Future Screenings of Abandoned Allies

Seems like more screenings are shaping up for Abandoned Allies. I've been in touch with a few folks recently who are interested in sharing the film with their audiences, especially if we can organize another panel discussion afterwards.

I'm a big fan of local screening events. It gives me a chance to share the film again, hear responses, and look for opportunities to make a difference in the community. The main goal is raising awareness about this segment of U.S. history, but we're looking for ways to foster social good as well.

There have been a number of exciting conversations. Some people encourage adding this to the NC education system so that students will learn about it. Others say that it'd be great to see a museum exhibition, book, or monument honoring the Montagnards. I agree that all of these opportunities would be great, but I need some help making them happen. So it's slow going right now, but these things are not out of the realm of possibilities.

Until then, I keep looking forward to sharing the film with audiences. If you know of anyone willing to help out, please give me a shout. With the holidays coming up, we may be looking at screenings in 2013. Y'all stay tuned here for more information.

Thanks, always, for the words of encouragement!

Managing Film Festival Submissions

Seems like my life revolves around mailing DVDs to film festivals these days. Have I mentioned this tedious process is not my favorite? (Yes, I think I have.) Since it's important, I'm trying to keep a positive attitude.

It's a tough thing to do, though. Submitting to festivals gets expensive quickly. The cost of producing the film is lingering in the back of your mind already, and then you add these new costs to the list.

There's the cost of burning DVDs, labels, and the case. Then you add the cost of each film fest submission, envelopes, stamps, etc. The straw breaking the camel's back is the occasional trip to the post office, just to make sure the thing has the right postage and makes it in the mail in time. And that usually happens when it's raining and the post office is most crowded -- how does it always happen that way? The whole thing is a bit nerve-racking, but I'm trying not to fret too much.

Without A Box (WAB) has a status page for your submissions. I never knew how much a little blue check mark could mean. The check mark means the DVD has been received, and the submission is being considered. It means ... this part of the process has gone well, at least. Now there's a hope that the little film-that-could will make it through to the final stage: being seen at the festival.

Yep, the whole thing is nerve-racking, time consuming, and tedious. One of the things I focus on to keep positive are the local screenings we're organizing. That is time-consuming as well, but the pay off is more immediate.

These local screenings are good for my soul.

A room full of people willing to watch your film, and stick around to ask questions afterwards? That's a gift right there, my friend. Something I'll never take for granted. I want more of that.

In the meantime, I'm looking into putting the film online for these submissions. I need to take the time to do that, because it would be much more efficient. No DVD production, no mailings to manage, and no waste in the process. I want the process to be as environmentally-friendly as possible, you know?

Submitting to Film Festivals

Been working hard on film festival submissions for Abandoned Allies. All of my research points in this direction, so I'm hustling to get a few submissions checked off my list each week. It's slow-going and a bit too tedious for my taste, but it's important. (Ahem--anyone wanna help with it?)

The idea of sharing the film at a festival is incredibly exciting. I'm targeting festivals that focus on Asian Americans, human rights, and social good. Festivals that encourage indie, female, and new filmmakers are also great. It goes without saying that we're submitting to festivals that screen documentaries, too.

So far the film has been well-received in North Carolina. I've gotten a lot of positive feedback about it. I hope that these festivals will give the film a new life.

My Simple Views on Voting

Last night's debate got me thinking about the right to vote. Please be kind while reading this, as I don't know quite how to put it into words but I'm willing to try.

You see, voting is something I once took for granted.

For so many years, I didn't think my one little vote would make any difference. There are so many people in America voting, why should I bother? All politicians are the same, anyway, right? It takes so much time to learn about each candidate and their stance on the issues.

Now, years later, I understand.

And it brings tears to my eyes.

This voting thing isn't about me.

During the past five years I've had my American bubble burst. I don't know how else to put it. I now see a certain truth about the world, and how I fit into it. I'm so humbled and grateful for my life here in the United States. My friends have taught me about the privilege of being an American.

Recently my friend from Lebanon decided to become a United States citizen. He's been living here and working hard for years, and this decision was one he took seriously. I watched him study for months. The day he was granted U.S. citizenship was one of great happiness. He grinned from ear to ear while telling me about it, saying that he couldn't wait to vote.

Other friends have told me about the persecution in their home country of Vietnam. They escaped through the jungle, walking for days and days, to reach a safe place in a neighboring country. They were resettled here in North Carolina. A few years later they became citizens, and so did their children. They tell me stories about life in Vietnam that break my heart: abuse, imprisonment, and untimely death. Then they take a moment to share the peace and joy they feel because they live in a place of opportunity and freedom.

Over the past few years, I've seen first-hand how much it means to my friends to become a citizen of the United States. The freedom and liberty I was given at birth, they may not have even dreamt about while living in their home country. I've seen them come to this land with the terror of persecution still radiating in their eyes.

Now I see it. Voting isn't about me.

Voting is about appreciating this gift of freedom. It's about honoring the people that fought so hard for the right to vote. The people that died to make this the land of the free. So that I might walk into that poll both, absolutely free of fear, and know that my vote will be counted.

Now I see this is about exercising my right as a U.S. citizen, born in a land of freedom and privilege. I will never again take that responsibility lightly. I will do my best to learn all I can about the candidates, make an educated decision, and hold my elected officials accountable. I have a voice, it will be heard, and I am one of many willing to stand up and be counted.

Dreams of a Photo Essay

I was handed boxes of films and photos like the one pictured here, while working on Abandoned Allies.
Now that the film is finished, I'd like to share these photos and the stories that go with them.

During the making of Abandoned Allies I collected more than 2,000 images. Most of them are taken by Americans living in the central highlands of Vietnam, from the 1950s to the 1970s. The subject matter is pretty similar: Montagnard life, Green Berets, and the two groups spending time together.

