ABOUT ![]()
You People is a satirical comedy about modern stereotypes, chronicling the life of an intelligent, white-washed, African-American college student, adopted by a liberal Caucasian family, who has a crisis of identity while growing up in bible belt, white suburbia with his urban hip-hop culture obsessed, white best friend. When an attractive girl on campus approaches the black protagonist based on his "presumed" stereotypical traits, he has to undergo a "cultural transformation" with the help of his white companion to tap into his inner "blackness." With a fresh, topical examination of identity, an eclectic mix of minority characters (E.g. Asians, LGBT, Hispanics, etc.) playing against type, and a strong emphasis on self-discovery, empathy, and tolerance,You People aims to tell a conventional story, unconventionally.
OUR MISSION for ![]()
Exploring issues about race, gender, and sexual orientation in an unapologetically human and comedic fashion, our mission is to give a fresh voice, an atypical perspective, and a thoughtful examination of minority subcultures not regularly depicted in cinema. It is of paramount importance that our film generates a sense of compassion, intrigue, and provocation to inspire growth and diversity in the industry, presenting minority characters as fully-realized, three-dimensional human beings and not merely simplified archetypes.
WHY is ![]()
significant???
If all we ever knew about each other, particularly as it pertains to minorities, was that which was depicted in the media, we'd all be justified in viewing each other (and ourselves) through a narrow, one-sided lens. The more attention that is spent exploring the many facets and layers of an individual, the more empathy, understanding, and commonality is revealed. We believe this story is essential because it dares to "look closer" into the depths of its characters in an effort to inspire others to mirror the same practice.
CAMPAIGN GOALS for ![]()
Independent filmmaking can be a grueling, exhausting, and EXPENSIVE process. However, it is a necessary evil that we artists endure because we LOVE to express ourselves creatively and because we BELIEVE we have something of merit to say.
In exchange of your generous donations, we would like to reward our donors with !EXCLUSIVE! perks, prizes, and updates on the prospective production. From unique giveaways (T-Shirts, signed scripts/DVDs, posters), film credits (YOU can be FEATURED in the MOVIE!), to exclusive events (premiere parties, on-set visits, etc.), there are more than a few incentives to become a part of our eclectic You People family.
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MONEY BREAKDOWN for ![]()
NOTE: This is the second Indiegogo campaign we've launched (phase 2) for "You People" to secure our ultimate budgetary goals. We have asked for $2,500 this time around to ensure that we meet a campaign goal. We fully intend (and NEED) to exceed this goal to provide for the following (see below). We have successfully secured $10,000 of our ultimate goal.
We are seeking to raise a TOTAL budget of $50,000 to secure the following:
- COVER expenses for preliminary Pre-Production Costs (office space, supplies, clerical services, etc.)
- HIRE Key Crew and Talent (camera department, casting, actors, etc.)
- OBTAIN a Limited Liability Company (LLC) and insurance.
- SECURE locations for shooting.
- FINANCE production requirements (equipment rentals, catering, etc.)
THE MAN BEHIND THE MAGIC (MADNESS?)
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LARON CHAPMAN (writer, co-producer, director) is a passionate 26 year old freelance screenwriter from the state of OKLAHOMA with a Bachelor's degree in Film and Media Studies and a background in journalism and film production. From reality television ("Food Network," "FOX," "Discovery Channel," etc.) to Academy Award nominated films ("August: Osage County"; Weinstein Company; Meryl Streep, Julia Roberts, etc.), he has worked with an electric variety of professionals in the ever-complex and competitive entertainment industry.
"As an aspiring independent filmmaker, I am eternally grateful for every experience, every obstacle, every influence, every triumph, and every disappointment I've encountered. It is these elements that have fueled my passion for telling stories, offering a unique perspective, and generating empathy, tolerance, and creative expression through the invaluable power of art."
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
With every ambitious project, there are big RISKS involved. However, those are obstacles our team will work diligently to triumph over with enthusiastic zeal, professionalism, hard work, and consideration to EVERYONE who has made it possible.
Every donation, every verbal endorsement, every connection, and every contribution to this campaign will magnify the voices of communities yearning to be acknowledged, valued, and celebrated in the arts. It would provide a professional space for a diverse group of people to hone in on their creative, collaborative, and unique skills through a labor of love.
Our contributors are not merely donors, but an extension of our production, our creative objectives, and our mission with this unique story. Not everyone has the ability to provide monetary support. However, your time and your voice is equally valuable to us. Help us get the word out on this project by using Indiegogo's sharing tools as well as your very own social media outlets. It could make all the difference. I look forward to our future together with this exciting project. Help us put dreams into ACTION!
