Join the push to elevate "Zoe. A surf story."

My name is Gaby Scott, I'm the director and editor of the short documentary Zoe. A surf story. I'm so proud and excited to ask you to join me in finishing this incredible piece.

Zoe is a force to be reckoned with; at 16 she's surfed a 20+ foot out at Mavericks (if you haven't heard of it – look that wave up, it's HUGE and terrifying!), and she's a high-level competitor in national surf competitions with her eyes on the world tour. Her personality, positive attitude and ethos is contagious and inspires the best from us all.

This project deserves the proper finishing treatment, so we are asking for your support and backing as we push to get this piece over the finish line!

ABOUT THE FILM

For those of you new to the project, the film follows 16-year-old surfer Zoe Chait as she goes after her dreams, in an inspiring exploration of female strength, dedication, and commitment. A short trailer from the film can be found here.

Since completion in July of this year, Zoe. A surf story. has won "Best Doc Short" at the Chicago Women's Film Festival, "Best Womens Short" at the Independent Shorts Awards LA, and acceptance into the Bernal Heights Outdoor Film Festival with a screening over the weekend of September 8th. The film is also currently under review at many more upcoming Film Festivals and is receiving extremely positive responses from those that have had the opportunity to view it.

WHAT WE'RE ASKING

In response to all of the enthusiasm for the film, I am seeking funding for some additional elements that will elevate the production quality and give the film the professional finish it deserves as it enters this next stage of exposure and potential distribution.

Our Level 1 goal is $15,000 and would cover basic finishing costs. The Level 2 goal ($20,000) would truly elevate the film to its fullest potential with a professional color and sound pass applied. A project of this scope would typically necessitate a finishing budget between 50k – 100K. Due to longstanding relationships with professionals in my industry (offering generously discounted rates) and their belief in Zoe's story, I would be able to cover the finishing costs with the funding goals I'm raising.

For those who may be asking, "Wait, how is it winning awards and not finished?" The film is complete structurally and able to be viewed but would come to life from specific enhancements such as a final professional color pass and sound mix. Here are some examples of what a color pass does!

We'd also love to license some specific music and will use any additional funds raised to compensate those who have generously donated their expertise, time, and creativity to the project.

Speaking of: this project has been made possible to this point by the generosity and talent of some AMAZING cinematographers and directors of photography. They include Michael Enos , Chad Leto , Drew Kass and Lawrence Rickford. Composer, Sami Freeman, has been a part of the initial sound engineering post phase. And Ayumi Ashley is on deck for final color grading. I want to give them the hugest thanks, and you should definitely check out their other work!

I deeply appreciate any and all levels of support in getting these finishing touches funded and completed before Zoe. A surf story. is screened in San Francisco on the weekend of September 8th!

For those of you who may not be able to attend that screening, I will host a private online screening of the upgraded film for all the supporters who have shared in this incredible journey. The anticipated date for this exclusive online screening event is 9/1/2023.

WHERE THE MONEY IS GOING

Level 1 – $15,000 total

Music

Basic color

Basic sound mix

Stock

Film festival submissions

Level 2 – $20,000 total

Music + final composing 5.1 mix

Professional color

Professional sound mix

Stock

Film festival submissions

Compensating crew for their incredible work

ABOUT ME

My name is Gaby Scott, and I'm a filmmaker based in San Francisco. My curiosity for the hidden quotidian led me to create, direct and edit the award-winning short film, Angela Wilson, a butcher's story. What began as a project about an artisan in the food industry, a female butcher in a traditionally male-dominated profession, became the tale of a last pioneer in our gold rush-incentivized city.

My focus is on female-driven narratives – the cyclical interactions they have with their shifting landscapes and the philosophies that drive them. My work strives to embody that philosophy – as well as the dedication and the sacrifice it takes when you commit to something you love.

I am hugely grateful for any donation, of any size. We all deeply appreciate your belief in this project.