Now that the film is finished, I'd like to continue sharing these images. There are so many of them, and keeping them on my personal hard drive seems like a waste. I feel like the photos, and the stories that go with them, should be shared. They are not mine to keep, as it were.

There are many obstacles to turning photos into a book.

Lack of resources is the primary hurdle. Capturing the stories accurately would time, money, and energy. None of the photos belong to me, so putting them all in a book presents a challenge. I would need new permission from the photographers to publish them--and that would take more resources. Finally, putting all of them together--in some order that makes sense to a reader--likely requires the help of an editor, and I don't have one. So, there are some challenges.

I think a photo essay, in the form of a book or even a traveling art exhibition, would be really wonderful. Another way to keep sharing this story, with whomever is willing to listen. I'd need a bit of help with it, though. Perhaps that dream will become a reality one day.

Until then ... stay tuned. Thanks for the continued encouragement, y'all!

Future Screenings of Abandoned Allies

Our most recent screening in Raleigh on Sunday, September 23, 2012.

Thank you for asking about future screenings of Abandoned Allies. I can't wait to share it again, and I'm looking for ways to do so immediately.

At this point, we're showing it in places where we have a champion on the ground. Someone willing to find the best location, build the team that'll show the film, and handle event-related questions. It takes quite a bit of effort and coordination, so this champion is critical in these grassroots efforts to share the film.

If you, or someone you know, is willing to be that champion--and help share Abandoned Allies in your area--please let us know. Email me at abandonedallies [at] gmail.com. Or if you know someone in distribution, give me a shout.

This grassroots effort takes a bit of time, so we appreciate your patience as we share the film as often as we can, in as many locations as you request. We look forward to sharing the film again as soon as we can.

Stay tuned. More info soon!

I'm No Expert

Speaking to a group of NCSU students--most
likely saying, "I don't really know."

We've shared Abandoned Allies a number of times now. During the conversations that follow screenings of the film, I get plenty of really great questions. More often than not, I don't have the answers.

Ironic, isn't it? 

Here I stand in front of a crowd, years after of studying this stuff, mic in my hand--and I have no answers to share. It's a tough spot to be in, since I'm supposed to know some answers. But the truth is: I just don't. 

I'm getting more comfortable with saying, "I don't know; I'm not the expert." I'll never be the expert because I'm just the kid that made the film. I interviewed people who know much more. I've spent time with them and learned a lot in the process--but not enough. 

I've learned, what I think, is barely enough. I've only scratched the surface of a very complex subject that covers decades of history in more than one country. If anything, I wish I had more time, resources, and opportunities to keep studying it. To keep documenting these wonderful, fascinating people--and the love and respect they feel for one another. There are so many beautiful stories here, and it pains me to know that I can't share them all with you.

So, during these Q&As, when I tell you that I don't know the answer to your question, please understand that it's not from lack of trying. I'm learning and sharing what I do know. I'm so glad you asked me a question, and I hope someone can answer it for all of us.

Keep asking, y'all. I'll keep seeking the truth. 

Ted Hope on History

Read this today. I felt it was appropriate

"My favorite class ever in high school was the day my history teacher told us he was going to teach us to read. History wasn’t what we read on the page,but the ideas they trying to express with showing it, the stuff in between the lines.  The only way to ever read history he said, was to find the bias.  Only the victors get published, but the nature of war is that the losers are the ones that die more.  The numbers that count are the bodies piled up in mounds, not the few who live to reap the spoils; look there for the true tale of what was lost while others won." 

- via Ted Hope, Hope for Film (http://bit.ly/PrRKCf)

Recap: Screening at Saint Paul's Christian Church

Yesterday we screened Abandoned Allies at Saint Paul's Christian Church in Raleigh, N.C. It was a well attended event, with plenty of great conversations afterwards! Thank you all for coming, watching the film, and sticking around afterwards to ask questions.

I'd like to thank Diane Faires for organizing the screening. She did a fantastic job putting it together, and I'm so grateful for her efforts. Julie Mullin was kind enough to give me a tour of the gardens at Saint Paul's yesterday. She introduced me to plenty of the folks at the church, and even spoke during the Q&A session. So I'd like to thank her as well.

There are so many people helping with this film, and I feel incredibly lucky to know them. Events like yesterday's screening take a lot of planning and coordination, so I am incredibly grateful to the church and its congregation for hosting the event. They are doing some really cool things at the church, and I look forward to learning more about it.

Stay tuned, y'all. There's so much more to share!

Quite a full house during the screening at Saint Paul's
Christian Church in Raleigh, N.C., on September 23, 2012.

The church garden has things like Cambodian green beans, which
Julie Mullin showed me. We ate them straight off the stalk. Yum!

Home Movie Day: Oct. 20, 2012

Photo courtesy of Skip Elsheimer.

A Home Movie Day will take place in Raleigh, N.C., on Saturday, October 20, 2012 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. People are invited to come watch home movies or bring their own 8mm, Super 8mm, or 16mm film to share. The event will be held at the N.C. State Archives Auditorium (109 East Jones Street), and is free and open to the public.

Home Movie Day is an annual, nationwide celebration of amateur films and filmmaking that began in 2002. These events provide the opportunity to see and share home movies, and learn how to care for them. How do you see what's on these films? How you get them digitized? How do you preserve them for future generations?

A lot of people have been asking me about digitizing old films. While working on Abandoned Allies I turned to the expert, Skip Elsheimer of A/V Geeks (@AVGeeks), for help with digitizing Super 8 footage shot in the late 1960s. I chronicled much of that journey on this blog (http://bit.ly/nuTanF), so some of you are very familiar with those struggles. My interest in digitizing footage has grown considerably as a result, and I'm fascinated by what Skip's doing these days.

