This is a fascinating, heartbreaking, and socially imperative documentary currently under production - by Andy Myers, a filmmaker based out of UNCW Film Studies (the same program that i graduated from). I have not personally had the chance to meet Andy, however, Shannon Silva, an associate professor of Film Studies at UNCW, an accomplished documentary and experimental filmmaker, and a personal mentor and friend, has sent this message: "One last time for people in nosebleed seats! 40 hours left on this doc's fundraising. If you've got it, share it."
I tend to trust her opinion and support infinitely in matters of documentary filmmaking.
After further exploring the project, I couldn't agree more. It appears to not only be socially significant as exposure of a great injustice with far reaching implications, but also one that is being handled with grace and keen production. I offer my full support and encouragement to Andy as he tackles this ambitious project, and further encourage all that are able to get in some last minute donations. Below is a video sample of the doc in process and a link to KickStarter, an online resource for art fundraising - and all hopes that independent cinema and art continues to flourish with new resources of the sort. I have also included a Bio of the filmmaker and a summary of the project for those interested in exploring the film further.
Out of Service: A Documenary by Andy Myers
Bio for Andy Myers
Andy Myers is a documentary filmmaker earning his BA in Film Studies at The University of North Carolina at Wilmington. His main interests include the link between environmental injustice and societal welfare, gay rights issues, and innovative grassroots endeavors. He is a firm believer in the power of nonfiction film to enact social change and strives to make and support documentaries that serve as tools in the fight against inequality and discrimination.
ANDY MYERS - POSTED PROJECT UPDATE #1
GOODBYE to Don't Ask Don't Tell!
The bigoted, nonsensical policy Don't Ask Don't Tell has finally been thrown out. A lot of work and sacrificice from a lot of passionate individuals has payed off and our senetors and congressmen have finally listened to us, and have decided to do whats right. During the signing of DADT Repeal, Obama quoted Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, as saying, "Our people sacrifice a lot for their country, including their lives. None of them should have to sacrifice their integrity as well."
There is still a lot of work that needs to be done in order for the military to start to see a change. There is a certification process happening now which the Pentagon does not know how long will take, and after this theres a 60 day grace period before repeal can take effect. Sara hopes to rejoin ROTC in the Spring of 2012 but is still appealing her debt of $80,000. Earlier she was told that EVEN IF DON'T ASK DON'T TELL WAS REPEALED, SHE WOULD STILL HAVE TO PAY BACK HER SCHOLARSHIP. This seems completely ridiculous to me and hopefully by getting Sara's story out to the public as much as possible, more attention will be directed to the absurdity in this logic.
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