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"Welcome Back" Thesis Film

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Hi there!

My name is Vicky Lee, the writer and director of the film "Welcome Back." I am a Film Production major and this is my Senior Thesis Film. Thank you for visiting the film's campaign page!


WHY THIS FILM? 

My idea for this film originally came from a collection of memories I have of growing up in the Lower East Side of NYC. I attended a number of small schools in the area and the friendships I formed became the mold of who I am now. I wanted to explore the theme of friendship and the different shapes it takes on over time. More specifically, I wanted to capture moments of learning, growing, and healing. In reflection of my own high school experience, I wanted to address how nearsighted people can become when their emotions and thoughts cloud their judgement. The world begins to feel smaller as immediate problems and events take over their minds. 

I wanted to portray a character who is haunted by the past, and their emotional struggle is manifesting in various ways. There is an emphasis on confronting necessary evils in order to recognize how certain experiences have shaped the characters; and the people they surrounded themselves with.

The emotional journey of changing friendships also reminded me of my family's relationship with my late grandmother. Having known my grandmother as a once-able-bodied person, her disability took us by surprise and uneasiness. Her stroke and eventual paralyzation influenced the way we spoke, moved, and interacted with my grandmother. I wanted to capture the truth of how emotional barriers can come between people when there's a insecurity of handling pain, denial, and avoidance; particularly when there's a sense to remain stoic or strong for the other. When in reality, it creates a bigger gap for communication.


SYNOPSIS

"Welcome Back" follows Jason, a student who returns to high school after an accident that has left him paraplegic. Jason learns how to translate the change to his life as he integrates himself back into school. He reflects on his past high school career and the friendships that have evolved since the accident.


YOUR SUPPORT


Thank you for reading about the heart of the film. There's more information below if you'd like to help us make this film!

As students, we don't have enough money to cover everything ourselves (although we're putting in everything we can!) to reach our target. No contribution is too small, as we are grateful for any support for this film. 

Your contributions will go towards:

- Feeding our lovely cast and crew (majority who are also film students)
- Paying our talented actors
- Transportation
- Equipment Rentals
- Art and Set Design
- Location Fees

One special note about our location is that we're committed to shooting this film at the stomping grounds of my old high school. And we would really like to raise enough money to cover permit fees and security.

As an alumnus, I find it poignant to return to the roots of my high school and film career for this project. My high school was where I learned about film, formed friendships, and built the grit for myself. This film represents my experience of forgiveness, strength, and perseverance during my time in high school, and the opportunity to film at the school would allow me to express this memento closer to the story.

I'd love to include all supporters in the credits of the film. If you'd like to donate, please include the name you'd like to be used in the film!

WHAT IF I CAN'T DONATE MONEY?

No worries, we still need your help! 

We're looking for anyone who might be able to help us in non-financial ways. Whether you want to be an extra in the film, available to help transport our gear, cook us a meal one night, or even spread the word about "Welcome Back" to everyone you know.  Please let us know and we'd love to chat!

Thank you so much and we hope you donate to us today!

Organizer

Vicky Lee
Organizer
New York, NY

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