For a filmmaker like me, preserving our cinematic past is really important. I'm so excited about this Home Movie Day, and plan on bringing some of my family's home movies to find out what's on them. This event is perfect for Vietnam veterans with footage and no way to see what's on it.

To learn more about the Triangle Home Movie Day, visit http://www.avgeeks.com/hmd.html. There's a Facebook event page as well. You can also visit the Home Movie Day website for information on a national level.

Photo courtesy of Skip Elsheimer.

Photo courtesy of Skip Elsheimer.

The Triangle Home Movie Day is co-sponsored by the Film Studies Program at NCSU, the NC State Archives, Duke Archive of Documentary Arts, and AV Geeks Transfer Services.

Screening on 9/23/12 at 5pm

If you missed the chance to see Abandoned Allies at the IMAX at Marbles last month, you can see it at St. Paul's Christian Church in Raleigh, N.C. on 9/23. The church has a service dedicated to the Montagnard community, so showing the film there is very exciting. They support their congregation through the St. Paul's Montagnard Fund, and snacks will be available for purchase to support those efforts.

For more information and to register to attend, visit http://abandonedalliesspcc.eventbrite.com/.

IMAX Screening Thanks

The screening at IMAX at Marbles was a huge success. I've been getting lots of positive feedback about it, and will write that up very soon. But first ...

Events like Sunday's screenings don't just happen. There are a bunch of people involved with making it come together. Here is a list of people I want to thank for making it possible:

The folks at IMAX: Tim Hazelhurst, Katy Burgwyn, Emmaus Smith, Sarah Walston, and Taylor Leslie. They were all so kind, helpful, and supportive. They worked hard and taught me a lot about the IMAX at Marbles in the process. Big thanks to them for their support of local, independent filmmakers.

Bill Leslie, WRAL news anchor, who served as our Q&A emcee. He's such a pro: took questions, kept the conversation going, and prevented us from rambling on (which I'm prone to do). I was able to relax and listen to the questions because he was our emcee. Bill also interviewed me about the screening last week. I owe a very special thanks to Sally Smith for greeting me at the WRAL station and keeping me calm before going on camera. She's one of the coolest people I know.

Our panelists for the Q&A: Christopher McClure, Mike Benge, George Shepard, and Joe Rimar. Some of these guys traveled pretty far to be there. They know a lot, and I'm so grateful they took the time to share with us.

Event volunteers: Astra Barnes, Kenneth Ball, Hilary Allen, Tracy Dixon, John Dixon, Arwen Carter Buchholz, Paul Stanford, and Gordon Watts. These folks were a huge help making the event a success. They're smart people who need very little direction, and they know how to make things happen. Some of them gave out movie tickets and others were behind the scenes, hustling to take care of things you never knew needed to get done.

Photographer Bobbi Whittemore agreed to capture the event for us. She sent me photos, which I have started downloading and will share with you soon. A very special thanks to Bobbi for making sure we have photos from such an important day in the life of this film.

Lisa Sullivan was kind enough to sell DVDs for me during the Q&A. She's someone I trusted to handle such an important task, and she did it with a huge smile! Thank you, Lisa.

Crystal Roberts, my marketing / communications specialist for the film, also did a wonderful job on Sunday. She chatted with folks, took pictures, and kept folks at ease. I'm so grateful to have her on my team to provide communications guidance. What a woman.

Scott Rucci, David Iversen, and Andy Poe all had a hand in producing DVDs of the film. They also provided support while making the film--offering technical expertise and commiserating about the challenges one faces while making a film.

Ashley Maria and Lea-Ann Berst, who have helped nurture my filmmaking career. Ashely Maria screened her films at IMAX at Marbles in 2011, letting me photograph the fun (related blog post here). Both of these women constantly inspire and encourage me. I'm stronger and more confident because of these two incredibly smart, talented women.

Patrick Jones, who designed many of the graphics in the film (including the Abandoned Allies logo), hustled to get the finished poster to me in time for the screening. He did a fantastic job, as always, with the graphics. He pours so much of himself into each design, laboring over the concept and tweaking the final version to perfection. Everyone raved about his work on Sunday, standing by the posters to have their pictures taken. Thank you, Patrick, for being a friend and an incredibly talented designer.

All of the folks who helped make Abandoned Allies. So many of you were at the screening and ready to talk about your experience working on the film. Thank you for being there, meeting others involved with the project, and sticking with this thing for several years. I appreciate your time, talents, and generosity. I got so many compliments on your hard work. You should be really proud of yourselves for all that you've done--and all the things we learned together.

My executive producer: Surry Roberts. When people ask me how I chose this subject, I point to Surry. He served two tours in Vietnam during the war. He works closely with the Montagnards in North Carolina. And he's been a mentor and a friend for years. He constantly challenges me, and I'm better for it. I appreciate his insight, encouragement, and friendship.

My fiancee, Derek Roessler. This man is amazing. I would list all the wonderful things he does to make my life more enjoyable, but some of you might get sick on the lovely-dovey talk. Just know that I'm supported by a seriously tall, funny, and encouraging man named Derek. His parents, Tom and R Roessler, also deserve a big thanks. They've been so supportive and encouraging. Tom let Derek borrow his video camera so we could capture the Q&A, too!

My parents: Gordon Watts and Carole Watts. They are smart, supportive, and loving people--always willing to help me think through the next hair-brained scheme. They offer the kind of support you need from a parent, plus so much more. They dare me to dream, break through barriers, and reach for the impossible. And when I'm at my worst, they still love me the way only a parent can.

