Sunhearts
Atlanta, Georgia | Film Short
Drama, Family
SUNHEARTS is not just a thesis film for writer-director, Promise Robinson, but her healing from the memories she can't go back to, her therapy. It is a true story of presence vs. absence, a coming of age story for anyone yearning the presence of a loved one, but can't find the voice to say it.
Sunhearts
Atlanta, Georgia | Film Short
Drama, Family
1 Campaigns | Georgia, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $9,775 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
46 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
SUNHEARTS is not just a thesis film for writer-director, Promise Robinson, but her healing from the memories she can't go back to, her therapy. It is a true story of presence vs. absence, a coming of age story for anyone yearning the presence of a loved one, but can't find the voice to say it.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
THE STORY
Sunhearts is a symphony of presence and resilience, renaissance of raw emotion, and all the more a slice of life film for "Da Director" Promise Robinson.
There’s a precious child with her superhero, her father, watching the clouds dance by. The sky is real. The sun is real. The MEMORY is absolutely real.
Eyes open wide, and it’s now a decade later.
That fearless little girl is now a quiet teen, living in disconnect with her single mother. SEVYN (15, Black), yearns for the presence of her father, but doesn’t know how to say it. However, she does find a way to write it.
One day in class, when given the chance to share her newfound superpower, Sevyn fills with angst, deflecting her writing, putting on a facade in front of everyone. This lands her a talk with her teacher and a detour she can’t steer away from.
With a melting pot brewing at home, Sevyn unexpectedly finds her voice in an after school program for girls just like her.The Sunhearts Club, a program for fatherless daughters.
DIRECTOR'S STATEMENT
When you see me, you see my community. You see a Jersey girl born and raised, and no matter how far she went she’d always bring home everywhere
she goes. When you see me, you see a fearless kid, who grew into a woman of resilience. A woman with a God given village that inspired her to chase her dreams. And when you see my work, I can proudly say I am doing just that.
I am Promise Niccole Ruffin-Robinson, writer-director, and ultra creative. Being creative is the foundation and driving force to my passion, and has allotted me opportunities that have surpassed my imagination. From achieving a Bachelors of Science from the illustrious Hampton University, to pursuing a masters in film, each achievement is a constant reminder of how far I’ve come.
This journey began early for me, and the love I have for the arts is deeply rooted. I started out playing instruments in elementary, a seed planted so young that grew into a tree of foundation up and through college. My excitement for music made a shift, and It wasn’t just about playing the music anymore, it was about creating it.
Writing became home. This kind of writing was unlike any essay I’ve ever done, and so different from any story I’ve ever read. I had a new profound joy of songwriting, and the stories written allowed me to live on the page until I got the courage to live out loud. Writing took me to a place my vision couldn’t, and it still does. Writing provided me with my own space, my own world, and a growing passion that would change the course of my life forever. From storytelling, to songwriting, to scriptwriting. Every step was a level up and every destination was purposeful.
It’s simple, The stories I wish to tell are ones that’ll make the audience feel. With every human heart beat, it is a heart of a story, and I want to tell real people stories. Stories that are inclusive but outside the box. Stories that are cultivating and elevating the standard of filmmaking as we know it. Ultimately, stories that’ll show the strength of any village. Stories that’ll make that kid with so little proud.
Sunhearts is all of that, and more.
THE CHARACTERS
SEVYN (15):
- She is the sun, the heart of this story. Sevyn is a teenager with the weight of the world on her shoulders. She tries her best to blend into the background, but her silence sings out loud.
- Sevyn is the only child of Bleu and Rita, her warriors of misfortune. With her father incarcerated, and her mother overworked, Sevyn walks an reluctant path to discover what gives her strength...Writing.
HER COMMUNITY:
BLEU
- Sevyn’s Father, Her Superhero
- "Behind every dark cloud is a sun still shining. That’s what you are, be the sun Sev.”
RITA
- Sevyn’s Mother, Her Protector
- “Sevyn I work twenty four seven to keep you in that good school. Now’s not the time to act like you hate the world.”
MRS. P
- Teacher, Her Guidance
- “ Most of you made up a fictional story, which was good, but this person in particular put their life on the page, and may have just found her superpower.”
MS. ERIKA
- Mentor, Her Reminder to be Present
- “I’m not a teacher, instructor, whatever you wanna call it. I’m a daughter, just like you all.”
MILANI
- Best friend, Her Ride or Die
- “Look Sevyn, I know you got a lot of things on your mind, but do me a favor. Don’t let that s*** eat you up.”
