Bound For Glory
Los Angeles, California | Film Feature
Comedy, Drama
An Asian American story of identity, purpose, and love. Based on my Hollywood journey, it’s about chasing a dream that may never love you back — and the quiet triumph of the human spirit to keep going.
Bound For Glory
Los Angeles, California | Film Feature
Comedy, Drama
1 Campaigns | California, United States
32 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
$4,451
Goal: $11,000 for production
An Asian American story of identity, purpose, and love. Based on my Hollywood journey, it’s about chasing a dream that may never love you back — and the quiet triumph of the human spirit to keep going.
Participating In
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Will Reeves is a talented but overlooked writer/actor scraping by in Los Angeles, juggling humiliating auditions, low-wage gigs, and a mounting existential crisis. His only anchor is Ballpark — a deeply personal script he’s poured his soul into about a complicated relationship between a father and son. Just as he considers leaving LA for good, a chance encounter with Ariella Graves — a movie star’s daughter with her own identity struggles — sets off a chain of events that might change everything.
When Ariella shares his script with her father and studio execs come calling, Will is offered a dream deal — but only if he gives up control and steps aside as it's star. Faced with the seduction of success versus staying true to his story, Will must confront what he’s really chasing: fame, validation, or something deeper. Aided by his passionate but flawed best friend Jayson, tough-love acting coach Bobby, and a mysterious Uber driver named Bo, Will embarks on a journey of radical acceptance — learning that the greatest success might be simply knowing who you are.
Director's Statement
Bound For Glory is a grounded, emotional, and at times funny story about a struggling Asian American actor in Los Angeles who finally gets his shot —only to realize it may not be all what it seems. It’s about chasing a dream that doesn’t always love you back, and what it means to keep going anyway.
Based on my own life and experiences in Hollywood, this film is a deeply personal reflection on identity, purpose, and self-worth. It’s also a story of quiet rebellion: of saying “no” when the world expects you to say "yes". A story for anyone who’s ever believed in a dream.
We first made Bound For Glory as a short film in 2020, during the peak of the pandemic. With zero budget, minimal gear, and a whole lot of heart, we created something raw and honest — and were lucky enough to license it to JoySauce, a streaming platform dedicated to AAPI stories. That little film reached people. This feature version goes even deeper. This is our chance to tell the whole story.
Why Me?
As an Asian American actor, I’ve lived this story. The rejection. The code-switching. The calls to make something “more relatable”, "more marketable" — when what they really meant was “less you.” Bound For Glory is the film I needed to see when I was starting out, and the one I still need now.
Why This Story?
Because not enough films explore the quiet pain of being overlooked with honesty, vulnerability, and dark humor. This isn’t just about one actor. It’s about artists, dreamers, and anyone who’s had to redefine what success looks like in a world that doesn’t see them.
Why Now?
Representation is improving but there’s still a lack of authentic, emotionally complex stories centered on Asian American characters. In the era of identity fatigue, mental health burnout, and content overload, Bound For Glory is a breath of fresh air. It’s intimate, real, and unafraid to be still. And it’s now or never — because these stories deserve the spotlight today, not five years from now.
Why Should You Join Us?
Because you believe in stories that matter. Because you know what it feels like to try, and try, and still be told “no.” Because you're tired of watching the same actors in the same kind of movies. Help us tell this story — for all of us still reaching for the light.
Next Steps
We’ve written the full feature screenplay, built an incredible team of AAPI and underrepresented creatives, and locked in key locations in both Los Angeles and Pittsburgh. We’re aiming to shoot in Fall 2025 and are now raising funds to cover our most essential needs: crew, equipment, locations, music, and cast.
This Seed&Spark campaign is the launchpad. With your help, we’ll raise $11,000 to secure production elements and build momentum as we approach full financing. If we surpass our goal (yes please!!), we'll be able to expand our post-production budget and boost our festival and distribution reach!
When Will You See It?
We plan to complete filming by end of 2025 with a premiere run at major film festivals (SXSW, Sundance, Tribeca, TIFF) and eventually release in theaters and/or on streaming platforms.
How You Can Help Right Now
- Pledge: Every dollar counts (seriously).
- Follow: It’s free and helps us gain visibility on Seed&Spark.
- Share: Use the text below to spread the word!
Share This Film (Copy/Paste!)
Please consider copying and pasting the following to your favorite social media platforms:
Help bring an Asian American indie film to life! Bound For Glory is a powerful story about identity, purpose, and chasing a dream that doesn’t always love you back. Support now on @SeedandSpark!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Crew That Bleeds for the Story
Costs $2,000
Great films are made by great crews, and every dollar helps us hire passionate, professional artists who believe in the vision.
Top-Notch Equipment
Costs $2,000
A cinematic look needs beautiful lenses, lighting that moves you, and a camera package that captures every detail of this emotional journey.
