Beyond the Beat
Charlotte, North Carolina | Film Feature
Documentary, Global Celebration
Beyond the Beat is a testament to the profound power of art to heal, unite, and inspire. Set in the war-torn region of Northern Uganda - the story radiates hope and the joy of self-expression. In this divisive moment in history - we invite you to help share its vitality with the world.
Beyond the Beat
Charlotte, North Carolina | Film Feature
Documentary, Global Celebration
1 Campaigns | North Carolina, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $16,025 for post-production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
72 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
Beyond the Beat is a testament to the profound power of art to heal, unite, and inspire. Set in the war-torn region of Northern Uganda - the story radiates hope and the joy of self-expression. In this divisive moment in history - we invite you to help share its vitality with the world.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
LOGLINE
Motivated by their painful past, three best friends start a grassroots arts festival to inspire hope for the next generation in Northern Uganda.
OVERVIEW & IMPACT
Beyond the Beat is an inspiring, provocative documentary shot in the post-conflict zone of Northern Uganda. Before the pandemic hit, we traveled 36 hours to document a creative arts festival that left us inspired to our core. In one of the world's most impoverished places, we witnessed an outpouring of hope, improbable friendships, and epic moments of expression.
In the process, we captured a story that we believe radiates hope and empowers action while honoring the rich culture of Northern Uganda. Our earnest desire is for this project to invite viewers into a new relationship with their pain, offering tools to heal and fresh hope for the future. Working closely with our brothers and sisters of Uganda - we are investing in the Ugandan people to accomplish this goal. Join us on this journey, and together we can create a film that moves!
STORY
Motivated by their painful past: Okurut, Totem, and Geoffrey create a grassroots arts festival to inspire the next generation of Uganda to take hold of their future. Using tools like yoga, meditation, dance, and music - the event pulls together over 2,000 people from Northern Uganda, providing a platform for the youth to express and create. Beyond the Beat has grown to be a force for good and a source of hope in the region. When an eclectic group of westerners ventures over to take part in its creative magic - its story and impact take a new, unexpected shape. Balancing complex topics like abandonment and poverty with an uplifting message of hope & healing - Beyond the Beat is a slice of life that we all need a piece of.
HISTORICAL CONTEXT
In 1988 - famed cult leader Joseph Kony rose to power in Northern Uganda - forming a brutal militia group known as the Lord's Resistance Army. Determined to overthrow the Ugandan government - Kony sparked a civil war that would terrorize the country for two decades.
During this time - the LRA targeted young children as soldiers, abducting over 30,000 kids from their homes, brainwashing them, and arming them to kill. Thousands were murdered in the streets, and nearly two million people were forced into government-run camps riddled with violence and disease. Paralyzed with fear - the victims of this brutal war were left with the impossible task of transitioning back to any sort of "normal."
Today, the situation in Northern Uganda is still deeply unstable. After changing the constitutional term limits, Yoweri Museveni is in his 38th year as President. Relentless his efforts to retain power, Museveni has threatened the safety of anyone who opposes his rule.
STYLE/FEEL
Inspired by the creative culture of Uganda, the film embraces bright, colorful imagery. We re-enact events from the past using animation that blends with the natural world the viewer is experiencing. While exploring painful topics, the film maintains a hopeful tone throughout, embracing comedy in certain areas to accomplish this. Shot with professional-grade equipment using a rugged, run & gun style - we create an raw & authentic tone that embraces intense emotion.
WHY US?
We are storytellers to our core. With one feature-length documentary already released, we've shown that we're fully capable of taking a project from ideation all the way through distribution. Our first film, Blue Marble Sky, explores our cultural understanding of "Love" and is available on Amazon Prime and YouTube. This two year project led us to connect with Okurut George and is what ultimately inspired Beyond the Beat.
Our passion at Blue Marble is telling stories that shine light on our shared humanity in hopes of inspire greater compassion in our world. While it helps to have the technical knowledge - it's our relentless curiosity and ability to connect accross cultures that empowers our vulnerable style of storytelling.
WHY NOW?
