My name is Chanell Bell. I am producing my sophomore short film called "TEN TIL TEOTWAWKI".

I am raising funds to beef up my budget and match the micro grant I won in July through The Disruptors organization. The Disruptors, a non profit based in Los Angeles, generously funds projects by black and brown story tellers who exist in multiple margins be it gender, sexuality, disabilities or the likes. In July they selected my project to fund. Now I need your help to cross the finish line.

My film is about second chances. I believe deeply in the power of second chances which come to us on the wings of forgiveness and grace.

In the periphery of this topic is a conversation around addictions. Substance Use Disorder is a medical condition and mental disability that was recognized by the American Psychiatric Association in 2013. This means that before 2013 many Americans were left to battle certain addictions without formalized language, understanding or support. I've set my film in 1999 with the intention to juxtapose soaring addictions against limited resources.

THE MAIN CHARACTERS:

Mo is a Vietnam Vet and gambling addict. Chelley is a smart and savy alcoholic. Both of these people find themselves unexpectedly in familiar company as they count down the clock to Y2K on a street corner in Inglewood California. Both are desperate to start over.

THE ASK:

5K

FOR MY FATHER

I am dedicating this film to my father, Barry, who passed away this January after a long and courageous battle with diabetes. He may not have gotten a redo at life, but he sure did get many chances to start again and again. And I am better for his courage.

As I share this film with my family and fans I hope one take away will be: As long as there is life in the body, there is a chance to start over. Be it as simple as the way we look at a thing. Be it as strong as deepening our understanding and love.

Check Out my film "Garden Hands" that won Best Actor at the Hip Hop Film Festival in Harlem NY is linked below.