Lights, Camera, Representation

Women's empowerment in Media and Entertainment shouldn't be limited to representation on the screen. Star of ABC's Black-ish,  Marsai Martin, was 10 years old when she pitched the plot for the movie "Little", a film she wanted to get made. At 14 years old she stars in the movie, and is youngest Executive Producer in Hollywood. Inspired by her story, I decided to sign up to help produce a short film called 410 Stamped by Nikki Taylor-Roberts. She's a participant in the American Film Institute Directing Workshop for Women, a prestigious program that only selects 8 participants a year. 

The film is about a teenage girl trying to make the best decisions for herself while navigating the desires of a loving, but demanding parent. As a teenager myself, I understand this very well. In my producer role, I consult with the team about the language used in the script, and even how certain scenes should look and feel to make sure that it's authentic to today's teenagers, and doesn't feel like a bunch of adults trying to figure out how teens act and talk.

So as you can see this is a huge opportunity but we need your help!

ABOUT 410 STAMPED
Set in Baltimore, the story centers on RASHIDA, a black teenager and an aspiring singer who is the lead of her band, and her unlikely friendship with her admirer, JOHN  -- a severely socially awkward white teen. These teenagers are on the verge. They are joined by a desire to break free of their fears and limitations of their small town -- a town mired in racial unrest and mandatory curfews.  Rashida must overcome her fear of stepping out on her band in order to reach her greatness, and John, must drop his fear of intimacy in order to have a shot at the love he desires. Over the course of one dangerous night in the city streets, their bond morphs into love; a love that empowers them take bold risks.

WHY WE NEED YOUR DONATION
Your donations will help pay for our cross-country production that will be shot in Baltimore and Los Angeles.  Flights, crew, gear, locations, housing for the 410 Stamped team. All of these things we need to pay for in order to make this awesome film.

Your help will not only ensure that we make the best short film possible, it will also help '410 Stamped' get seen by the decisions makers and executives who are looking for diverse writers and directors to tell the next set of iconic movies. This exposure and promotion is invaluable, and that's why we need your support. You might even see me in it!  

We can do it, with your help!  Every donation will help and we THANK YOU in advance. 

Can't wait to share this project with you and the world. 

And remember lights, camera and representation.

Taylor