Real Locations in LA & Pittsburgh
Costs $2,000
This story lives in two cities and we're filming in both to honor the soul of the film and its roots.
An Incredible Cast
Costs $2,000
We’re casting bold, magnetic, deeply human talent — many of whom are Asian American and underrepresented. Help us give them a spotlight!
Music by Ruston Kelly & John Wilcox
Costs $2,000
A collaboration between Nashville artists Ruston Kelly and John Wilcox, the stunning soundtrack will feel like the soul of the film.
Craft Services
Costs $1,000
Help us fuel our cast and crew! Your support keeps everyone energized with meals, snacks, and coffee to power long days on set.
Share this update!
About This Team
Michael Naizu – Writer | Director | Producer | Actor
Michael Naizu is an Asian American actor, writer, producer, and filmmaker. Co-founder of PinkHouse Productions, he wrote, produced, and starred in the original Bound For Glory short film, which sold to Asian American streaming platform JoySauce. He’s appeared in Amazon's Christmas is Canceled and can be seen in HBO’s Hacks. Michael also co-wrote, directed, and starred in the award-winning horror short Panacea, which took home Best Horror Film at the Burbank, Nashville, and Gasparilla Film Festivals. Bound For Glory is his most personal project to date.
John Wilcox – Director | Editor | Composer
John Wilcox is a Nashville-based multi-hyphenate artist and frequent collaborator with his brother, Michael Naizu. He wrote, directed, edited, and scored the original Bound For Glory short film during the COVID lockdown. A gifted storyteller and musician, John also co-created Panacea, bringing his signature emotional tone, cinematic eye, and original score to every frame. His work blends authenticity with artistry — whether through sound, story, or structure.
Derik Young – Producer
Derik Young co-starred in the Bound For Glory short and is a co-founder of PinkHouse Productions. A producer with real-world business experience, Derik also serves as Inside Sales Director at Vontive — one of North America's fastest growing fintech companies. Derik drives revenue growth and business development, leveraging a deep understanding of both creative and technological ecosystems. Passionate about storytelling and community, he helped fund the original short through grit, hustle, and sweat equity.
Nikki Nguyen – Producer | Casting Director
Nikki Nguyen is a casting director and creative producer with extensive experience across film and television. Her credits include NBC/Warner Bros.’ Found, ABC/20th Television’s Big Sky, Disney’s Dashing Through the Snow, Netflix/21 Laps’ All the Light We Cannot See, and numerous award-winning short films. She brings an exceptional eye for talent, a deep understanding of story, and a sharp sense of what resonates in today’s market — helping bridge bold creative vision with commercial execution.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Will Reeves is a talented but overlooked writer/actor scraping by in Los Angeles, juggling humiliating auditions, low-wage gigs, and a mounting existential crisis. His only anchor is Ballpark — a deeply personal script he’s poured his soul into about a complicated relationship between a father and son. Just as he considers leaving LA for good, a chance encounter with Ariella Graves — a movie star’s daughter with her own identity struggles — sets off a chain of events that might change everything.
When Ariella shares his script with her father and studio execs come calling, Will is offered a dream deal — but only if he gives up control and steps aside as it's star. Faced with the seduction of success versus staying true to his story, Will must confront what he’s really chasing: fame, validation, or something deeper. Aided by his passionate but flawed best friend Jayson, tough-love acting coach Bobby, and a mysterious Uber driver named Bo, Will embarks on a journey of radical acceptance — learning that the greatest success might be simply knowing who you are.
Director's Statement
Bound For Glory is a grounded, emotional, and at times funny story about a struggling Asian American actor in Los Angeles who finally gets his shot —only to realize it may not be all what it seems. It’s about chasing a dream that doesn’t always love you back, and what it means to keep going anyway.
Based on my own life and experiences in Hollywood, this film is a deeply personal reflection on identity, purpose, and self-worth. It’s also a story of quiet rebellion: of saying “no” when the world expects you to say "yes". A story for anyone who’s ever believed in a dream.
We first made Bound For Glory as a short film in 2020, during the peak of the pandemic. With zero budget, minimal gear, and a whole lot of heart, we created something raw and honest — and were lucky enough to license it to JoySauce, a streaming platform dedicated to AAPI stories. That little film reached people. This feature version goes even deeper. This is our chance to tell the whole story.
Why Me?
As an Asian American actor, I’ve lived this story. The rejection. The code-switching. The calls to make something “more relatable”, "more marketable" — when what they really meant was “less you.” Bound For Glory is the film I needed to see when I was starting out, and the one I still need now.
Why This Story?
Because not enough films explore the quiet pain of being overlooked with honesty, vulnerability, and dark humor. This isn’t just about one actor. It’s about artists, dreamers, and anyone who’s had to redefine what success looks like in a world that doesn’t see them.
