FILM - MY FRIEND MICHAEL JONES

'My Friend Michael Jones' is a short film drama set in Otara, featuring an eclectic ensemble of Polynesian characters dealing with issues relating to anxiety disorder, bullying and suicide prevention. 

The story is about a high school misfit with severe OCD who forms an unlikely friendship with a popular classmate through a shared passion for music and dance.

Ultimately, the film is an uplifting tale which promotes the theme of 'acceptance'.

The title role is to be played by Villa Junior Lemanu. A gifted performer, Villa is currently studying dance at University of Auckland and participating in professional theatre productions with Massive Company.

The project is produced by Alex Lovell and Eldon Booth, co-directed by Samson Rambo and Ian Leaupepe -  our purpose is to create a film with New Zealand appeal that spotlights important issues within our community and presents an entertaining, thought-provoking point of view.

The production has been fortunate to receive $10,000 funding from New Zealand Film Commission under the Fresh Shorts initiative based on the quality of our concept and script.

We are very grateful to have the backing of the Film Commission and now that we have the opportunity - we wish to make the most of it!

It's no secret that filmmaking is an expensive medium to work within - our goal is to raise more money so we can attain the best production value possible and give our film every chance to succeed in the highly competitive New Zealand film festival circuit.

We have set our minimum target at $4,000 but with your help, we hope to raise as much as possible.

Every donation is greatly appreciated large or small - the more funds we can raise, the greater production value we can attain with regards to locations (including permit and traffic management fees), stunt co-ordination costs and the ability to hire the best camera and lighting equipment available (along with a crew with the skill and experience needed to operate it).

We aim to bring together the best New Zealand talent from the areas of filmmaking and dance to create a final product rich in entertainment and cultural values - one that our community and supporters can be proud of.

Thank you for taking the time to read and for showing an interest in our project. 

Keep an eye out for the #MFMJ hashtag on social media - please DONATE and SHARE and help us realise our vision to its fullest potential!