IVI D'VYNNE & IF YOU GOT IT (I.Y.G.I) 

Greetings! I’m Ivi D'vynne , the passionate executive producer/director/writer of If You Got It (I.Y.G.I)—a vibrant and unique film inspired by the music, dance, and cultural energy of the 70s, soul-train, and the south. With a background in performing arts, filmmaking, music, and media communications, I’m dedicated to telling stories that celebrate diversity, resilience, and self-expression.

This campaign is about bringing If You Got It to life—a story that amplifies underrepresented voices while inspiring audiences to embrace their unique light. It’s a project close to my heart because it reflects my belief in the power of art to challenge stereotypes and create opportunities for underrepresented talent.

Help me make magic! Your support will help us achieve something extraordinary: an empowering film filled with unforgettable performances, soulful music, and the bold spirit of self-discovery and self-love. Together, we can create a cinematic experience that inspires change and uplifts voices that matter. Join me in making this dream a reality!

Poetry Salaam, Co-Producer

A writer, storyteller, and multi-disciplinary artist, Poetry Salaam has found a unique love for filmmaking through screenwriting, directing, and producing. A New York native with a bright spirit and a strong mind, Poetry strives to create spaces of unapologetic authenticity for herself and other like-minded creatives through the only way she knows how--movement & community.

LOGLINE

In 1979, a talented, plus-sized singer must defy societal norms, family expectations, and her own insecurities to take center stage on a groundbreaking variety show, proving that true talent knows no bounds.

SYNOPSIS

If You Got It follows Demarjé Smith, a gifted but self-conscious young Black woman with a powerful voice and dreams of stardom. Struggling with societal beauty standards and the expectations of her traditional, disapproving father, Demarjé hides her talent behind a facade of fear. Encouraged by her bold and supportive best friend, Kay-Kay, she secretly submits a demo tape to If You Got It, a groundbreaking variety show daring to showcase diverse talent in a segregated Memphis. The show’s visionary host, Cha-Cha, sees the potential in Demarjé’s voice, but the journey to the spotlight is far from smooth.

As she battles her own insecurities, mean-spirited competitors, and her father’s harsh disapproval, Demarjé begins to embrace her worth and the power of her gift. Her triumphant debut not only electrifies the audience but inspires others, including a young girl who sees herself in Demarjé’s unapologetic performance. With her mother’s unwavering support and her father finally witnessing the strength of her convictions, Demarjé proves that courage, authenticity, and soul can shatter barriers, leaving a legacy that transcends the stage.

TONE

If You Got It is a rich interplay of grit, soul, and empowerment, capturing the spirit of the South while celebrating the transformative power of music, courage, and self-expression. It begins with an undercurrent of tension and unease, reflecting the social and personal struggles the characters face—be it societal beauty standards or family conflict. This creates an air of realism that grounds the narrative in its historical context.

As the story progresses, the tone becomes increasingly hopeful and vibrant, mirroring the rhythm and energy of the music that pulses through the narrative. Moments of vulnerability and self-doubt are juxtaposed with scenes of defiance, camaraderie, and the dazzling allure of the If You Got It stage. The dialogue and setting are imbued with the slang, style, and swagger of the 1970s, creating an atmosphere that feels alive with possibility.

At its core, the tone is empowering, focusing on Demarjé’s journey of self-discovery and resilience. Her triumphs are not just about proving others wrong but about embracing her uniqueness and realizing her worth. This contrast between struggle and triumph is what makes the tone emotionally compelling, soulful, and unforgettable.

WHAT WE NEED & WHAT YOU GET

The minimum goal of this film is $30,000. This money will go towards: Locations, Production Design, Wardrobe, Cast and Crew, Equipment Rental, Filming  Essentials, Post-Production,  Crafty, Props, and Competition Entry Fees.

In exchange of your contribution to bringing this story to life, you will be gifted based on the amount of your donation via our "Tier" system! Our Unique Perks are as listed:

•  You do have the option of donating a random amount; however, these perks are based on the tiers!
• The Memphis Maven tier is unique; therefore, the Beale Street Digital Poster will only be available if you donate precisely $901.

THE IMPACT

Your contribution isn’t just funding a film; it’s supporting a movement to create art that inspires change and empowers audiences to see themselves reflected on screen.

This project is valuable because it tells a story many can relate to but rarely see in cinema—a tale of a young, plus-sized Black woman breaking stereotypes and redefining beauty, talent, and success on her own terms. I.Y.G.I encourages people to own their light and reminds the world that greatness comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors.

Your contribution is IMPORTANT! Together, we can create a film that uplifts, entertains, and leaves a lasting legacy of representation and joy. Let’s make If You Got It a story the world will never forget.

RISKS & CHALLENGES

If we do not reach this goal, this film will not be able to be made :(. If it is not made, we miss the opportunity to tell a story that will change lives. Not only that, I will not be able to graduate  on time from Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) as this is my final project before graduation.

We need you! Support underrepresented voices and support change!

OTHER WAYS TO HELP

Please share this with any and everyone you know! The more eyes that we get on this film, the better chances we have of meeting or even exceeding our goal!