Bill Leslie, emcee, and the panel for the Q&A: Joe Rimar, Mike Benge,
George Shepard, Camden Watts, and Christopher McClure.
Photo credit: David Leblond

Tracy Dixon and Arwen Carter Buchholz helped guests
check in and get their tickets to the film.
Photo credit: Crystal Roberts

Lisa Sullivan helped by selling DVDs of the film.
Photo credit: Crystal Roberts

Mike Benge and Surry Roberts, two of the folks who were
critical in the making of Abandoned Allies possible.
Photo credit: Crystal Roberts

Derek Roessler and yours truly in front of the Abandoned Allies 
poster, which was designed by Patrick Jones.
Photo credit: Crystal Roberts

Please note: If I've neglected to include your name here, and you helped out in some way ... please do not take offense. I'm recuperating from all the hustle and bustle leading up to the screenings, and appreciate your patience while I rest up.

Announcing: WRAL News Anchor Bill Leslie Will Emcee the Q&A

Bill Leslie, narrator of Abandoned Allies, will emcee the
Q&A session at the screening this Sunday.

Bill Leslie, WRAL news anchor and narrator of Abandoned Allies, will emcee the question and answer (Q&A) session at the Marbles Kids Museum on Sunday, August 26 at 4:15 PM in Venture Hall.

The Q&A is scheduled between the two screenings, so that audiences may hear from people featured in the film. Also available to answer questions are people who helped make Abandoned Allies, including yours truly.

For more information on the event and to register for tickets, visit: http://alliesatimax.eventbrite.com/.

Update: Call for Volunteers

I think we have the help we need for the screening this Sunday. If you're still interested in helping out, though, please let me know. Stuff like this requires a lot of support, and many hands make light work. Thank you for all the encouragement, excitement, and support. It's most appreciated!

IMAX Screening Volunteers Needed

Hey folks! I need some help preparing for this Sunday's screening at IMAX. If you're interested / available, please let me know immediately. Here's what I need:

REFRESHMENTS (1 or 2 people needed)
I need a friend to purchase cans of soda, bottles of water, and finger foods at the best price in bulk. Then bring the goods to the IMAX theatre on Sunday at 2:00 PM. Help set the stuff up before the event, and make sure I bring home what's not used. (I'll reimburse you; save me the receipt.)

CHECK IN TABLE (4 people needed)
About four people are needed for checking in guests. You sit at the table, smile and greet folks, ask for a photo ID, and then look up their name on a spreadsheet. It's pretty simple, but incredibly important. I need smart, kind folks to fill these positions.

EVENT VOLUNTEERS (6 people needed)
I could use a few dudes to help guide guests. You'll stand in a designated area to welcome people, guide them to the right place, answer questions, and put them at ease. This may sound unnecessary, but I feel like it's important. We have a diverse crowd attending the screening. Some of them are from out of town, and others aren't familiar with downtown Raleigh. These incredibly important people will help put guests at ease, so they come to the theatre ready to relax and enjoy the film.

CLEAN UP CREW (2 people needed)
When the event is over, I might be totally exhausted. I need a few folks willing to help leave the place better than when we came in. I don't know what, exactly, this will entail at the moment but it'll be simple things like making sure we don't leave things behind or helping me carry things to my car. Simple enough, eh?

If you, or someone you know, is kind enough to volunteer for these things please let me know immediately. I could use help from trustworthy, kind folks.

Event at IMAX Info // 2ND SCREENING!

Since the response was so overwhelming to our announcement about the first screening of Abandoned Allies, we have added a second screening on the same day. Big thanks to the Wells Fargo IMAX Theatre at Marbles for allowing us to do that.

Get tickets: http://alliesatimax.eventbrite.com/.

The schedule for Sunday, August 26th is as follows:

• 3:00 pm - Screening of Abandoned Allies
• 4:15 pm - Question and Answer Session
• 5:15 pm - Screening of Abandoned Allies

Question and Answer Session

There will be only one Q&A session, and you'll want to be there! Folks featured in the film will be on hand to elaborate about their experiences and answer questions. The emcee is a very special guest whom you will certainly recognize, but I haven't announced his name yet. Stay tuned.

Event Photography

If you attend the event be prepared to have your picture taken. We will have an event photographer, and hope that you'll smile for her. Photos will be used online to promote the film.

DVDs for Sale

We will also have screener DVDs available for purchase. I'll have more information about that soon, but please plan on bringing cash if you want to make a purchase. Big thanks to David Iversen, Scott Rucci, and Andy Poe for their help making these DVDs.

Questions

If you have questions about anything related to this event, please let me know!

IMAX Show: Sold Out in 3.5 Days!

What?! We sold out in 3.5 days! That's is thrilling! Thank you all for the overwhelming support. Because of the response, we're working on additional screenings. 


If you want to see the film, be sure to add your name to the wait list here: http://alliesatimax.eventbrite.com/. If you registered for tickets but can't make the show, please let me know so we can have a full house.


As always, stay tuned for information as it develops. You can sign up for e-news or visit the website, Facebook, Twitter, or blog. Thank you all for the encouragement, support, and congrats. 


More news soon!

What We're Made For - A New Song by Natalie Royal

Services for Katherine R'Com and her cousin Johnny Nay were held last weekend. (Related news story here.) The 10 year old girl was the daughter of Vien Siu, who is featured in Abandoned Allies. 


Vien and his family have been to our private screening events, often brought food with them to share with everyone, and gave honest and gentle feedback about how to improve the film. I'm a big fan of their family, and feel so lucky that I've gotten to know them while working on this film.


My heart goes out to the families who suffered such an untimely deaths last week, including the victims in the theatre massacre in Colorado. Losing someone you love is so tough.


That's why I want to share a song by Natalie Royal. When folks see Abandoned Allies, they often ask me about the music. Natalie Royal's incredible voice is the one you'll hear a few times in the film. Big props go to Annie Beth Brown Donahue, the music supervisor for Abandoned Allies, who arranged to have Natalie's music in the film. It's so powerful.