THE INSPIRATION
Sunhearts will be homage to the home that raised Promise best, New Jersey. With the unmatched style of the North, in the early 2000s to earthy-tones of brick buildings, we don’t just want the world to feel real, we want it to be real. Though we are shooting in the Metro-Atlanta area we are confident that we will find all the pieces to our puzzle of inspiration!
The choice of warm tones are intentional to our story. It’s a reminder to be present, and with yellow resembling the sun, trying to surround Sevyn with this color is crucial to the vision.
THE SHOOTING STYLE
- Sony Burano or Arri Alexa Mini as Camera Options
- Cooke lenses as Top Lens Choice
- Home Footage Meets the Work of James Laxton
- Warm Tones for Lighting to Embrace the Sun Visually Represent Presence vs. Absence
Where the Money Resides, Where the Money Residessss - The Budget Breakdown
While the percentages are in the budget breakdown, We can assure you that 100% of your donations will go towards funding our film.
One of the biggest mistakes a student can make is treating their thesis as just another assignment, and for us Sunhearts is beyond that. Yes the production value comes with money, but for us the production value is also in the flourishing of the people who are deeply rooted into this production.
We want to put the funding into paying the entire cast and crew. We have a plethora of volunteers in every department and we want to be able to make an investment in their futures, as they are making a major contribution and investment into ours.
In addition to that we would also like to put the extra funding into locations and rentals. Again with the blessing of being greenlit, we would be in a beautiful position to secure locations and rental kits.
Lastly, with most of the initial budget going towards pre-production & actual production, we understand that post production is just as important. So with additional funding we would love to be able to provide a wider range of support to the editor, audio engineer, composer, musicians, marketing team, and of course film festival submissions.
We are committed to bringing to life this powerful story, and we would love nothing more than for you to join The Sunhearts Club and help us get there!
Total Stretch Budget: $16,500 Raising at Least $11,500 Through Crowdfunding
Priority: Cast & Crew, Day Rates, Travel Stipends, Housing, if needed Family looks out for Family
Second in Demand: Camera, G&E & Sound.
- Camera & Sound Kits
- Grip Equipment, Lighting Kits.
- We want the film to look and sound good.
Important: Crafty, Wardrobe, Locations. On site locations,
- Good food for Good People,
- Costumer & H&MU Props &. Set Dec.
- Committed to treating this film as professional as possible.
The Aftermath: Editing, Film Fest Submissions Etc.
- Applying for Festivals
- Private Screenings & Events
- Promotional Run
- Dreaming no small dream, hoping to be able to expand in more ways we could imagine
Get Connected, We love Sunhearts Sundaysssss!
Being on social media is cool... but did you know we have a podcast? The Sunhearts Club Podcast Episode 1-8 are OUT NOW for your listening and visual enjoy on all podcast services and YouTube! This podcast is dedicated to giving exclusively deep dives into the film and the life around it, while also just opening up about just how crazy life can get. Hosted by Director, Promise Robinson and the incomparable Allyn-Rae Daniels.
Thank you for any donation big or small, in The Sunhearts Club we love it all! Before we let you go we want to leave you with a ray of sunshine, not only is it word of affirmation but it is one of Promise's favorite lines within the script.
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Paying Our Community (Cast + Crew)
Costs $3,500
There is no film without our cast & crew. We are creating a family with SUNHEARTS, and in this family we look out for each other.
Locations That Fit Our World!
Costs $2,000
Sunhearts is dedicated to the home that raised Promise best, NEW JERSEY. With the unique style of the north, we need locations to call home.
The Look & Sound ( Camera, G&E & Sound Equipment)
Costs $2,500
Having the right equipment, not only makes the film look and sound good, but nurtures the story. Our community deserves the resources.
Good People Deserve Good Food
Costs $1,000
The film won't be the only good thing on set. We need good food for good people, hard work deserves a good meal and time well spent.
Look Good, Feel Good ( Wardrobe, Set Design, Hair & Makeup)
Costs $1,500
Wardrobe, set design, hair & makeup elevate the world we are in. We need the resources so that every department's light can shine.
Life After (Post-Production)
Costs $1,000
Post production is where Sunhearts gets its heartbeat. We need support in editing, music & getting this film on the big screen.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Welcome to the Sunhearts Club!
