Shalom Salam: A Recipe for Peace

Help Us Bring an Inspiring Short Film to Life

Shalom Salam means peace in both Arabic and Hebrew.

This short film is a heartfelt, human story about connection, creativity, and what can happen when people choose understanding over division.

The Purpose

Shalom Salam: A Recipe for Peace uses the power of storytelling to highlight what unites us as human beings. Through relatable characters and moments of warmth, humor, and reflection, the film explores empathy, collaboration, and the possibility of peace — not through politics, but through shared humanity.

Our goal is to create a film that inspires conversation, compassion, and hope.

The Story

In a divided world, two unlikely friends discover common ground through a shared love of food, creativity, and innovation. As young entrepreneurs, they learn that collaboration, curiosity, and respect can open doors where division once stood.

At its heart, Shalom Salam is a story about friendship — and how small, human moments can lead to meaningful change.

Why This Film Matters

Behind every headline are real people with families, dreams, and stories. This film focuses on those human stories, reminding us that connection is possible even when differences exist.

Through art and storytelling, Shalom Salam aims to:

Foster empathy and understanding

Highlight shared values across cultures

Encourage dialogue through creativity rather than conflict

Who We Are

We are Bayou Bennett and Daniel Lir, award-winning filmmakers and co-founders of Dream Team Directors, based in Los Angeles, California.

Over the past 18 years, we’ve collaborated on projects that blend cinematic storytelling with emotional depth and purpose. Our work has been recognized with over 80 awards and has included collaborations with renowned artists, actors, and brands.

"Shalom Salam" is one of the most meaningful projects we’ve ever undertaken.

Our Relationship to the Film

We are the directors, and producers of Shalom Salam: A Recipe for Peace. This film reflects our shared belief in the power of storytelling to bring people together and create space for understanding.

Where the Film Will Be Made

All principal photography and use of GoFundMe funds will take place entirely in Los Angeles, California, using U.S.-based cast, crew, and vendors.

All GoFundMe funds are used exclusively for U.S.-based production expenses.

How the Funds Will Be Used

Every contribution directly supports the creation of the film.

Initial Goal: $30,000

This covers:

Cameras and lighting

Core production crew (cinematography, sound, art department)

Insurance, permits, and locations

Initial shoot days

Post-production (editing, sound design, original music, color grading)

Reaching this goal allows us to move fully into production.

Additional funds will support:

Post-production completion

Film festival submissions

Distribution and outreach efforts to help the film reach wider audiences

How You Can Help

Donate — every contribution brings us closer to completing the film

Share — spreading the word is incredibly powerful

Support the story — your belief in this project helps bring it to life

Your support helps make a film rooted in empathy, creativity, and human connection possible.

Thank you for being part of this journey.

With gratitude,

Bayou Bennett & Daniel Lir

Shalom Salam: A Recipe for Peace

No raffles, sweepstakes, giveaways, or returns on investment are offered in exchange for any donations made to this GoFundMe.