Natalie has been working on her full length album, and raised money on Kickstarter. (Her campaign has ended, but you can scope it out here.) As part of her fundraising efforts, she offered to write and record a song for financial backers. 


The song What We're Made For was recorded specifically for Sam in Portland, Oregon, but has a special meaning for me today because of the events that transpired last week. The past week has been tough for people suffering tragic, unexpected losses. I find this song especially comforting right now.


Natalie introduces the song and starts singing at 3:24 on her video. She also has a free download of the song available here. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

"Some times when we are at our lowest points and when things are the absolute worst, the only thing that makes anything better is another person ... The human race is really not so bad... if we look at the positives that are happening ... we'll realize how wonderful people truly are." 

Natlie Royal 

On IndieGoGo: Digitize 100 Miles of the AV Geeks films

While working on Abandoned Allies, one of my biggest challenges was finding archival footage. When we finally did find it, we had no way to digitize it. How in the world was I going to get this footage in the film? It was a stressful, uneasy time with no solution in sight.

Then I met my hero: Skip Elsheimer.

Skip and I met one afternoon at his office. I stopped by with a basket full of moldy 8mm film. He looked through it, and said he thought he could help. Then he walked me around, showing me countless shelves stocked to the ceiling with old films. It was absolutely fascinating!

He's working on a new project now, digitizing some of those films so others can enjoy them. These efforts are incredibly important. He is preserving our past and making it accessible to people who want it and need it. People like me, who had no other way of getting the footage when it was needed.


If you want more info about this, Skip has an IndieGoGo page: http://www.indiegogo.com/avgeeks100miles. Donate if you wish. Share with others who may be interested. 


Skip's a great guy, who's working on a really cool project. He's done a lot to help me make Abandoned Allies, and I'll be forever grateful. Show him some support, won't you? 

Screening of Abandoned Allies at IMAX

It's a great joy to announce that on Sunday, August 26th at 3:00 p.m., we'll be screening Abandoned Allies at the Wells Fargo IMAX Theatre at Marbles Kids Museum in downtown Raleigh. We'll have a question and answer session following the screening, so stick around. See you there!

Event registration for Screening of Abandoned Allies powered by Eventbrite

Announcement Has Been Rescheduled

We promised you an announcement today, but in light of recent events we've decided to wait. Out of respect for the families and communities who have suffered tragic losses this week, we will share the news at a more appropriate time.

Earlier this week the Montagnard community in North Carolina suffered the loss of two children in a drowning accident. Services will be held this weekend. The family suffering such an untimely loss has been a loyal supporter of our efforts for years. My thoughts and prayers are with them during this incredibly tough time.

H'Katherine R'Com (via WRAL)

Last night a tragic event occurred in Colorado at a midnight screening of The Dark Knight. A gunman entered the theatre through an emergency exit door, shooting and killing 12 people and wounding another fifty people. My thoughts and prayers are with the community in Colorado.

(via LA Times)

These untimely and senseless deaths have left me deeply shaken. I'm so sad for these families, and will keep them in my thoughts in prayers. In the meantime, I plan on spending time with my own loved ones; simply thankful I get to spend more time with them.

Very Sad News

Monday evening, I got an email from Lap, one of the folks who's helped me a lot with this film. He told me about the deaths of two young children here in North Carolina.

Later that evening, I saw it on the news. (WRAL: Two children drown in Neuse River) One of those children is the daughter of Vien, a man whom I interviewed for this film. 


Vien, his wife, and his two girls have been so supportive while we've worked on this project over the years. They came to so many of the private screenings, patiently talking with me about how to make it a better film. They were so kind to bring food each time, too. While I didn't get to know the girls very well, I enjoyed every interaction I have had with them. 


Their youngest daughter, Katherine, passed away on Monday. Earlier this week, Surry and I visited with Vien and his family to offer condolences. 


I want to be considerate of these families who have suffered such tragic losses this week. I'm so sad. Please know that my heart is with you. 

Screening Announcement Coming Soon

Hey folks! We have some exciting news on the way. Stay tuned, as we'll make an announcement this Friday at noon about the next screening of Abandoned Allies! Here's a hint. :)

The Pace of Filmmaking

I like to jump in and get things going full speed ahead. So, more often than not, a slower pace is really tough on my creative process. Last month I welcomed a chance to go full speed ahead on a film. 


I participated in the Greensboro 48-Hour Film Project with friends. We jumped in. Our team started and finished a film in one weekend. It was glorious.

On the set of Love Struck, our submission to the Greensboro 48-Hour Film Project.

The 48-hour film project pace makes you work a certain way. You shoot only what you need since there's no time to edit out what you won't use. You work longer hours, since you only have one weekend to create and finish the film. If you're lucky you have a base of operations, where your crew of talented people collaborate and hustle.


The weekend was very different than how I have operated with Abandoned Allies. I learned a lot from it. I really enjoyed it, and I know I'll put those lessons towards my next film.


When it comes to Abandoned Allies--a feature-length, serious documentary about cultural differences, war, and foreign policy--the pace is very different. It has been a slow and steady pace: one of observation, learning, researching, conversing, earning trust, proving worth and honor-ability, and genuinely appreciating the world and the people in it. 


I have learned so much over these past few years, and I have grown up a lot because of this project. That's very good. I am eager to use what I've learned on new projects, so I can make those infinitely better than the last thing I worked. And constantly get better as a storyteller and filmmaker.


I'm now trying to now find a balance that allows me to use my creativity, but not reach burn out as much as I have while working on this film. I also want to have quality time with family and friends, to keep healthy relationships. I want to travel, build a lovely home, and have a family of my own. I want to do work that is this inspiring, educating, meaningful, and challenging. I want to make a dent my the universe with projects like this which, hopefully, challenge us all to be better neighbors and friends. But I also want to be that better neighbor friend, too.

