The Story

Reach is a UCLA MFA short film about a young girl named Vi, who is constantly getting whisked away by her imagination. Vi struggles to balance her love for both basketball as well as the vast unknowns of space travel while her strict, but loving father is the coach of her basketball team.

This coming-of-age story is incredibly personal to Director, Shelby Halliman, who was inspired by Mae Jemison, the first black women astronaut to travel into space, ever since she was a child. It is an ode to black women and children who have not been able to see much of those stories come to life due to the lack of representation in the film industry. Growing up, most of the coming-of-age stories, like today, were not very reflective of the diverse society that we actually have. Reach is about exploring the unknown and finding the confidence within yourself to reach for the stars.

Reach will be a combination of animation and live-action. It is a universal story that invites everyone on the adventure. 

Our Mission

We strive to depict all types of stories and experiences on screen. It is important that people, no matter who they are, are able to watch a movie that is reflective of their own lives. As a woman of color, I always longed for more stories that included people who look like me and can understand what I'm going through. I would look up at the screen and long for those moments. As a result, I became a filmmaker and vowed that I would make those moments happen for the next person looking up at the screen.

The Team

Writer and Director - Shelby Virginia

Shelby Halliman is a Narrative Directing Student attending UCLA's graduate film program. Falling in love with filmmaking at a young age, she discovered that every life lesson she had ever learned was through a film in various ways, shapes, and forms. Shelby received a BA in Communication at Wake Forest University, graduating with honors and found that, even with a small film program, she could execute big ideas. Through the art of storytelling, as a director, Shelby strives to build a connection between the story and the audience. Furthermore, Shelby aspires to make someone laugh, cry, challenge their minds, and more as she continues to grow as a filmmaker.

Producer - Khadija Roane

Khadija is a native of Richmond, Virginia, and a graduate of the illustrious Howard University. Khadija is currently an MFA student in UCLA's Producers Program and prides herself on being a champion for creators of color. After graduating Magna Cum Laude with a BFA in Theatre Arts, Khadija moved to Los Angeles and found herself unknowingly serving as a producer on a myriad of different projects. Khadija is steadfast to her lifelong commitment to utilizing the craft of storytelling to create changes in human interactions and relationships that transform cultural and social institutions with a focused interest on expanding BIPOC narratives, disadvantaged youth, gender, racial justice, and mental health.

Cinematographer - Raquel Hagman

Raquel Hagman graduated from the University of Central Florida with a BFA in Film Production. After graduation, she worked as a videographer/editor for the NBC local news affiliate in Cleveland Ohio. She has received a regional Edward R. Murrow award for an investigative series on the opioid crisis 'Riders on the Storm' in 2018 and has been nominated for a couple regional Emmys. Raquel is currently enrolled in the UCLA Graduate Cinematography program and loves being a full time Director of Photography.

What We Need & What You Get

We intend to put our best foot forward as we venture into the exciting world of production. Our mission is to make a high-quality film at a minimum cost. Here is what the funds will be used towards:

• Cast and Crew
• Animation 
• Production Design 
• Costumes, hair and make-up
• Locations (basketball court, house, backyard)
• Camera and sound equipment
• Insurance
• Food and safety equipment

Risks & Challenges

We understand that is a very critical time that has affected everyone in more ways than one. Our  team is dedicated and will abide by all Covid-19 guidelines and to ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone who is a part of this project.

Other Ways You Can Help

Please spread the word and follow our Instagram page @reach.film for more updates on the film!