this incredible film!

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