Let's make a MOVIE: "Pit Bulls & Piranhas"

Let’s make a MOVIE!

Hello and welcome to our campaign for 'Pit Bulls and Piranhas'! My name is Tabatha Mudra and I am a queer, lesbian cinematographer who thrives on provoking emotions that elicit action and change.

Our film is a powerful trauma-drama set in 1987 that explores the struggles faced by a lower-class family. Through their story, we ask an important question: what does it take to break the cycle of generational trauma?

Our film is a raw and unflinching portrayal of the struggles faced by a lower-class family living in marginalized communities within our society. Unlike many other films that glamorize or sensationalize trauma, we're committed to exposing the harsh realities faced by those who have experienced childhood trauma.

For those who may be unfamiliar with this kind of abuse, our film will elicit compassion and understanding for the invisible struggles carried by survivors. However, we want to give fair warning to those who have experienced their own personal traumas: this film may be a visceral experience. Please make sure you have the ability to properly take care of yourself during and after watching.

To bring our story to life, we need to work with two screen-trained pit bulls and their handlers. Additionally, one scene involves piranhas, which are a restricted species in the state of Florida. We're working around this by using their kin-fish, the Pacu. Safety is our top priority, so we're bringing on an experienced stunt coordinator to ensure safety during any action scenes.

While we're operating on a low-budget, this is a period piece set in the 80’s which will require sourcing props and locations that are harder to come by. We're asking for your help to raise just over $28,000 to cover the costs of production. Our goal is to raise $14,000 in May and another $14,000 in June.

By supporting our film, you're not only helping us create a powerful story, but you're also contributing to important conversations about animal welfare and domestic violence. Every donation counts, and we're grateful for your support.

If only 280 people support at the $100 level, we will easily achieve our goal. We know there will be people who will support at the $1000 level and above, so this will make it even easier.

Your support for our proof of concept will help provide the necessary data for large grants and film supports. Thank you for your interest and support.

Please donate to support an indie queer filmmaker now! If you donate at the $1000 level or above, your name will be featured in the credits.

We invite you to be a part of the journey into this filmmaking extravaganza. Follow us on social media where we will be sharing updates, behind the scenes and more.

Director of Photography & Co-Director: Tabatha Mudra is an award-winning director, filmmaker, and producer who has been in the photography and film industry for over 2 decades. She specializes in cinematography for people who love visceral, honest stories. With her unique vision and collaborative leadership, she focuses on raising social consciousness using filmmaking. Her films have been featured for PBS, United Nations Women’s Fund, and American Heart Association. She is the recipient of the Dejunius Hughes award for activism and is a back-to-back winner of the 48-hour film festival with the first female-led team in Miami. And when she’s not creating films, you can find her indulging in kitten rescue efforts, gourmet teas, and the occasional lip-sync battle.

Co-Director: Lexi Goldi is a writer, director, and social advocate. Through her films, she strives to show true human reflection within stories of adversity. Her production company, Goldi Films, is set to produce her debut feature film, Baby, in 2023. Lexi values herself in finding compassion within the adverse human experience. Finding perspective in unthinkable realities allows her to ground her characters. Navigating her creative voice has led her to build a strong female-based artistic community. She has consistently made empowering others the foundation of her success, emphasizing the crucial importance of equality.

Editor: Erin Lee is a multicultural producer and filmmaker with roots in California, South Florida, Canada, and the Caribbean. She has worked as a technical director for internationally acclaimed music festivals, and has helped to produce broadcast documentary films that advocate for human rights and the environment, including the 4-part PBS series "Standing on Sacred Ground". She has worked as director and creative lead, shooting, and editing for corporate, startup, documentary, and indie film clients. She is currently working as the finishing editor for the Miami-based pilot television series Jammerz.

First Assistant Camera: Amanda Guerra, a native of Miami, is a talented video professional who has been passionate about filmmaking since she was in middle school. With an unwavering commitment to her craft, Amanda never shies away from a challenge and constantly strives to improve her skills. Over the last decade, she has honed her skills in various roles including video editor, producer, and first AC, to name a few. For Amanda, creating impactful videos is more than just a job, it's a calling. She firmly believes that there is no better way to convey a message than through a well-crafted video, and she is dedicated to working with talented teams to bring great stories to life.

{END}