Beyond the Games
Atlanta, Georgia | Film Short
Drama
Beyond the Games, highlights the human cost of displacement and homelessness caused by large events. It inspires empathy, sparks conversations, and urges viewers to see the humanity behind homelessness.
Beyond the Games
Atlanta, Georgia | Film Short
Drama
1 Campaigns | Georgia, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $5,000 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
33 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
Beyond the Games, highlights the human cost of displacement and homelessness caused by large events. It inspires empathy, sparks conversations, and urges viewers to see the humanity behind homelessness.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Logline: In the shadow of the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, a young man finds himself swept into the city's ruthless efforts to hide its homeless population from the rest of the world.
Synopsis: Set against the backdrop of the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, Beyond the Games follows Benny, a young African American man navigating life-altering events. Recently denied a job and abandoned by his pregnant girlfriend, he spirals into a night of despair. Benny crosses paths with George, an older homeless man, during a police sweep to clear the streets for the upcoming Olympic festivities. Mistakenly arrested, Benny is forced onto a bus intended to transport him out of the city. As he confronts the harsh realities faced by the homeless, Benny embarks on a transformative journey that challenges his perceptions and beliefs.
Themes: Survival, Purpose, and Systemic Neglect
With major events like the 2025 World Cup and the 2028 Super Bowl coming to Atlanta, the themes explored in Beyond the Games are more relevant than ever. Large-scale events often bring economic opportunities, but they can also disrupt the lives of society's most vulnerable, displacing communities and deepening existing inequalities. This film highlights these profound impacts, aiming to spark empathy, foster meaningful conversations, and urge viewers to see the humanity behind homelessness.
As a Georgia native, I have witnessed the harsh realities of homelessness firsthand and feel a deep responsibility to shed light on this issue. While studying at the University of Georgia, I learned that Athens, GA, was among the places where homeless individuals were displaced during the 1996 Olympics. This painful history, coupled with the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized communities, inspired my commitment to amplifying the voices of those too often overlooked.
Inspiration:
Before the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, there were widespread reports of police efforts to remove homeless individuals from public view. The measures taken included:
- Sweeps and Arrests: Police conducted sweeps of areas frequented by homeless individuals, leading to numerous arrests for minor infractions such as loitering or public intoxication.
- Relocation/ Bus therapy: There were instances where homeless people were relocated to areas far from the main Olympic venues to minimize their visibility to tourists and international visitors.
- Jail Sentences: Some homeless individuals were given short jail sentences, effectively removing them from the streets during the duration of the Olympics.
- Eviction from Shelters: Reports also indicated that some shelters were pressured to evict residents to reduce the homeless population visible to visitors.
These actions were part of a broader effort to present a cleaner and more orderly image of the city to the international community during the Olympics. The approach drew significant criticism from advocates for the homeless, who argued that it was an inhumane and temporary solution that failed to address the underlying issues of homelessness.
BENJAMIN (Benny), a late-twenties African American man, educated
but struggling to find his footing. He believes in the American Dream—
that hard work leads to success—but after years of job rejections, he is
starting to see life is not that simple.
GEORGE – A grizzled and bruised war veteran in his 60s . Homeless but
wise, George has accepted the harsh realities of life on the streets. He is
perceptive and grounded, often serving as a voice of reason for Benny,
even as he himself bears the scars of societal neglect.
ASHLEY – Benny’s longtime girlfriend, also in her late 20s. Ashley is
exhausted by her and Benny’s financial struggles, and her patience is
wearing thin as she balances her career and impending motherhood.
OFFICER PETE – A tyrannical police officer in his 40s with a thick
Southern accent and a commanding presence.
TREMBLING MAN – A homeless man in his 40s or 50s, visibly anxious
and traumatized, whose trembling and silent cries reveal the profound
pain and fear stemming from a life of instability.