We're now finished with the film, which means I have a new list of tasks in front of me. Namely, making the film available for people to see. So we're working on DVDs, online efforts, and live screening events. 


Just as I was getting used to these waters, we find ourselves in uncharted territory once again. It's good. I am anxious to share this labor of love.

The Life of a Film(maker)

There are many chapters in a person's life, marked by age or milestone. Films grow up in a similar fashion, I believe. They are conceived, born, and eventually leave the nest to take on a life of their own.

In the life of Abandoned Allies, a new chapter has begun. We have edited, tweaked, and improved the film as much as we can (with the resources available at the time we made it). Now it's time to send this fledgling out into the world and see if it can fly.

We have a public, local screening taking shape. No official details to share just yet, but please stay tuned. We'll be sure to give you the info so you can see it, and attend the Q&A session afterwards.

In the mean time, my personal life has seen milestones and memorable moments. This past month was especially joyous.

On May 18, 2012, my boyfriend proposed while we were vacationing in Positano, Italy. Yesterday marked one month since we got engaged, and we are still grinning like idiots. The vacation, engagement, celebrations, and a birthday have made for a whirl wind of a month. One seriously happy month in my life, with many more to come.

If you haven't heard much from me in a while, that's why! I'm now back in the States, back to work, and ready to share Abandoned Allies. Y'all stay tuned. More to share soon!

Derek and me on the day we arrived in Italy, hours before
we got engaged. Behind us is Mt. Vesuvius.

Public Screenings of Abandoned Allies Coming Soon

Want to see Abandoned Allies? Fantastic! We're organizing public screenings this year and hope you will join us. More information about these events will be available as things develop. For now, be sure to sign up for our emails so you can get the latest about the film delivered straight to your inbox.

Register for emails here: http://eepurl.com/k6DXf.

The Power of One

A single protester staring down the tanks
in Beijing's Tiananmen Square, June 1989.
Watch the video: http://youtu.be/qq8zFLIftGk.

Never underestimate the power you have to change this world for the better.

You may feel small. You may feel like you don't matter. You may feel like the problem is too big, and you don't have any solutions. You may feel like it's too late.

You may not have the energy left for one more fight. Do it anyway.

The world is watching. We're waiting for a super hero. Not a guy in a cape, with super powers--even though that'd be cool. We just need a regular person, ready to take a stand for something good.

We need you. You are the perfect person for the job--just as you are right now. We don't need you when you're smarter, richer, or skinnier. We need you right now.

Never underestimate how much you matter. You are precious, important, and valued. If you were here with me, I'd give you a big bear hug. I'd tell you over and over again that you're loved--like that scene from Good Will Hunting, where the repetition and intimacy break down your barriers so that you finally, finally get that you're loved.

You might be one person, but that's all it takes sometimes. Never underestimate the power of one. Never underestimate the power of a simple gesture. Do something good in this world. We all need it. Need to believe that good still exists. That it will prevail.

Feel like you're facing a huge challenge? Have no fear. Take inspiration from this guy: http://youtu.be/qq8zFLIftGk.

You can do it. We're waiting for you.

Publicity Photo Shoot

This week I did a publicity photo shoot for Abandoned Allies with the lovely and talented Ann Tobler of Miss Jee's Photography. I'm incredibly grateful, even though being in front of someone else's camera makes me a little nauseous. Ann was very kind and patient, which made things infinitely more fun.

We can't share the photo shoot results just yet. Sit tight. You'll see something out very soon!

Working on the Website

The Abandoned Allies site is under construction. We have a placeholder right now, but I hope that something fancier / more custom will develop in the coming months. I've  been chatting to folks, trying to figure out the best way to move forward.

It seems like relying on WordPress would be smart, since I know how to make updates easily. Themes are also relatively inexpensive, and easy to customize. I've been experimenting with my personal site, camdenwatts.com, to dust off those skills.

This has made me realize how much effort I have put into becoming a story teller. I feel web development has changed drastically while I've been pouring myself into post-production. It has me thinking about developing skills, and what I really want to focus on in the future: becoming a better filmmaker.

That being said, there's still no budget for hiring a web developer. It'd be great to hand this off to someone.

This, I think, is one of those constant struggles for an indie filmmaker. Everything I read encourages indie filmmakers to distribute their own film, and stay committed to the project to the end. I want to do that, for sure. It seems ideal, something we all want to do; however, it's really exhausting. I've poured so much into simply making the film--fighting every battle, challenge, and nay-sayer along the way--that the energy needed to get an audience after it's finished is almost completely gone. This is why I'm doing little things to help recover and regain that energy.

The website is nagging at me ferociously. If you, or someone you know, is willing to help take over this effort, please give me a shout. I desperately need some help leading these efforts.

Memorials and Mourning

My grandmother and grandfather
on their wedding day in 1942.

This weekend my family will gather for a memorial service honoring my grandparents. There have been many conversations and preparations leading up to this weekend, and it's finally here.

You may recall that my grandmother passed away on December 7, 2011. It's been a really tough couple of months following her death--as anyone who's lost a loved one could imagine. It's been a struggle to stay focused on the film; mourning has taken such a prominent role in my life and we've been busy handling her affairs, with my father leading the charge. I had no idea that it cost so much money and required so much energy just to settle the estate of a loved one. It's exhausting.

This weekend will be bittersweet, but it'll be nice to be with loved ones to honor two people who were such a big part of my life.

Some of you have been wondering why I haven't been as social lately. It's because I've been busy spending time with family and trying to handle things as best I can.

I'll return soon. I promise.