Promise Robinson, Writer-Director
Promise Robinson is a writer-director, and ultra creative. Being a creative is the foundation and driving force to her passion, and has allotted her opportunities that have surpassed her imagination. From achieving a Bachelors of Science in Music Recording Technology from the illustrious Hampton University, to currently pursuing a masters in film at the University of Georgia.
As of today, Promise Robinson is working on her thesis film, Sunhearts, a slice of life film, that is homage to her adolescence and honoring the power of presence. Prior to that her most recent film “...Young, Black & Gifted” allowed Promise to receive her first awards as a filmmaker, bringing home “Best Family and Faith” Film and 1st Place Overall at the HBCU First Look Film Festival. Having experience working in film and music, each project is bigger and more passionate than the last.
It’s simple, the stories Promise wishes to tell are ones that’ll make the audience feel again. With every human heart beat, it is a heart of a story, and Promise wants to tell real people stories. Stories that are inclusive but outside the box. Stories that are cultivating and elevating the standard of filmmaking as we know it. Ultimately, stories that will show the strength of any village. Stories that’ll make that kid with so little, so proud.
Kyle Snipes, Co-Producer
Kyle Snipes is a dedicated and multifaceted professional working in the film industry, where he has earned a reputation for his strong work ethic and passion for storytelling. Currently serving as a union Assistant Location Manager, Kyle is known for his exceptional organizational skills and his ability to manage the logistics of film productions with precision and efficiency. His work behind the scenes helps ensure that film sets run smoothly, while maintaining the creative integrity of each project. With a deep understanding of both the technical and creative aspects of filmmaking, Kyle plays an essential role in making film productions a reality, helping to create immersive and authentic environments that bring the director’s vision to life.
In addition to his work as a location manager, Kyle is also a producer for the highly anticipated upcoming film, Sunhearts, where he brings his creative vision and leadership skills to the forefront. His involvement in the project reflects his commitment to producing meaningful, thought-provoking art that resonates with audiences. Kyle is particularly inspired by stories that tackle themes of personal growth, resilience, and empowerment—narratives that have the power to engage young audiences and teach valuable life lessons. Sunhearts is a project close to his heart, as it aligns with his belief in the importance of storytelling that not only entertains but also educates and empowers the next generation.
Brooke Fields, Co-Producer
Brooke Fields is a writer, director, and producer from St. Louis, Missouri, now based in Atlanta, Georgia. Driven by a passion for authentic storytelling, Brooke focuses on creating and amplifying narratives that celebrate the richness of the Black experience. Beyond her own projects, Brooke is committed to helping other filmmakers bring their stories to life, ensuring that diverse voices have the opportunity to be told with care and creativity.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
THE STORY
Sunhearts is a symphony of presence and resilience, renaissance of raw emotion, and all the more a slice of life film for "Da Director" Promise Robinson.
There’s a precious child with her superhero, her father, watching the clouds dance by. The sky is real. The sun is real. The MEMORY is absolutely real.
Eyes open wide, and it’s now a decade later.
That fearless little girl is now a quiet teen, living in disconnect with her single mother. SEVYN (15, Black), yearns for the presence of her father, but doesn’t know how to say it. However, she does find a way to write it.
One day in class, when given the chance to share her newfound superpower, Sevyn fills with angst, deflecting her writing, putting on a facade in front of everyone. This lands her a talk with her teacher and a detour she can’t steer away from.
With a melting pot brewing at home, Sevyn unexpectedly finds her voice in an after school program for girls just like her.The Sunhearts Club, a program for fatherless daughters.
DIRECTOR'S STATEMENT
When you see me, you see my community. You see a Jersey girl born and raised, and no matter how far she went she’d always bring home everywhere
she goes. When you see me, you see a fearless kid, who grew into a woman of resilience. A woman with a God given village that inspired her to chase her dreams. And when you see my work, I can proudly say I am doing just that.
I am Promise Niccole Ruffin-Robinson, writer-director, and ultra creative. Being creative is the foundation and driving force to my passion, and has allotted me opportunities that have surpassed my imagination. From achieving a Bachelors of Science from the illustrious Hampton University, to pursuing a masters in film, each achievement is a constant reminder of how far I’ve come.
This journey began early for me, and the love I have for the arts is deeply rooted. I started out playing instruments in elementary, a seed planted so young that grew into a tree of foundation up and through college. My excitement for music made a shift, and It wasn’t just about playing the music anymore, it was about creating it.
