Chicago video production company creates delicious short documentary for nonprofit Erie House, "Sweet Darlings"
In our eighth collaboration we tell the story of Fortune, Jesse and Tara. They moved to Chicago from Nigeria to escape an unsafe situation and found community and home at Erie House. We follow them as they tell us the importance of Early Childhood Education access and it's impact on their lives. Fortune has ambitions to open a restaurant and cook the food she loves from Nigeria, so our team made sure to feature her delicious dishes as she tells us about her "sweet darlings," Jesse and Tara.
“Everything Looks great! We love the script, the direction and the heartfelt way this story is told with dignity. Such an important message. ”
Challenges
Creating a narrative that does not perpetuate harmful stereotypes with trauma informed practices.
Working with new leadership and educating them on our best practices working with them for the past nine yers.
Flexibility in filming schedule to accommodate our family.
Filmed during the January surge of Covid, safely navigated without any incident.
Creating a space for Fortune to be celebrated at the gala this film premiered.
How our services were used
Video production and filmmaking services
Dedicated Writer / Director for duration of the project.
Concept ideation, Screenwriting, Mood board
2 days of production w/ crew, VO recording, Full Editing Suite - Rush Editing
1 Feature Film, 1 Event Teaser
Results
We have developed a system for storytelling with Erie House that produces results year over year. Our team seamlessly integrates our eight years of learning with new leadership.
The family in the film got the experience of walking the red carpet at the event and seeing their story celebrated. (See how cute they are!)
Over $400,000 raised at the gala event this premiered at.
Film is used to further educate and fundraise for early childhood education services.
Film is added to client's social media and shared across platforms.
TEAM
Executive Producers : James Gustin, Michele Gustin
Writer + Director: Melissa Fox
Camera : Brian Carey, Codi Palm
Editor: Codi Palm
