The evidence is right in front of us...

Filmmaker Jeff Oppenheim (“Funny Valentine,” Universal Pictures, and “A Passion for Giving,” PBS) has turned his lens on one of the most prolific art forgers of our times--Elmyr de Hory.

From the Director/Producer

I was drawn into this story upon first introduction to this enigmatic art forger--his art, the passion for which he lived life, and the nature of his crimes.  Working alongside an art crime investigator, meeting the executor/sole heir, talking to art and art crime experts, and sifting through the personal effects, correspondences, documents, and photographs left behind after Elmyr took his own life in 1976; we have begun to put the pieces together.  We found friends and colleagues and have started to capture the recollections of private conversations in an attempt to unravel the mystery of Elmyr’s true identity, the extent of his forgeries, his personal motivations, and the secrets of the art trade itself.  During this investigative journey, we also hope to discover some of the many forgeries still misattributed as originals in private and public collections today, and create a discourse regarding the aesthetic, moral and economic impact of these “crimes of deception".  

Short Summary

I bring to this project a duality of expertise and interest--my 30+ years in the entertainment industry combined with my deep connection to the art world.    It is from this passion and conviction that this documentary was born.   It is in fact, why I am drawn to the artist's passion play of a life.  It is also an opportunity to explore the grander themes of what defines art and its value.  In short, Elmyr de Hory inspires the artist in all of us.  And it is how I am now reaching out to you to support this amazing documentary through its journey of the art world and its secrets.  

All artists need patrons and a filmmaker is no different.  The production has already received partial equity investment from various generous and visionary investors.  We will also receive funds through our European co-producers.  Some of my friends whose pockets do not run as deep as their hearts have asked how they can help. Thus, through the modest pledges set forth in these pages, you can be part of this project by financing the final phase of production.  

What We Need & What You Get

Funds will be used to offset the next and final leg of production across the US and Europe, where we have traced various ties to Elmyr and in some cases, existing work/collections. Filming includes: NY, MA, CA, TX, NM, as well as France, Hungary and Spain.  Our team is made-up of a three-person crew: producer/director; director of photography/cameraman; and second camera/grip. We will also have to subsidize some added equipment and expendables as well as travel, lodging and meals.  
We will pick up additional crew as needed through our European Co-producers. This local expense will be covered by the EU film funding system.  The States does not offer this kind of funding to filmmakers and grants are few and far between for films in the US. 

Your kind support will enable you to be part of this project while enabling the completion.  You will stay up-to-date with unique IndieGoGo news, photos/videos and discoveries throughout production.  All pledges will receive an exclusive DVD upon completion of the film.  Other pledge levels may include: a closing film credit on the documentary, special invitations to screenings, even your very own Elmyr Art!

The Impact

The one last thing I can share with you are two quotes from the film:  One from Elmyr who always said "If my work hangs on the wall next to the real thing long enough, it becomes real."  That has come to past and as one curator says, "We stand on the threshold of that time where these works will disappear, forever mistaken for the real thing with their own legitimate provenance."  That is why the time to make this film is now.  

Other Ways You Can Help

In addition to making your much appreciated contribution, there are other ways to help.  

1.) Consider donating your air miles. 

2.) if you have a timeshare or work for a hotel or have places for us to stay, or have a restaurant that can host us for some meals, let us know.

3.) Take pride in our collaboration and share this project and IndieGoGo site with everyone you know.

4.) Lastly be our eyes and ears if you hear something related to this story, share it with us.