About the Film:

Civil Rights Movement activist, TSSAA Hall of Fame Basketball Coach, swim coach, teacher, high school musical director, father, grandfather, and friend to many, Coach Sylvester Ford Sr. is known by many as "Big Time." The nickname was given to him as a kid for his height, but "Big Time" has shown time and time again why his nickname is about way more than how he looks– it's part of how he's shown up big time– for his family, his students, his players, his church, and his community.

Big Time chronicles the life of legendary Memphis basketball coach, Sylvester Ford Sr. while inspiring us all to live "big time" lives along the way.

Why Me? Why This? Why Now?

I've always been a storyteller, and I've always enjoyed listening to family stories too. Through the years, my grandparents have shared stories from the Civil Rights Movement that have made their legacies even more real to me. But, I haven't just heard about the big ways they've lived, I've seen it firsthand. So, when my grandad asked me to capture his story, I said yes and suggested a documentary as a way to capture his voice and the voices of people he's inspired, here and now.

Why You?

Many of you have heard me talk about my grandparents– whether through blogs, videos, or stories I've told you. However, this project is about more than my family and me. By contributing to this vision, you're helping share an inspiring story way bigger than all of us. 

Check out this (draft) scene where my grandad shares about his experience hearing Dr. MLK Jr give his "I've Been to the Mountaintop" speech.

Where the Project is Now:

The film is now in post-production (i.e. principal photography is complete). What does that mean for this documentary?

• Scriptwriting - Unlike a narrative film, for a documentary, you write your script in retrospect. This fundraiser will help me purchase tools (like a transcription service) to make the scriptwriting easier.
• Editing - I'm working with a local editor and fellow UTK grad named Jack Dickson on this project. He'll be editing this project from start to finish, and this fundraiser will help us get tools to make the final cut even more special!
• Animation - There are a few scenes that could benefit from animation where there are gaps in footage and photos. 
• Legal Fees + LLC Set-up - I'm working with an attorney to get deal memos and releases for the project, and I've set up an LLC specific to the project (a best practice) for legal protection.
• Distribution - After the film is complete, I want to premiere it with you, and also submit it to some film festivals. This fundraiser will help me reach that goal!

Visit the wishlist tab to learn more about the costs associated with these tools and make a pledge!

How to Support:

• A contribution in any amount is greatly appreciated! There are incentive amounts to consider as well!
• Even if you can't contribute financially, sharing this webpage with your friends and family is another great way to help. (See below for some copy inspo).
• Prayers and encouragement are also greatly appreciated!

SPREAD THE WORD:

Here is some copy you might consider using, alongside some images!

IG STORY/FEED* - My friend @jasmineisntblue is creating a documentary film on her grandfather, "Big Time," that'll inspire us all to live a big life! Join me and pledge to support "Big Time Documentary" here: [INSERT Campaign LINK on IG Story]. #BlackFilmmakers #BlackWomeninFilm #BigTimeDoc

FB - My friend @Jasmine Blue is creating a documentary film on her grandfather, "Big Time," that'll inspire us all to live a big life! Join me and pledge to support "Big Time Documentary" here: [INSERT Campaign LINK on page]. #BlackFilmmakers #BlackWomeninFilm #BigTimeDoc

LinkedIn - My friend @Jasmine Blue is creating a documentary film on her grandfather, "Big Time," that'll inspire us all to live a big life! Join me and pledge to support "Big Time Documentary" here: [INSERT Campaign LINK on page]. #BlackFilmmakers #BlackWomeninFilm #BigTimeDoc

*Here's a photo you could use for the IG story. Or, feel free to share a post to your feed w/me or I can share a documentary photo with you! 

THANK YOU <3