Writing became home. This kind of writing was unlike any essay I’ve ever done, and so different from any story I’ve ever read. I had a new profound joy of songwriting, and the stories written allowed me to live on the page until I got the courage to live out loud. Writing took me to a place my vision couldn’t, and it still does. Writing provided me with my own space, my own world, and a growing passion that would change the course of my life forever. From storytelling, to songwriting, to scriptwriting. Every step was a level up and every destination was purposeful.
It’s simple, The stories I wish to tell are ones that’ll make the audience feel. With every human heart beat, it is a heart of a story, and I want to tell real people stories. Stories that are inclusive but outside the box. Stories that are cultivating and elevating the standard of filmmaking as we know it. Ultimately, stories that’ll show the strength of any village. Stories that’ll make that kid with so little proud.
Sunhearts is all of that, and more.
THE CHARACTERS
SEVYN (15):
- She is the sun, the heart of this story. Sevyn is a teenager with the weight of the world on her shoulders. She tries her best to blend into the background, but her silence sings out loud.
- Sevyn is the only child of Bleu and Rita, her warriors of misfortune. With her father incarcerated, and her mother overworked, Sevyn walks an reluctant path to discover what gives her strength...Writing.
HER COMMUNITY:
BLEU
- Sevyn’s Father, Her Superhero
- "Behind every dark cloud is a sun still shining. That’s what you are, be the sun Sev.”
RITA
- Sevyn’s Mother, Her Protector
- “Sevyn I work twenty four seven to keep you in that good school. Now’s not the time to act like you hate the world.”
MRS. P
- Teacher, Her Guidance
- “ Most of you made up a fictional story, which was good, but this person in particular put their life on the page, and may have just found her superpower.”
MS. ERIKA
- Mentor, Her Reminder to be Present
- “I’m not a teacher, instructor, whatever you wanna call it. I’m a daughter, just like you all.”
MILANI
- Best friend, Her Ride or Die
- “Look Sevyn, I know you got a lot of things on your mind, but do me a favor. Don’t let that s*** eat you up.”
THE INSPIRATION
Sunhearts will be homage to the home that raised Promise best, New Jersey. With the unmatched style of the North, in the early 2000s to earthy-tones of brick buildings, we don’t just want the world to feel real, we want it to be real. Though we are shooting in the Metro-Atlanta area we are confident that we will find all the pieces to our puzzle of inspiration!
The choice of warm tones are intentional to our story. It’s a reminder to be present, and with yellow resembling the sun, trying to surround Sevyn with this color is crucial to the vision.
THE SHOOTING STYLE
- Sony Burano or Arri Alexa Mini as Camera Options
- Cooke lenses as Top Lens Choice
- Home Footage Meets the Work of James Laxton
- Warm Tones for Lighting to Embrace the Sun Visually Represent Presence vs. Absence
Where the Money Resides, Where the Money Residessss - The Budget Breakdown
While the percentages are in the budget breakdown, We can assure you that 100% of your donations will go towards funding our film.
One of the biggest mistakes a student can make is treating their thesis as just another assignment, and for us Sunhearts is beyond that. Yes the production value comes with money, but for us the production value is also in the flourishing of the people who are deeply rooted into this production.
We want to put the funding into paying the entire cast and crew. We have a plethora of volunteers in every department and we want to be able to make an investment in their futures, as they are making a major contribution and investment into ours.
In addition to that we would also like to put the extra funding into locations and rentals. Again with the blessing of being greenlit, we would be in a beautiful position to secure locations and rental kits.
Lastly, with most of the initial budget going towards pre-production & actual production, we understand that post production is just as important. So with additional funding we would love to be able to provide a wider range of support to the editor, audio engineer, composer, musicians, marketing team, and of course film festival submissions.
We are committed to bringing to life this powerful story, and we would love nothing more than for you to join The Sunhearts Club and help us get there!
Total Stretch Budget: $16,500 Raising at Least $11,500 Through Crowdfunding
Priority: Cast & Crew, Day Rates, Travel Stipends, Housing, if needed Family looks out for Family
Second in Demand: Camera, G&E & Sound.
- Camera & Sound Kits
- Grip Equipment, Lighting Kits.
- We want the film to look and sound good.
Important: Crafty, Wardrobe, Locations. On site locations,
- Good food for Good People,
- Costumer & H&MU Props &. Set Dec.
- Committed to treating this film as professional as possible.
The Aftermath: Editing, Film Fest Submissions Etc.
