Help Amanda make her short animated film dream a reality

Hi, everyone!

My name is Amanda Barakat and I’m a motion storyteller on a journey to tell a deeply personal story through the art of animation.

I'm currently developing an animated short film that explores love, family, and the generational effects of war and its lasting impact on families. This project is not only a reflection of my own family’s history, but also a tribute to countless others whose stories often go untold.

As a Lebanese filmmaker, creating a short animated film about the ravages of war is not an attempt to capitalize on current events, but rather a deeply personal and urgent act of artistic activism. War has scarred generations of people in the Middle East, including my own, leaving behind more than destruction—it has fractured families, disrupted childhoods, and stolen dreams. This film is a way to process, express, and amplify the silent grief and resilience of those affected, especially the innocent caught in the crossfire. Animation allows me to transcend the limitations of reality, portraying the emotional landscapes of war in a way that photographs or news reports cannot. It serves as a vehicle to challenge the dehumanization that so often accompanies conflict, bringing global attention to the human cost of war. Now, more than ever, art is crucial in breaking through the noise and igniting empathy, inspiring action, and fostering a collective resolve to work towards peace.

Why This Story Matters

At its heart, this film, What Could Have Been, is about the resilience of family, the scars left by conflict, and the hope for a better future. It's a story that’s both timely and universal, shedding light on an experience that resonates far beyond my personal connection. By telling this story, I hope to spark important conversations and offer a unique perspective on a global issue.

The Road So Far

As a producer and director in live action, I've spent over 15 years helping others tell their stories through broadcast and branded content, and now I'm ready to tell my own. I’ve secured some early funding and have already begun work on assembling a core team of folks with expertise in animation to ensure project success. As I am learning, bringing an animated film to life takes significant resources, and I need your help to move forward.

Why I Need Your Help

Animation is a highly detailed and time-intensive process, and while I’m dedicated to telling this story, the costs are significant. The funds raised through this campaign will go toward:

Your Support Means the World

With your support, I will be able to tell this story with the care and quality it deserves. Whether you’re able to contribute $5 or $500, every little bit helps move me closer to my goal. And if you’re unable to contribute financially, sharing this campaign with your friends and family can make all the difference.

Thank you for believing in this project and for helping me bring this important story to the screen. Together, we can create something meaningful that will resonate with audiences around the world.

Amanda