Beyond the Games, is an exploration of resilience, dignity, and the overlooked humanity of marginalized communities. The 1996 Atlanta Olympics serves as more than just a backdrop—it symbolizes the stark contrast between the city's celebratory image and the systemic neglect of its most vulnerable residents. This story is not just about one man’s journey but about the countless untold stories of those rendered invisible during moments of global celebration. This film is my commitment to storytelling that matters—stories that provoke thought, challenge perceptions, and give a voice to the unseen. My hope is that Beyond the Games will not only spark conversations about systemic injustice but also inspire audiences to see the humanity in those often overlooked.
- Skyla Montgomery, Writer & Director
We invite you to support Beyond the Games, a compelling short film that explores themes of resilience, identity, and the human spirit. As an MFA thesis project directed by Skyla Montgomery and produced by Chelsea Wilson, this film is a culmination of years of hard work, passion, and dedication to impactful storytelling.
Your pledge to our Seed&Spark campaign will help bring this meaningful story to life by covering essential production costs such as equipment, locations, talent, and post-production. By contributing, you are not only supporting independent filmmakers but also championing diverse voices and stories that deserve to be told. Every donation, no matter the size, brings us closer to sharing this powerful film with audiences.
Join us on this journey, and be a part of something that goes beyond the games. Together, we can make this vision a reality!
Bringing Beyond the Games to life is a team effort, and your support makes all the difference! Here’s how you can contribute:
1. Claim Exclusive Incentives – Donate between $10 and $1,000 to unlock unique rewards we’ve created just for our supporters.
2. Contribute Resources – If you have equipment, locations, or other resources we could use, your generosity can help make this film possible.
3. Spread the Word – Like this page and share it with your network to help us reach as many supporters as possible.
4. Follow Our Journey – Stay connected by following us on Instagram @beyondthegamesfilm for updates and behind-the-scenes content.
Your donations will not only bring this vital story to the screen but also support a greater cause. A portion of any funds the film earns through festivals will be donated to a local charity that works with the homeless.
Together, we can make a difference!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Camera Package
Costs $650
By funding the camera package, you ensure we can produce something visually impactful and professional.
Art Department and Wardrobe Needs
Costs $600
The art department and wardrobe are key to building the world of our film. They shape the visual tone and define characters in every scene.
Professional Crew
Costs $1,900
Skilled crew members bring experience, creativity, and efficiency to every part of production.
Bus Rental
Costs $1,000
The bus plays a vital role in one of the key scenes in our film. It is central to the story and ensures we can capture it authentically.
Casting
Costs $850
Great actors bring the story to life, adding depth, emotion, and authenticity to every scene.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
MEET OUR TEAM!
Skyla Montgomery - Director
From a young age, Skyla Montgomery has been deeply immersed in the arts, finding joy in dance, music, photography, and film. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Entertainment and Media Studies from the University of Georgia, which laid the groundwork for her filmmaking career. She is now pursuing a master’s degree in Film, Television, and Digital Media at UGA, further honing her skills and expanding her knowledge.
With a wealth of experience in broadcasting, managing her own photography business, and working on various film sets, Skyla is dedicated to making a powerful impact in the industry. She is passionate about increasing the visibility of Black women directors in the industry and is committed to creating spaces where marginalized communities can be seen and heard on screen. Through her work, Skyla aims to elevate underrepresented voices and bring important stories to light.
Chelsea Wilson - Producer
Chelsea Wilson, a native of Indianapolis, Indiana, holds an MFA in Film, Television, and Digital Media from the University of Georgia. With over five years of experience in filmmaking, she has honed her skills across various aspects of production, particularly in producing and development. Chelsea’s work is driven by her passion for storytelling, with a particular focus on narratives that delve into the complexities of human experiences and mental health. Her approach combines artistic vision with empathy, seeking to create thought-provoking and emotionally resonant content. Chelsea is committed to pushing boundaries in the industry and elevating underrepresented voices. She aspires to make a lasting impact in film and television as a writer and producer.