- Applying for Festivals
- Private Screenings & Events
- Promotional Run
- Dreaming no small dream, hoping to be able to expand in more ways we could imagine
Get Connected, We love Sunhearts Sundaysssss!
Being on social media is cool... but did you know we have a podcast? The Sunhearts Club Podcast Episode 1-8 are OUT NOW for your listening and visual enjoy on all podcast services and YouTube! This podcast is dedicated to giving exclusively deep dives into the film and the life around it, while also just opening up about just how crazy life can get. Hosted by Director, Promise Robinson and the incomparable Allyn-Rae Daniels.
Thank you for any donation big or small, in The Sunhearts Club we love it all! Before we let you go we want to leave you with a ray of sunshine, not only is it word of affirmation but it is one of Promise's favorite lines within the script.
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Paying Our Community (Cast + Crew)
Costs $3,500
There is no film without our cast & crew. We are creating a family with SUNHEARTS, and in this family we look out for each other.
Locations That Fit Our World!
Costs $2,000
Sunhearts is dedicated to the home that raised Promise best, NEW JERSEY. With the unique style of the north, we need locations to call home.
The Look & Sound ( Camera, G&E & Sound Equipment)
Costs $2,500
Having the right equipment, not only makes the film look and sound good, but nurtures the story. Our community deserves the resources.
Good People Deserve Good Food
Costs $1,000
The film won't be the only good thing on set. We need good food for good people, hard work deserves a good meal and time well spent.
Look Good, Feel Good ( Wardrobe, Set Design, Hair & Makeup)
Costs $1,500
Wardrobe, set design, hair & makeup elevate the world we are in. We need the resources so that every department's light can shine.
Life After (Post-Production)
Costs $1,000
Post production is where Sunhearts gets its heartbeat. We need support in editing, music & getting this film on the big screen.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Welcome to the Sunhearts Club!
Promise Robinson, Writer-Director
Promise Robinson is a writer-director, and ultra creative. Being a creative is the foundation and driving force to her passion, and has allotted her opportunities that have surpassed her imagination. From achieving a Bachelors of Science in Music Recording Technology from the illustrious Hampton University, to currently pursuing a masters in film at the University of Georgia.
As of today, Promise Robinson is working on her thesis film, Sunhearts, a slice of life film, that is homage to her adolescence and honoring the power of presence. Prior to that her most recent film “...Young, Black & Gifted” allowed Promise to receive her first awards as a filmmaker, bringing home “Best Family and Faith” Film and 1st Place Overall at the HBCU First Look Film Festival. Having experience working in film and music, each project is bigger and more passionate than the last.
It’s simple, the stories Promise wishes to tell are ones that’ll make the audience feel again. With every human heart beat, it is a heart of a story, and Promise wants to tell real people stories. Stories that are inclusive but outside the box. Stories that are cultivating and elevating the standard of filmmaking as we know it. Ultimately, stories that will show the strength of any village. Stories that’ll make that kid with so little, so proud.
Kyle Snipes, Co-Producer
Kyle Snipes is a dedicated and multifaceted professional working in the film industry, where he has earned a reputation for his strong work ethic and passion for storytelling. Currently serving as a union Assistant Location Manager, Kyle is known for his exceptional organizational skills and his ability to manage the logistics of film productions with precision and efficiency. His work behind the scenes helps ensure that film sets run smoothly, while maintaining the creative integrity of each project. With a deep understanding of both the technical and creative aspects of filmmaking, Kyle plays an essential role in making film productions a reality, helping to create immersive and authentic environments that bring the director’s vision to life.
In addition to his work as a location manager, Kyle is also a producer for the highly anticipated upcoming film, Sunhearts, where he brings his creative vision and leadership skills to the forefront. His involvement in the project reflects his commitment to producing meaningful, thought-provoking art that resonates with audiences. Kyle is particularly inspired by stories that tackle themes of personal growth, resilience, and empowerment—narratives that have the power to engage young audiences and teach valuable life lessons. Sunhearts is a project close to his heart, as it aligns with his belief in the importance of storytelling that not only entertains but also educates and empowers the next generation.
Brooke Fields, Co-Producer
Brooke Fields is a writer, director, and producer from St. Louis, Missouri, now based in Atlanta, Georgia. Driven by a passion for authentic storytelling, Brooke focuses on creating and amplifying narratives that celebrate the richness of the Black experience. Beyond her own projects, Brooke is committed to helping other filmmakers bring their stories to life, ensuring that diverse voices have the opportunity to be told with care and creativity.