WHAT IS R.A.W.?
Originally we had set out to tell the story of arts education in America: how it's under-appreciated, underfunded, and the mind-blowing data that proves that artistic study is not just for "creative" people and artists but literally everyone needs lots of it in order to reach his or her full potential. So we searched for stories to personalize the power of an arts education and we started by talking with Chris Ford, the director of the widely acclaimed Baltimore School of the arts. He pointed us to Richard.
When we (Darren & Dave) first spoke with Dr. White about his story, we knew immediately that he was not only special, but that he was a downright anomaly. From the lowest of the low to the highest of the high, his journey will inspire anyone, child or adult, no matter their background. Dr. White was left in an abandoned row home as child and still has a scar on his side from where he was gnawed on by rats. He slept under trees and ate out of trash cans. He went on to get his Doctorate in Music from Indiana University, said to be one the hardest, if not the hardest music programs in the country. He's also a tubist in the New Mexico Philharmonic. To give you an idea of the dedication it takes to get that job, consider that there is only one tubist in any orchestra vs other instruments, such as violins that have many positions. It's been said that it's easier to get into the NBA than to get the job as a tubist in a well-regarded orchestra.
Of course, Dr. White's Journey to receiving his Doctorate is rich with inspiration but really what gives this film greater meaning is the dynamic between him and his brother, William, who in many ways represents the greater Baltimore youth population and the power of positive influence. William got his life in the right direction after seeing that his brother was so successful.
What we have captured so far has been nothing short of documentary magic. Completely unexpected cinematic moments caught on film, people who are incredible at articulating this journey and who open their hearts on camera, gorgeous cinematography thanks to some amazing friends who have helped us along the way, and a layered, nuanced, storyline that crescendos into one hell of a moment.
WHY IS THIS FILM IMPORTANT?
Dr. White's life was completely transformed by exposure to the arts as a child. It quite literally, as he puts it "saved" his life. His story is a love letter to the power of a thriving student, teacher relationship, and illustrates the importance of supporting the arts in education.
R.A.W. is our passion project. We wanted to create a documentary highlighting a positive story in the city that we love, Baltimore. We feel that there are too many negative images of our hometown and that its people deserve the chance to have their stories told.
In the heart of the inner city is the Baltimore School of the Arts, one of the few public high schools with a 99% college acceptance rate. It's the school that changed Richard's life. What can schools like the BSA teach us about the benefits of art in education?
WHY SHOULD I DONATE?
First off, if we reach our goal, we'll donate a Brand New 15" Apple Macbook Pro to the Baltimore School for the Arts ($2700 value). The BSA is a Baltimore Public School with a 99% college acceptance rate, which is nearly unheard of for inner city public schools. Let's get them this laptop!
A bigger picture reason to donate is that film causes conversation. Conversation brings awareness. Awareness inspires change. Your generous donation starts it all.
The arts are constantly under attack and usually first on the chopping block when budgets are tight. That thinking continuously proves to be short-sighted with more and more research showing that the arts aren't just for creative people, but necessary for the mental development of future scientists, mathematicians, researchers, as well as artists.
We also hope that this film encourages leaders and politicians in our country to support the arts and recognize that through them, we are instilling curiosity in children and stimulating growth across the educational platform. This film clearly shows the hefty impact arts education can have on children.
We want this film to reach the youth of Baltimore and this country and hope that it inspires them to push for their dreams and not let circumstance dictate their outcome. Your donation will help us get this film in front of as many classrooms and children as possible.
We firmly believe that filmmaking can have great impact in making positive change, and we believe R.A.W. will be an extraordinary film.
WHO ARE YOU?
DARREN DURLACH and DAVID LARSON (Directors) Bert and Ernie. Ren and Stimpy. Batman and Robin. Mario and Luigi. Like many iconic duos before them, Dave and Darren bring out the best in each other, whether they're fighting crime in Gotham City or crafting inspiring films in Charm City.
Dave is a disciplined photographer who uses his technical savvy to capture raw moments on camera. Darren is fascinated by human connection and has the unique ability to pull real and compelling stories out of natural conversation with anyone.
Alone, they are both intuitive storytellers and former journalists with over a decade of experience creating impactful films. Together, they are the founders of EARLY LIGHT MEDIA, an Emmy-Award winning Baltimore production company producing powerful videos that shift perceptions and aspire positively impact the world. Most recently, they co-directed Throw, a moving documentary short that won the Director’s Choice award at Telluride Mountainfilm Festival and was a Vimeo Staff Pick. Throw was the first installment of the Invisible Thread Series passion project that has been seen millions of times on Nat Geo, Aspire Network, Charm TV, film festivals and online.
JODY WELDON (Editor) A master of pace, finding moments, creating emotion-driven sequences and motion graphics, Jody lives for the creative intimacy that comes from working with a passionate and engaged team who care about what they are building. He has edited short films for clients all over the world and been recognized time and time again for his work with industry awards.
WHERE IS MY DONATION GOING?
Your generous contribution will be used to support the project in three areas: production, post production and distribution.
Production:
While the majority of our story has already been shot, it was done with crew that worked pro-bono and equipment that was borrowed. A portion of our donations will go towards reimbursing the hard-working crew who gave their time and equipment so freely to our passion project.
Post Production:
Secondly, a portion of the funds will go towards post production efforts: editing, audio mix and color correction, music composition, etc. While Richard's story is compelling on its own, quality post production makes a good film great.
Distribution:
Finally, we will use a portion of donations to help with screenings, film festival submissions and promotional efforts to make sure the film and its message get as much exposure as possible.
HOW ELSE CAN I SUPPORT YOU?
No matter the amount, every dollar helps us reach our goal. However, we understand that you may not be able make a monetary contribution right now. Here are some other ways you can help support this inspiring film.
Make us Social Media Famous!
Share our campaign with your followers! At the top of the page there are Facebook and Twitter icons to post automatically to your social media pages. Please follow us on Facebook and Instagram @EarlyLightMedia and on Twitter @EarlyLightBalt. Use hashtag #rawesome because it's just . . . awesome.
Spread the Word!
Make sure to tell your family and friends about the project. We’re so excited to bring this film to life and want to make sure we can have as many eyes as possible. Please visit our website www.earlylightmedia.com for more information about us and all of our upcoming projects!