Gwen Conway - Associate Producer
Gwen Conway is a graduate of the University of Georgia with a B.A. in Entertainment and Media studies. Gwen has a passion for sitcoms and coming-of-age stories and she hopes to be able to write and produce both someday. She is a production assistant working with companies such as Warner Bros. Discovery and freelances as a social media manager. Outside of film and television, Gwen enjoys dancing, running, baking, and her cats.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Logline: In the shadow of the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, a young man finds himself swept into the city's ruthless efforts to hide its homeless population from the rest of the world.
Synopsis: Set against the backdrop of the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, Beyond the Games follows Benny, a young African American man navigating life-altering events. Recently denied a job and abandoned by his pregnant girlfriend, he spirals into a night of despair. Benny crosses paths with George, an older homeless man, during a police sweep to clear the streets for the upcoming Olympic festivities. Mistakenly arrested, Benny is forced onto a bus intended to transport him out of the city. As he confronts the harsh realities faced by the homeless, Benny embarks on a transformative journey that challenges his perceptions and beliefs.
Themes: Survival, Purpose, and Systemic Neglect
With major events like the 2025 World Cup and the 2028 Super Bowl coming to Atlanta, the themes explored in Beyond the Games are more relevant than ever. Large-scale events often bring economic opportunities, but they can also disrupt the lives of society's most vulnerable, displacing communities and deepening existing inequalities. This film highlights these profound impacts, aiming to spark empathy, foster meaningful conversations, and urge viewers to see the humanity behind homelessness.
As a Georgia native, I have witnessed the harsh realities of homelessness firsthand and feel a deep responsibility to shed light on this issue. While studying at the University of Georgia, I learned that Athens, GA, was among the places where homeless individuals were displaced during the 1996 Olympics. This painful history, coupled with the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized communities, inspired my commitment to amplifying the voices of those too often overlooked.
Inspiration:
Before the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, there were widespread reports of police efforts to remove homeless individuals from public view. The measures taken included:
- Sweeps and Arrests: Police conducted sweeps of areas frequented by homeless individuals, leading to numerous arrests for minor infractions such as loitering or public intoxication.
- Relocation/ Bus therapy: There were instances where homeless people were relocated to areas far from the main Olympic venues to minimize their visibility to tourists and international visitors.
- Jail Sentences: Some homeless individuals were given short jail sentences, effectively removing them from the streets during the duration of the Olympics.
- Eviction from Shelters: Reports also indicated that some shelters were pressured to evict residents to reduce the homeless population visible to visitors.
These actions were part of a broader effort to present a cleaner and more orderly image of the city to the international community during the Olympics. The approach drew significant criticism from advocates for the homeless, who argued that it was an inhumane and temporary solution that failed to address the underlying issues of homelessness.
BENJAMIN (Benny), a late-twenties African American man, educated
but struggling to find his footing. He believes in the American Dream—
that hard work leads to success—but after years of job rejections, he is
starting to see life is not that simple.
GEORGE – A grizzled and bruised war veteran in his 60s . Homeless but
wise, George has accepted the harsh realities of life on the streets. He is
perceptive and grounded, often serving as a voice of reason for Benny,
even as he himself bears the scars of societal neglect.
ASHLEY – Benny’s longtime girlfriend, also in her late 20s. Ashley is
exhausted by her and Benny’s financial struggles, and her patience is
wearing thin as she balances her career and impending motherhood.
OFFICER PETE – A tyrannical police officer in his 40s with a thick
Southern accent and a commanding presence.
TREMBLING MAN – A homeless man in his 40s or 50s, visibly anxious
and traumatized, whose trembling and silent cries reveal the profound
pain and fear stemming from a life of instability.
Beyond the Games, is an exploration of resilience, dignity, and the overlooked humanity of marginalized communities. The 1996 Atlanta Olympics serves as more than just a backdrop—it symbolizes the stark contrast between the city's celebratory image and the systemic neglect of its most vulnerable residents. This story is not just about one man’s journey but about the countless untold stories of those rendered invisible during moments of global celebration. This film is my commitment to storytelling that matters—stories that provoke thought, challenge perceptions, and give a voice to the unseen. My hope is that Beyond the Games will not only spark conversations about systemic injustice but also inspire audiences to see the humanity in those often overlooked.