Related Blog Posts:
Mourning
Lessons from my grandmother
The man who owns much
Getting back to work

The People Don't Know Their Power

The People Don't Know Their True Power
(source: http://bit.ly/IA6cIz)

There have been a lot of conversations about North Carolina's proposed Amendment 1. It's a hot topic, and voting happens on May 8th. This post isn't about the amendment, where I stand on it, or how you should vote.

This is, however, an exploration of how much your vote counts--even when you feel the odds aren't in your favor. It's easy to discredit a single vote because we live in such a large country. There are more than 311 million people here, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Last weekend I was chatting with someone about voting, specifically about the amendment in North Carolina. Based on the content in my Facebook stream, I was shocked to learn that the amendment has a chance of getting passed. We chatted about why that possibility exists, and how the demographics of our state might influence such a thing. One of the conclusions drawn from that conversation: each vote matters--a lot. Even (or especially) when it seems the odds are against a voter.

We may feel like our vote doesn't count here, but it really does.

We, as citizens, have an opportunity to think for ourselves, then make an educated decision on a matter. We have an opportunity to meet with our elected officials and tell them how we feel, influencing their actions. We have a voice, we have the power to be heard, and we have the opportunity to change the world.

But making an educated decision often takes time, research, and effort. More often than not, it can feel like a big burden to many people.

Earlier today I talked with another man about this amendment, sharing what I know in an unbiased way so he could make his own decision. He had gotten confused about what it meant to be for or against it. He hadn't heard all of the details, and didn't feel like he had the time to make an educated decision--so he isn't going to vote at all.

The cartoon at the top of this post is spot on: we, the people, don't know our true power.

Working on Abandoned Allies has made me realize that being a citizen of the United States is more than just opportunity. It's also a responsibility. People in other places around the world watch Americans because our country is a world power. If we, the people, don't take the time to vote or educate ourselves on the matters, politicians get full reign to do what they think is in our best interest. This, it seems, has led to a negative reputation for our people and our country.

Like the subject matter of Abandoned Allies, this is a complex issue. You can't summarize how all Americans behave because there are so many of us and we live in a very diverse country. I can't provide scientific evidence at the present time, just anecdotal evidence about our approach to voting here in the States. It's something I'd like to explore further if / when I have the time. (See what I did there?)

Nonetheless, I encourage my fellow Americans to take the time to learn about what's happening in your community, and find a way to become an active citizen. People in other parts of the world are being thrown in jail for speaking out about what they believe, but we have a chance to speak freely.

What we have is a luxury: a chance to be heard. What we have is a responsibility: a chance to vote. What we have is a bright future: a chance to make a difference in the world.

Go vote. You don't know your own power, my friends.

Visiting Dr. Patterson's Class

Last night I visited with Dr. Bob Patterson's class at NCSU, shared the film, and chatted with them afterwards. Once again his students impressed me with great questions and feedback.

Last night was especially awesome because Vien Siu, who is featured in the film, visited the class and talked with us. Also a man named Den, his wife, and his son also visited and provided another perspective: that of a South Vietnamese family who lived during the war and is now in the States.

I can't tell you how great it was to have so many different perspectives, and everyone willing to have a grounded, genuine conversation.

We talked about what happened so long ago and how it's related it to what's happening today. We talked about how this subject has been brushed under the carpet, and few people know anything about it. We talked about how books on the subject are hard to find, and I confessed that I hope to write one in order to change that.

We talked. And it was great.

You see, I don't get to talk about this stuff very often in daily life. When you're tailgating or having dinner or doing whatever you do socially, most people don't want to talk about the Vietnam War because it happened so long ago. A lot of people know very little about it, just like I did when I started this film. Talking about foreign policy, global trade relationships, and human rights atrocities also doesn't win you a lot of friends in the social scene either. So I don't get to talk about it a whole lot.

But I feel like this stuff is really, really important.

I feel like our country did something wrong, and I'm not here to point fingers or place blame. I do, however, want to have healthy conversations like we did last night. Conversations that might open the mind of another person, and shed a bit of light on something important. And if these conversations and knowing some facts (especially stories that aren't making daily headlines) moves people enough, perhaps they will take action.

Little actions make a big difference, I believe. And I never underestimate the power of a motivated group of individuals. The folks in that room last night won my heart, and I am so grateful they came to watch my film.

It's taken a long time to get to this point, and finally somewhat understand such complex subject. There are so many facets to it, and I am left with more questions than answers. I don't pretend to know what'll happen next, but I desperately hope that it's a beautiful and positive change for everyone. And I think that's possible.

Cutting the Trailer

Abandoned Allies trailer coming soon!

Last weekend I cut a trailer for Abandoned Allies. It's amazing how many hours it takes just to put together two minutes of edited footage--how quickly I had forgotten.

Cutting a trailer is incredibly difficult. Especially after spending four years cutting 50+ hours of footage down to 60 minutes. To cutting that 60 minutes down to one or two minutes? Whoa.

Not only that, you have to make that minute intriguing and exciting--without giving away the entire film. Raise questions and hint at answers, making people want a chance to see the full length film.

No doubt. It's tough.

Yet something I realized this weekend? I actually enjoy editing video.

The people closest to me might find that shocking. I've gripped so much over the past few years. I've finally gotten to the point where I understand what I want and need to do. Perhaps I've developed a critical eye for video editing. Who knows, except that I really enjoyed cutting the trailer this weekend.

To wake up early and edit video while the world keeps sleeping is really satisfying. To watch the same thing over and over and over again might drive others mad, but I've been doing that for years. Just ask my college roommates.

There's something about editing video that I find really pleasing.

Branding Updates

I love branding. So when a friend developed the logo and graphics for the film, I was ecstatic! During the past few weeks, I've been reveling in making updates to our online presence, which correspond to the look of the graphics in the film developed by Patrick Jones.

