Introduction
Hello, Mike Maloy here, Emmy & Peabody award winning documentary producer and American history aficionado. I am currently in post production on a new film that I am passionate about and am humbly asking for your support to complete the film.
This documentary tells the compelling story of a father-daughter duo who delve into the real-life tale behind the beloved novel, Island of the Blue Dolphins. What begins as a shared literary interest evolves into a profound exploration of history, culture, and identity.
The Legend of Ahiichumay is a legend you should know about. Ahiichumay is a Luiseno word meaning 'my mouth is an orphan little mockingbird' and refers to someone who laments the loss of a loved one because there is no one left to talk to. It's the name the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians gave the Lone Woman of San Nicolas Island who famously and heroically lived alone on her island for 18 years after her people were slaughtered. She was left with no one to talk to or tell her amazing story of survival to.
Our Mission
To bring to life the extraordinary true story of the Lone Woman of San Nicolas Island, through a groundbreaking documentary that challenges conventional narratives and honors indigenous voices.
This film not only uncovers a fascinating piece of American history but also addresses crucial contemporary issues:
Preservation of indigenous stories and cultures
Ethical approaches to archaeology and historical research
The intersection of spirituality and science
Women's resilience and strength in the face of adversity
By supporting this project, you're contributing to a narrative that will educate, inspire, and provoke thoughtful discussions for generations to come.
What We Need & What You Get
We are seeking $25,000 in completion funds so that additional interviews and VFX work may be completed and the film finished. This has been self-financed to this point but we are currently tapped out.
The interviews will be with experts and tribal representatives. The VFX work will utilize groundbreaking AI to visualize the mystical and spiritual nature of Ahiichumay's journey.
Depending on contribution level, we are offering multiple unique perks.
The Impact
Investing in this documentary means contributing to a project with significant artistic, cultural, and social value, promising the satisfaction of supporting a meaningful and impactful film. By supporting this project, you're contributing to a narrative that will educate, inspire, and provoke thoughtful discussions for generations to come.
Background
Island of the Blue Dolphins, a world-wide best seller, is a compelling tale of survival, courage, and the indomitable human spirit that has inspired and empowered generations of young girls.
It is based on a true story, The Lone Woman of San Nicolas Island. She was a Nicoleno, a tribe with a history that goes back over 10,000 years. In the early 1800’s, the men of her tribe were slaughtered by Russian fur trappers. When missionaries sent a ship to bring survivors to the mainland, she chose to stay behind and lived alone there for 18 years. Some say she was divinely inspired and her hermitage was for a reason. Her legend grew, she became known as a ‘Female Crusoe’ or the ‘Wild Woman’. After 18 years alone, she was brought to the mainland too, only to die just seven weeks later. She spoke a language no one understood though she valiantly tried to tell her story and explain her journey.
The Film
Here's the deck and trailer:
http://empiricaltv.com/the-legend-of-ahiichumay
The Legend of Ahiichumay offers a profound exploration of history, spirituality, and justice, shedding light on the real-life inspiration behind a beloved novel. It emphasizes the importance of including indigenous voices in historical narratives, showcases the intersection of archaeology and spirituality, and highlights a significant legal victory for cultural preservation. By watching, viewers will gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of history and the enduring significance of honoring and respecting indigenous stories and traditions.
Here's the first 10 minutes of the film which illustrates our unique approach to combining documentary with progressive VFX:
https://vimeo.com/970708716
Here's our Instagram page:
https://www.instagram.com/ahiichumay
Who Will Watch:
History Enthusiasts: Those intrigued by uncovering the real stories behind historical events and figures.
Literature Fans: Readers of Island of the Blue Dolphins who want to explore the true tale that inspired the novel.
Archaeology Buffs: Individuals fascinated by archaeological discoveries and the mysteries of ancient civilizations.
Indigenous Rights Advocates: People passionate about indigenous culture, history, and `the importance of preserving and honoring their narratives.
Families and Educators: Those looking for educational, inspiring content that fosters curiosity and cultural awareness.
Why Invest in This Documentary:
Unique Storytelling: This film offers a rare and compelling blend of literature, history, archaeology, and indigenous spirituality, appealing to a broad audience and standing out in the documentary genre.
High Engagement Potential: With a built-in audience of Island of the Blue Dolphins fans, history enthusiasts, and advocates for indigenous rights, the film has strong potential for widespread interest and viewership.
Cultural Relevance: The documentary addresses timely and important issues, such as the inclusion of indigenous voices and the ethical considerations of archaeological practices, making it highly relevant and impactful.
Proven Track Record: The story involves significant milestones, including the discovery of the Lone Woman's cave and a landmark legal victory for the Pechanga tribe, ensuring a captivating and emotionally resonant narrative.
Educational Value: The film has the potential to be a valuable educational resource for schools, universities, and cultural institutions, broadening its distribution channels and longevity.
Positive Social Impact: By investing, you support a project that promotes cultural preservation, awareness, and respect for indigenous histories, contributing to a greater societal good.
Festival and Award Potential: With its unique and powerful story, the documentary is well-positioned for film festivals and awards, providing additional exposure and prestige.
Risks & Challenges
The risks are minimal as a quality film will be made with whatever help you can manage.
Other Ways You Can Help
- Spread the word through your social media
- Share this campaign with your contacts