After completing Blue Marble Sky, we've had the unique opportunity to fascilitate mental health programs with high school/college aged students. Unforseen technologies, constant comparison, now add in a global pandemic and this is certainly one of the most difficult times to navigate in our history. More than ever we need stories and tools that give us strength through our struggles.
PROJECT UPDATE!
We are pushing towards the finish line with about 1/2 of the film in a rough-cut form. Self-financing the entire project to this point - we now need to pay the people who have helped make it happen.
Our talented team in the US and our collaborators in Uganda have worked extremely hard to get the project to this point. This campaign is to push the project through post-production into a final cut. As you can see on our wishlist, we hope to pay the excellent team of people involved and produce two original songs in Uganda. With much of the leg work already done, we believe we can get this project onto your screen very soon!
TIMELINE TO IMPACT
January - April 2022: Finalize rough-cut.
With multiple meeting times scheduled this winter/spring, we plan to be in rough cut by the beginning of April. From there, we will send the project to be polished (color, music editor, etc.) as we implement feedback and work towards a final draft.
May 1: Deadline for polished cut
By this date, we plan to complete the film and begin preparing for distribution in film festivals, both domestic and international.
Summer 2022: Submit the project to the film festival circuit
With impressive visuals and a powerful message - we believe the project has great potential to make noise in the film festival circuit!
Winter 2022: Finalize plans for distribution
We are already beginning conversations with different platforms on potential distribution options. We believe a platform like Hulu, Curiosity Stream, HBO Max, Amazon Prime, and others are strong possibilities.
Spring 2023: Tour the film and get the word out!
Using our experience leading mindfulness/yoga programming in schools, we hope to do an educational tour at high schools and universities to help spread the word!
SCALING IMPACT
To scale our impact from this project, we've partnered with the Hope Center in Northern Uganda. Their stated mission is "to empower marginalized post-conflict communities with the technical skills and creative mindsets required to succeed in a developing world."
In addition, we plan to bring Okurut, Message, and Totem over to the US to tour the film and engage different communities with yoga/dance/mediation programming.
HOW YOU CAN HELP!
To reach our goal - we'll need your help getting the word out! Here's how you can help.
1. Follow & share on Instagram
Time to spread the creative joy! We've made it easy by creating some simple graphics that are perfect for sharing on Instagram. You can find them in the "BTB" highlight on our instagram page (@bluemarbleday).
2. Text your friends/family the crowdfund link!
Here's a sample text ;)
Hey ____! I found this awesome film that's being made to bring a much-needed message of hope to the world. It's worth checking out and considering getting involved! seedandspark.com/beyondthebeat
4. Join our mailing list at www.bluemarb.com and stay updated on the campaign
Check back for updates on the progress of the campaign and other exciting things happening at Blue Marble. Your support is what drives our impact!
3. Reflect on your own pain and how you find healing.
Was it a message, a person, a film? Consider how this project may be exactly what someone needs to break through seasons of depression and inspire breakthrough. And whether you engage with us or not - please make sure you let the people in your life know that you're there for them.
COME DANCE WITH US!
Historically, the creative economy of Uganda has not received much investment, especially from American films. We can't understate how excited our friends over there are for the opportunity to be celebrated for their creativity. We hope you will join us in honoring their hard work and energy.
However you decide to get involved with this project, we are incredibly grateful. Even if you can’t contribute financially at this time, help us get the word out and make sure to follow along! You can join our mailing list at www.bluemarb.com or stay in touch through Instagram @bluemarbleday. We'd love to hear from you!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Animation
Costs $4,000
We are utilizing animation as a creative tool to elevate the storytelling of the project.
Editing
Costs $4,000
We want to pay our lead editor and help cover cost of softwares.
Travel
Costs $1,500
Support in covering flights for our work weeks. We have multiple planned for the next few months.
Music composition
Costs $3,000
Music will be a key component to this stories success. We want to pay our composer for his work.
Music Production
Costs $5,000
Producing original music and licensing in Uganda.
Music Editor
Costs $1,000
Balancing video with music is key to any successful film.
Colorist
Costs $1,500
Bringing the visuals to life through color!
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
As a team we have formed a unique bond through this project. The lighthearted banter, remote editing sessions and countless zoom calls have brought us close. Something we remind each other is that this project is "bigger than us' and has the potential to create real impact in real lives.
