Help Matt Get Back To Work After Fire Loss

Matt Morrissey and I have been working together lighting up computer screens in movies for over 30 years. On the morning of January 7 we were sitting at his dining room table in Pacific Palisades discussing logistics for our next film project, which would have us departing L.A. in a month's time. It had been a slow end to 2024 in our industry and we hadn't had substantial work since last summer. We both needed the work. I asked him where his personal gear was currently located (the cases of video playback-specific tools he takes from show to show). "My cases are right here in my garage," he said.

Within minutes a neighbor was at the door, crying, telling us the hillside was on fire. We sprang up and assessed the situation. Moments later the evacuation alerts began buzzing our phones. The rest you saw on the news. By midnight, the dining room table we'd been sitting at was gone. Sadly, Matt's neighborhood and Pacific Palisades as we knew it no longer exist.

While Matt and his wife Michelle made it out safely with a few small bags and photo albums, they've lost virtually everything. For Matt to get back to work and sort out what the future looks like, he'll need the tools to do his job. And time is of the essence. This is where I'm hoping you and I can help.

Please consider helping my dear friend quickly rebuild his kit and get back to work.

These shelves held Matt's playback gear -- standing by to be used on a film next month. 30 years worth of acquired things to do the work we do, once all in one place, now all gone.

What we're trying to help Matt replace: hand tools, power tools, meters, converters, adapters, camera mounts...

Matt is a kind soul who has always been first in line to help others his entire life. I'm hoping we can band together and send some love his way to help him get back on his feet. All funds raised will go directly to Matt for immediate use rebuilding his work kit. Please give what you can.

Sincerely,

Martin Garner, Matt's friend and co-worker

Video Playback GFX Tech and member of IATSE Local 695

Culver City, CA