Perceptions - a 16mm Film Experience
Perceptions follows the stories of four individuals from their points of view. Individualized visual and aural treatments allow the viewer to step inside the world of each character and see things the way they do. The film follows the premise that although everyone sees the same world, the way that they perceive everyday things is actually based on the imagination of the individual.
Evie, a ten-year-old girl spends all her time with Penelope, a friend who exists in her reality but not in the realities of those who can’t imagine her to be real.
Sarah has always wanted to be a prima ballerina – despite being blind from birth. Refused by multiple companies, she has settled for plan B – running a small ballet school for young girls.
George’s reality has always been clear-cut – work hard, six days a week, provide for his family, and do the daily crossword puzzle.
Francis has learned to deal with his dissociative disorder and mild schizophrenia, but he is haunted by the way his reality shifts as he interacts with people. He handles his situation by carefully regulating his life and avoiding human contact.
These four people, who only occasionally and unnoticeably cross each other’s paths, come to develop relationships that shift the way they view the world. Sarah discovers that holding on to an antiquated dream has prevented her from realizing that sharing her love of ballet provides more happiness than dancing a lead role ever had. Evie accepts that friends who exist in other realities as well as her own are just as valuable as Penelope, while George is spurred to change his circumstances and follow his dreams. Francis finally begins to see that his illness is actually an ability that allows him to relate to people on a level that most will never achieve, and that relationships should be embraced, not feared.
Contribute to the Future of American Filmmakers
Perceptions is a Savannah College of Art and Design senior thesis film scheduled to shoot in February of 2011. We have assembled a talented team of students who are experienced working both with film and digital formats, and Perceptions will be shot using 16mm film and the Arri 416 camera. Film is still a viable part of the industry, and Perceptions will add the final polish to our reels (the movie industry equivalent of a portfolio) as well as allow us to demonstrate our proficiency of the skills necessary to work with film. In addition to being our final thesis work, we are seeking a wider audience through the festival circuit. Development of strong reels and distribution via film festivals are the tools that will ultimately help us find jobs - so your contribution is also an investment in our futures as American filmmakers.
Why We Need Financial Assistance
Unfortunately, the downside of film stock is the expense. Shooting digitally costs very little, but in order to make Perceptions, approximately a twelve-minute movie, we will need twelve rolls of 16mm film at a cost of approximately $6,000.00 - stock and processing. As students, our financial situations are tight, and this is where you can help us.
Project location: Savannah, GA
Funding Unsuccessful (02/26/2011)