We are constatnltly updating and checking in with our friends in Uganda through whatsapp or instagram. This project only works when collaborationis embraced as a foundational element of our creative process.
Henry Davis (co-director, producer) is a creative entrepreneur from Charlotte, NC. A graduate of Tulane University - Henry has an eclectic mix of experiences directing films and branded media, with a specialty in creating content that strikes emotion. His community work and directorial debut, Blue Marble Sky, helped earn him a reputation as a mental health advocate - working with students to develop tools for living a happier, healthier life.
Fletcher Barnes (co-director, producer) is an artist who graduated from Tulane University with a BA in Film. As a licensed yoga instructor and the creative director of Blue Marble, his perspective on life is viewed through the lens of creativity. His animated nature and expansive imagination helps generate life in the projects . His most recent credits. “Dark my light” actor. Blue marble sky. Director/producer.
McKenzie Beeby- (editor) is a video editor and producer based out of Vail, Colorado. From a young age Mckenzie found his passion in being creative. While in high school he produced several award winning short films and untimely started his career in video storytelling. McKenzie’s day job now is in online marketing and advertising specializing in selling companies stories, but every once in a while he will dedicate his time towards editing feature films that have a compelling story he believes the world needs to see. That is why McKenzie has joined out team.
Austin Anderson (film composer) is an artist, composer, producer, director and audio engineer from Tampa, FL and currently based in Philadelphia. As an adolescent, Austin gravitated towards classical guitar; eventually becoming a core element in his own unique production style and voice. While earning his degree in Drexel University’s Music Industry Recording Arts and Music Production, he produced for various artists in styles from hip-hop and techno to indie rock and R’n’B. In 2021, Austin started self-directing his own music videos. Realizing that visual arts was a key piece in his artistic exploration, Austin started to compose for local films. “It is easy to do too much while composing for a film. My goal with every film is to support the story, let the characters shine and get out of the way! . Credits including psychological horror FREAK, psychological thriller INTERSTATE, and now Beyond the Beat.
Kyle (animator) is an artist, designer, and animator based out of Tampa Fl. He studied at Ringling College of Art in Design where he, majored in motion design with a minor in fine arts. Currently working in the commercial animation industry, he looks for new ways to bring a hand-made feel to our screens full of crisp digital lines and shapes. His foundation of traditional mediums and fine art techniques combined with his contemporary design and animation knowledge shape the artwork he creates today.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
LOGLINE
Motivated by their painful past, three best friends start a grassroots arts festival to inspire hope for the next generation in Northern Uganda.
OVERVIEW & IMPACT
Beyond the Beat is an inspiring, provocative documentary shot in the post-conflict zone of Northern Uganda. Before the pandemic hit, we traveled 36 hours to document a creative arts festival that left us inspired to our core. In one of the world's most impoverished places, we witnessed an outpouring of hope, improbable friendships, and epic moments of expression.
In the process, we captured a story that we believe radiates hope and empowers action while honoring the rich culture of Northern Uganda. Our earnest desire is for this project to invite viewers into a new relationship with their pain, offering tools to heal and fresh hope for the future. Working closely with our brothers and sisters of Uganda - we are investing in the Ugandan people to accomplish this goal. Join us on this journey, and together we can create a film that moves!
STORY
Motivated by their painful past: Okurut, Totem, and Geoffrey create a grassroots arts festival to inspire the next generation of Uganda to take hold of their future. Using tools like yoga, meditation, dance, and music - the event pulls together over 2,000 people from Northern Uganda, providing a platform for the youth to express and create. Beyond the Beat has grown to be a force for good and a source of hope in the region. When an eclectic group of westerners ventures over to take part in its creative magic - its story and impact take a new, unexpected shape. Balancing complex topics like abandonment and poverty with an uplifting message of hope & healing - Beyond the Beat is a slice of life that we all need a piece of.
HISTORICAL CONTEXT
In 1988 - famed cult leader Joseph Kony rose to power in Northern Uganda - forming a brutal militia group known as the Lord's Resistance Army. Determined to overthrow the Ugandan government - Kony sparked a civil war that would terrorize the country for two decades.
