DEAR AMERICA, 7min., USA, Documentary
Directed by Mary Louis
Dear America digs deeper into the physiology of homeless African American’s in America.
Get to know the filmmaker:
1. What motivated you to make this film?
I have always had the burning passion to help the less fortunate within my community and I noticed how their situations affected them emotionally, mentally and physically and how important their stories are.
2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
3 weeks
3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
Raw reality
4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
I wanted to actually sleep outside with them and experience life being homeless for 24 hours which was a fight between me and my team.
5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
I cried a tear because I knew the impact a few minutes caused, and my mission was complete with this film.
Watch the Audience Feedback Video:
6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
10 years old
7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
This is gonna sound far fetched but it’s “The Godfather”.
I’m a lover of cinema and story telling and no matter how many times I watch it, I discover something new every time.
8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
Overall the experience has been great from start to finish. The communication is clear and honestly I don’t see anything that lacks from my opinion.
9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
Great.
10. What is your favorite meal?
Lasagna, of course.
11. What is next for you? A new film?
I’m currently working on a film “We the people” Based on Huey Newton’s Life.
Matthew Toffolo's Summary 