- Skyla Montgomery, Writer & Director
We invite you to support Beyond the Games, a compelling short film that explores themes of resilience, identity, and the human spirit. As an MFA thesis project directed by Skyla Montgomery and produced by Chelsea Wilson, this film is a culmination of years of hard work, passion, and dedication to impactful storytelling.
Your pledge to our Seed&Spark campaign will help bring this meaningful story to life by covering essential production costs such as equipment, locations, talent, and post-production. By contributing, you are not only supporting independent filmmakers but also championing diverse voices and stories that deserve to be told. Every donation, no matter the size, brings us closer to sharing this powerful film with audiences.
Join us on this journey, and be a part of something that goes beyond the games. Together, we can make this vision a reality!
Bringing Beyond the Games to life is a team effort, and your support makes all the difference! Here’s how you can contribute:
1. Claim Exclusive Incentives – Donate between $10 and $1,000 to unlock unique rewards we’ve created just for our supporters.
2. Contribute Resources – If you have equipment, locations, or other resources we could use, your generosity can help make this film possible.
3. Spread the Word – Like this page and share it with your network to help us reach as many supporters as possible.
4. Follow Our Journey – Stay connected by following us on Instagram @beyondthegamesfilm for updates and behind-the-scenes content.
Your donations will not only bring this vital story to the screen but also support a greater cause. A portion of any funds the film earns through festivals will be donated to a local charity that works with the homeless.
Together, we can make a difference!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Camera Package
Costs $650
By funding the camera package, you ensure we can produce something visually impactful and professional.
Art Department and Wardrobe Needs
Costs $600
The art department and wardrobe are key to building the world of our film. They shape the visual tone and define characters in every scene.
Professional Crew
Costs $1,900
Skilled crew members bring experience, creativity, and efficiency to every part of production.
Bus Rental
Costs $1,000
The bus plays a vital role in one of the key scenes in our film. It is central to the story and ensures we can capture it authentically.
Casting
Costs $850
Great actors bring the story to life, adding depth, emotion, and authenticity to every scene.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
MEET OUR TEAM!
Skyla Montgomery - Director
From a young age, Skyla Montgomery has been deeply immersed in the arts, finding joy in dance, music, photography, and film. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Entertainment and Media Studies from the University of Georgia, which laid the groundwork for her filmmaking career. She is now pursuing a master’s degree in Film, Television, and Digital Media at UGA, further honing her skills and expanding her knowledge.
With a wealth of experience in broadcasting, managing her own photography business, and working on various film sets, Skyla is dedicated to making a powerful impact in the industry. She is passionate about increasing the visibility of Black women directors in the industry and is committed to creating spaces where marginalized communities can be seen and heard on screen. Through her work, Skyla aims to elevate underrepresented voices and bring important stories to light.
Chelsea Wilson - Producer
Chelsea Wilson, a native of Indianapolis, Indiana, holds an MFA in Film, Television, and Digital Media from the University of Georgia. With over five years of experience in filmmaking, she has honed her skills across various aspects of production, particularly in producing and development. Chelsea’s work is driven by her passion for storytelling, with a particular focus on narratives that delve into the complexities of human experiences and mental health. Her approach combines artistic vision with empathy, seeking to create thought-provoking and emotionally resonant content. Chelsea is committed to pushing boundaries in the industry and elevating underrepresented voices. She aspires to make a lasting impact in film and television as a writer and producer.
Gwen Conway - Associate Producer
Gwen Conway is a graduate of the University of Georgia with a B.A. in Entertainment and Media studies. Gwen has a passion for sitcoms and coming-of-age stories and she hopes to be able to write and produce both someday. She is a production assistant working with companies such as Warner Bros. Discovery and freelances as a social media manager. Outside of film and television, Gwen enjoys dancing, running, baking, and her cats.