During this time - the LRA targeted young children as soldiers, abducting over 30,000 kids from their homes, brainwashing them, and arming them to kill. Thousands were murdered in the streets, and nearly two million people were forced into government-run camps riddled with violence and disease. Paralyzed with fear - the victims of this brutal war were left with the impossible task of transitioning back to any sort of "normal."
Today, the situation in Northern Uganda is still deeply unstable. After changing the constitutional term limits, Yoweri Museveni is in his 38th year as President. Relentless his efforts to retain power, Museveni has threatened the safety of anyone who opposes his rule.
STYLE/FEEL
Inspired by the creative culture of Uganda, the film embraces bright, colorful imagery. We re-enact events from the past using animation that blends with the natural world the viewer is experiencing. While exploring painful topics, the film maintains a hopeful tone throughout, embracing comedy in certain areas to accomplish this. Shot with professional-grade equipment using a rugged, run & gun style - we create an raw & authentic tone that embraces intense emotion.
WHY US?
We are storytellers to our core. With one feature-length documentary already released, we've shown that we're fully capable of taking a project from ideation all the way through distribution. Our first film, Blue Marble Sky, explores our cultural understanding of "Love" and is available on Amazon Prime and YouTube. This two year project led us to connect with Okurut George and is what ultimately inspired Beyond the Beat.
Our passion at Blue Marble is telling stories that shine light on our shared humanity in hopes of inspire greater compassion in our world. While it helps to have the technical knowledge - it's our relentless curiosity and ability to connect accross cultures that empowers our vulnerable style of storytelling.
WHY NOW?
After completing Blue Marble Sky, we've had the unique opportunity to fascilitate mental health programs with high school/college aged students. Unforseen technologies, constant comparison, now add in a global pandemic and this is certainly one of the most difficult times to navigate in our history. More than ever we need stories and tools that give us strength through our struggles.
PROJECT UPDATE!
We are pushing towards the finish line with about 1/2 of the film in a rough-cut form. Self-financing the entire project to this point - we now need to pay the people who have helped make it happen.
Our talented team in the US and our collaborators in Uganda have worked extremely hard to get the project to this point. This campaign is to push the project through post-production into a final cut. As you can see on our wishlist, we hope to pay the excellent team of people involved and produce two original songs in Uganda. With much of the leg work already done, we believe we can get this project onto your screen very soon!
TIMELINE TO IMPACT
January - April 2022: Finalize rough-cut.
With multiple meeting times scheduled this winter/spring, we plan to be in rough cut by the beginning of April. From there, we will send the project to be polished (color, music editor, etc.) as we implement feedback and work towards a final draft.
May 1: Deadline for polished cut
By this date, we plan to complete the film and begin preparing for distribution in film festivals, both domestic and international.
Summer 2022: Submit the project to the film festival circuit
With impressive visuals and a powerful message - we believe the project has great potential to make noise in the film festival circuit!
Winter 2022: Finalize plans for distribution
We are already beginning conversations with different platforms on potential distribution options. We believe a platform like Hulu, Curiosity Stream, HBO Max, Amazon Prime, and others are strong possibilities.
Spring 2023: Tour the film and get the word out!
Using our experience leading mindfulness/yoga programming in schools, we hope to do an educational tour at high schools and universities to help spread the word!
SCALING IMPACT
To scale our impact from this project, we've partnered with the Hope Center in Northern Uganda. Their stated mission is "to empower marginalized post-conflict communities with the technical skills and creative mindsets required to succeed in a developing world."
In addition, we plan to bring Okurut, Message, and Totem over to the US to tour the film and engage different communities with yoga/dance/mediation programming.
HOW YOU CAN HELP!
To reach our goal - we'll need your help getting the word out! Here's how you can help.
1. Follow & share on Instagram
Time to spread the creative joy! We've made it easy by creating some simple graphics that are perfect for sharing on Instagram. You can find them in the "BTB" highlight on our instagram page (@bluemarbleday).