Our Facebook and Twitter profiles have new avatars. Our Facebook page has a new header graphic, featuring George Shepard. Our Twitter page has a new textured background, which is also used in the film. I hope to add the logo to that background, but couldn't quite get it right.

Design of the DVD labels has been made, tweaked, and printed. It may go through some revisions, but that'll come later. One thing at a time, eh?

I have also started redoing the website, and made a bit of progress on that this week thanks to help from James Burns. I hope to find a web designer / programmer who can take the design I have in mind and run with it, but make sure the site's easy to update down the road. At the moment, I feel like WordPress might be the best way to go, so we have a placeholder on the site ... which is totally painful to me every single day that it doesn't get updated.

This weekend I've been working on the trailer for the film. New business cards are needed. And we will, hopefully, get some videos uploaded to YouTube some time soon.

Be sure to tell me what you think of the little things I've recently updated. If there are areas for improvement, please let me know. I love social media, design, and branding, but realize that I've been more focused on making this film so your feedback is welcomed.

The wheels are always turning, and there's a lot more to do! Stay tuned.

Talk at NCSU Next Week

Speaking with Dr. Patterson's class in April 2011.

It's a privilege to tell you that I'll be at NCSU next week talking about Abandoned Allies, thanks to Dr. Bob Patterson, Jack Zapple, and many others. I'm really looking forward to the evening, and can't wait to tell you how it goes.

Dr. Patterson is kind to ask me to return. I'm even more thrilled to do so because the film is actually finished now. My mental state is much different as a result. Talks like this are fun because they generate interesting discourse. His students are incredibly intelligent, and raise such good questions. I hope to share some of them with you here afterwards.

Related blog posts:

• Talk at NCSU's Global Sustainability and Human Development Class
• Talk at NCSU (Round 2)

So Much to Share

There are so many great things taking shape right now. I won't share details yet, but I wanted to let you know we're working hard to get the film to you soon--in many different formats. There are also some screening events taking shape. Please stay tuned! :)

2012 Full Frame Documentary Film Fest

Michael Moore via Skype at the
2012 Full Frame Documentary Film Festival.

Today was a film-filled day, and I loved every minute of it. It's the week of the Full Frame Documentary Film Festival, which is consistently fantastic. I sat in on a few of the Conversations with filmmakers, including one with Michael Moore via Skype.

The big take-aways of the day are:

• Make great films. Great films undoubtedly find an audience.
• Filmmaking is tough. Even the people that have made a bunch of them say it's still tough.
• Fear doesn't go away (no matter your age). It's kind of a good thing, a sign that you're on to something.
• You can be successful in filmmaking, no matter your background or financial situation. 
• Film festivals are still a key vetting tool for distributors; submit!
• Niche audiences, crowd sourcing, and guerrilla marketing are hot topics. 

Looking forward to returning to the festival tomorrow. I'll write more when I'm not quite so worn out!

DVD Pre-Sale Thoughts

We have a lot of folks asking about getting copies of Abandoned Allies on DVD. This is really exciting. I'd like to make the film available to the folks that are eager to see it!

It costs quite a bit to make these available, though. I think we could pre-sell the DVDs to raise funds to pay for the production. This would move things much faster.

Fill out this survey by clicking on the link below. Tell me what you think!

One Seriously Lucky Woman

Today I feel like such a lucky woman. I slept really well last night and have already had my coffee, so I'm wide awake and feeling really lucky.

These past few years have taught me so much. As I sit here reflecting on all that has happened and all that is presently taking shape for Abandoned Allies, I am overwhelmed by how incredibly lucky I am.

Here's what's running through my mind (in no particular order):

• This is my first film, and it's a pretty damn good one.
• I've learned a lot while making it, so the next films I make will be even better.
• The final run time is about 60 minutes--longer than we originally planned because so many people got interested in what we were doing. 
• I interviewed seriously impressive people: community leaders, anthropologists, published authors, Vietnam veterans, Green Berets, the first recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor during the Vietnam War, and one of the nation's leading sniper experts.
• I've gotten to spend time learning about another culture, their language, and their values. They've allowed me to eat dinner at their house, meet their families, weep over injustices, and talk about the important things in life.
• My dream of making a film has finally come true.
• The stress of making this film has shown me that hardship makes you stronger, smarter, and more humble. It also helps you value the great relationships in your life.
• I've worked with really talented, kind people who have generously offered their time and expertise to help make Abandoned Allies even better. And many of us have become friends as a result.
• Now the fun begins: finally sharing the film.

Yep. I'm one seriously lucky woman.

Film Festival Submissions

The festival world has exploded and morphed. These days, it is not only a way to screen films to hungry filmgoers or a marketplace for getting a distributor. Festivals are your next opportunity to develop your fan base and usually your first opportunity to engage your fans in a live event / theatrical context.

-- Jon Reiss (@Jon_Reiss), author of Think Outside the Box Office 

I feel like Jon summed up my motivations well in that quote. Festivals are a great place to share this film with people who appreciate the art of filmmaking. It's where our distribution deals might be made. It's also a place where I can engage with audiences that aren't already familiar with the subject matter.

Yet there are sooooo many film festivals. Each of them have submission fees, deadlines, and guidelines. It can be overwhelming.

Websites like Without A Box make it easier, and for that I'm grateful. The site makes it easy to browse festivals, watch for deadlines, and pay submission fees. The fees add up quickly, so you need a game plan. I've been chatting with a fellow filmmaker, and he seems to have the process down. It's very inspiring.

I'm going after some of the festivals that are obvious, local, or relevant to our subject matter. There are also some that cater to female filmmakers, which is pretty cool. 

It's important to recognize that this is just one part of our greater marketing / distribution plan. There's a lot more work to be done, but it's all very exciting!