About the Project
By law, (1971 Wild Horse & Burro Act) Wild Horses & Burros are considered to be “living symbols of the historic and pioneer spirit of the West.” The American horse has been a pivotal part of building this nation. Today in 2018 I am on a mission to find out if wild horses are truly as free and revered as the government declared in 1971.
The docu-series will be a participatory documentary with a late Anthony Bourdain style sense of adventure focused on the lives of wild horses within their natural habitat. This is a quest for answers on what life is really like for a wild horse in America in freedom and captivity.
How it will work: I will travel The West to immerse the viewer deep into the magical, yet threatened, world of a wild horse. In the docu-series, I will visit 10 of the 100+ Horse Management Areas (HMAs) in the country capturing the majesty of the horses and the landscape in which they live. Guided by local advocates who have built relationships and acquired expertise with each individual HMA, I will explore what makes these horses unique and national treasures.
In contrast to the freedom of the still-wild horses, we will explore the antithesis of being wild and free. By surveying the holding pens that contain these once-wild horses, we will take the viewer through the government practices that strip freedom from the animal that was once thought as the “Spirit of the West.” From antiquated, traumatizing roundups, to current laws, we will have an open discussion with the government on laws regarding wild horses. As part of this campaign, we will bring attention to the “TIP” program, which facilitates adopting these wild horses in an effort to share this wild beauty with others.
We will also have casual conversations over coffee with all the stakeholders involved with wild horses. The ranchers, BLM, government officials, special interest groups, scientists, geneticists.. the list goes on. We want perspectives from ALL sides.
The purpose of this docu-series is to expose the viewer to the remaining untamed Wild West through the eyes of an American icon, the wild horse. If you would like to learn more please visit takingbackthewest.com
Breakdown of Funding
I am asking for $150,000 to film the docu-series, "Taking Back The West."
The cost breakdown is as follows:
Crew:
- Director (This will be me and I am donating my time)
- Producer
- DP/A Cam operator
- B Cam Operator/Drone Operator
- Sound / Gaffer / Production assistant
- And one more TBD
Equipment:
- A Cam Set
- B Cam Set
- Lenses
- Drone
- Sound / Mics
- Drives
- Steady Cam
Travel/Living Expenses:
- Food
- 2 Four Wheel Drive Vehicles / Gas
- Housing
- Flights
Post:
- Editing
- Color Correct
- Music
- Mix
Risks & Challenges
The biggest risk is production costs. If we do not raise enough, the funds might be used to just film one kick ass pilot to pitch to networks. If that is the case, I will make sure everyone knows they are getting that in their digital downloads when it is ready. I'm currently getting numbers from producers and everyone is suggesting going with that instead of filming a whole series in one shot.
Another main concern is: how do we get people to listen and then take action? I'm hoping by shedding light on this issue in a compelling way, people will be motivated to learn more. I intend to make sure this isn't a blame game, but is instead truthful and solution-oriented. How do we get all of the various stakeholders to be on the same page and work together?
Other Ways You Can Help
Can't contribute? That doesn't mean you can't help:
And that's all there is to it.