2. Text your friends/family the crowdfund link!
Here's a sample text ;)
Hey ____! I found this awesome film that's being made to bring a much-needed message of hope to the world. It's worth checking out and considering getting involved! seedandspark.com/beyondthebeat
4. Join our mailing list at www.bluemarb.com and stay updated on the campaign
Check back for updates on the progress of the campaign and other exciting things happening at Blue Marble. Your support is what drives our impact!
3. Reflect on your own pain and how you find healing.
Was it a message, a person, a film? Consider how this project may be exactly what someone needs to break through seasons of depression and inspire breakthrough. And whether you engage with us or not - please make sure you let the people in your life know that you're there for them.
COME DANCE WITH US!
Historically, the creative economy of Uganda has not received much investment, especially from American films. We can't understate how excited our friends over there are for the opportunity to be celebrated for their creativity. We hope you will join us in honoring their hard work and energy.
However you decide to get involved with this project, we are incredibly grateful. Even if you can’t contribute financially at this time, help us get the word out and make sure to follow along! You can join our mailing list at www.bluemarb.com or stay in touch through Instagram @bluemarbleday. We'd love to hear from you!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Animation
Costs $4,000
We are utilizing animation as a creative tool to elevate the storytelling of the project.
Editing
Costs $4,000
We want to pay our lead editor and help cover cost of softwares.
Travel
Costs $1,500
Support in covering flights for our work weeks. We have multiple planned for the next few months.
Music composition
Costs $3,000
Music will be a key component to this stories success. We want to pay our composer for his work.
Music Production
Costs $5,000
Producing original music and licensing in Uganda.
Music Editor
Costs $1,000
Balancing video with music is key to any successful film.
Colorist
Costs $1,500
Bringing the visuals to life through color!
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
As a team we have formed a unique bond through this project. The lighthearted banter, remote editing sessions and countless zoom calls have brought us close. Something we remind each other is that this project is "bigger than us' and has the potential to create real impact in real lives.
We are constatnltly updating and checking in with our friends in Uganda through whatsapp or instagram. This project only works when collaborationis embraced as a foundational element of our creative process.
Henry Davis (co-director, producer) is a creative entrepreneur from Charlotte, NC. A graduate of Tulane University - Henry has an eclectic mix of experiences directing films and branded media, with a specialty in creating content that strikes emotion. His community work and directorial debut, Blue Marble Sky, helped earn him a reputation as a mental health advocate - working with students to develop tools for living a happier, healthier life.
Fletcher Barnes (co-director, producer) is an artist who graduated from Tulane University with a BA in Film. As a licensed yoga instructor and the creative director of Blue Marble, his perspective on life is viewed through the lens of creativity. His animated nature and expansive imagination helps generate life in the projects . His most recent credits. “Dark my light” actor. Blue marble sky. Director/producer.
McKenzie Beeby- (editor) is a video editor and producer based out of Vail, Colorado. From a young age Mckenzie found his passion in being creative. While in high school he produced several award winning short films and untimely started his career in video storytelling. McKenzie’s day job now is in online marketing and advertising specializing in selling companies stories, but every once in a while he will dedicate his time towards editing feature films that have a compelling story he believes the world needs to see. That is why McKenzie has joined out team.
Austin Anderson (film composer) is an artist, composer, producer, director and audio engineer from Tampa, FL and currently based in Philadelphia. As an adolescent, Austin gravitated towards classical guitar; eventually becoming a core element in his own unique production style and voice. While earning his degree in Drexel University’s Music Industry Recording Arts and Music Production, he produced for various artists in styles from hip-hop and techno to indie rock and R’n’B. In 2021, Austin started self-directing his own music videos. Realizing that visual arts was a key piece in his artistic exploration, Austin started to compose for local films. “It is easy to do too much while composing for a film. My goal with every film is to support the story, let the characters shine and get out of the way! . Credits including psychological horror FREAK, psychological thriller INTERSTATE, and now Beyond the Beat.
Kyle (animator) is an artist, designer, and animator based out of Tampa Fl. He studied at Ringling College of Art in Design where he, majored in motion design with a minor in fine arts. Currently working in the commercial animation industry, he looks for new ways to bring a hand-made feel to our screens full of crisp digital lines and shapes. His foundation of traditional mediums and fine art techniques combined with his contemporary design and animation knowledge shape the artwork he creates today.