Why Now?
Representation is improving but there’s still a lack of authentic, emotionally complex stories centered on Asian American characters. In the era of identity fatigue, mental health burnout, and content overload, Bound For Glory is a breath of fresh air. It’s intimate, real, and unafraid to be still. And it’s now or never — because these stories deserve the spotlight today, not five years from now.
Why Should You Join Us?
Because you believe in stories that matter. Because you know what it feels like to try, and try, and still be told “no.” Because you're tired of watching the same actors in the same kind of movies. Help us tell this story — for all of us still reaching for the light.
Next Steps
We’ve written the full feature screenplay, built an incredible team of AAPI and underrepresented creatives, and locked in key locations in both Los Angeles and Pittsburgh. We’re aiming to shoot in Fall 2025 and are now raising funds to cover our most essential needs: crew, equipment, locations, music, and cast.
This Seed&Spark campaign is the launchpad. With your help, we’ll raise $11,000 to secure production elements and build momentum as we approach full financing. If we surpass our goal (yes please!!), we'll be able to expand our post-production budget and boost our festival and distribution reach!
When Will You See It?
We plan to complete filming by end of 2025 with a premiere run at major film festivals (SXSW, Sundance, Tribeca, TIFF) and eventually release in theaters and/or on streaming platforms.
How You Can Help Right Now
- Pledge: Every dollar counts (seriously).
- Follow: It’s free and helps us gain visibility on Seed&Spark.
- Share: Use the text below to spread the word!
Share This Film (Copy/Paste!)
Please consider copying and pasting the following to your favorite social media platforms:
Help bring an Asian American indie film to life! Bound For Glory is a powerful story about identity, purpose, and chasing a dream that doesn’t always love you back. Support now on @SeedandSpark!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Crew That Bleeds for the Story
Costs $2,000
Great films are made by great crews, and every dollar helps us hire passionate, professional artists who believe in the vision.
Top-Notch Equipment
Costs $2,000
A cinematic look needs beautiful lenses, lighting that moves you, and a camera package that captures every detail of this emotional journey.
Real Locations in LA & Pittsburgh
Costs $2,000
This story lives in two cities and we're filming in both to honor the soul of the film and its roots.
An Incredible Cast
Costs $2,000
We’re casting bold, magnetic, deeply human talent — many of whom are Asian American and underrepresented. Help us give them a spotlight!
Music by Ruston Kelly & John Wilcox
Costs $2,000
A collaboration between Nashville artists Ruston Kelly and John Wilcox, the stunning soundtrack will feel like the soul of the film.
Craft Services
Costs $1,000
Help us fuel our cast and crew! Your support keeps everyone energized with meals, snacks, and coffee to power long days on set.
Share this update!
About This Team
Michael Naizu – Writer | Director | Producer | Actor
Michael Naizu is an Asian American actor, writer, producer, and filmmaker. Co-founder of PinkHouse Productions, he wrote, produced, and starred in the original Bound For Glory short film, which sold to Asian American streaming platform JoySauce. He’s appeared in Amazon's Christmas is Canceled and can be seen in HBO’s Hacks. Michael also co-wrote, directed, and starred in the award-winning horror short Panacea, which took home Best Horror Film at the Burbank, Nashville, and Gasparilla Film Festivals. Bound For Glory is his most personal project to date.
John Wilcox – Director | Editor | Composer
John Wilcox is a Nashville-based multi-hyphenate artist and frequent collaborator with his brother, Michael Naizu. He wrote, directed, edited, and scored the original Bound For Glory short film during the COVID lockdown. A gifted storyteller and musician, John also co-created Panacea, bringing his signature emotional tone, cinematic eye, and original score to every frame. His work blends authenticity with artistry — whether through sound, story, or structure.
Derik Young – Producer
Derik Young co-starred in the Bound For Glory short and is a co-founder of PinkHouse Productions. A producer with real-world business experience, Derik also serves as Inside Sales Director at Vontive — one of North America's fastest growing fintech companies. Derik drives revenue growth and business development, leveraging a deep understanding of both creative and technological ecosystems. Passionate about storytelling and community, he helped fund the original short through grit, hustle, and sweat equity.
Nikki Nguyen – Producer | Casting Director
Nikki Nguyen is a casting director and creative producer with extensive experience across film and television. Her credits include NBC/Warner Bros.’ Found, ABC/20th Television’s Big Sky, Disney’s Dashing Through the Snow, Netflix/21 Laps’ All the Light We Cannot See, and numerous award-winning short films. She brings an exceptional eye for talent, a deep understanding of story, and a sharp sense of what resonates in today’s market — helping bridge bold creative vision with commercial execution.