Take Note
Atlanta, Georgia | Film Short
Drama, LGBTQ
Take Note is a heartwarming film that follows a teacher, Ms. Amado, who catches a glimpse of a budding romance between two of her students. She discovers that they're afraid to come out. Ms. Amado confronts her own fears and comes out to her class in hopes of inspiring them to be who they are.
Take Note
Atlanta, Georgia | Film Short
Drama, LGBTQ
1 Campaigns | Georgia, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $16,855 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
117 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
Take Note is a heartwarming film that follows a teacher, Ms. Amado, who catches a glimpse of a budding romance between two of her students. She discovers that they're afraid to come out. Ms. Amado confronts her own fears and comes out to her class in hopes of inspiring them to be who they are.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Take Note is a heartwarming story about a middle school science teacher, Ms. Amado, who finds herself caught in a delicate situation. Each morning, Miss Amado is met by one of her students, Lexi (13), prior to class beginning. Like clockwork, Lexi leaves a note on Bell’s desk. As class proceeds, Bell (13), now flushed and distracted, can't focus on the lesson plan. A brief confrontation reveals the true reason behind Lexi's flirting through a physical note. Texting is out of the question, both girls are afraid of what will happen if Bell’s parents find out about their mutual “crushes”, and they monitor all messages on her phone. After learning this, Ms. Amado is forced to confront conservative prejudices within the school system by coming out to her entire class. Ms. Amado hopes to set positive examples for her students and create a safe and inclusive environment for all.
Take Note tackles a couple of key themes throughout its story:
- Acceptance and Self-Acceptance: Lexi and Bell's struggle with their feelings for each other reflects the larger struggle of accepting oneself in the face of societal expectations and prejudices. The story shows the importance of self-acceptance and acceptance of others for personal growth and happiness.
- Empowerment: Ms. Amado's decision to come out and display her engagement photo empowers her students to be themselves and feel proud of their identities. The story highlights the power of representation in empowering marginalized communities.
Take Note is a love letter to educators and LGBTQ+ students across the U.S. The filmmakers behind the project hope that our work inspires you to continue to embrace who you are inside and outside of the classroom.
"Co-CreatED is proud to team up with the Take Note team to help bring this film to life! Two of our core values at Co-CreatED are equity and humanity. We work to make the school experience more equitable for all students. And we believe that the teaching and learning process is at its core a shared human experience. This film conveys both those values beautifully. Students of all identities are worthy of feeling seen and known, and films like this one help make that happen. Visibility matters! Can't wait to see the film come together."
Jen Owen, Ed.S.
Founder, Co-CreatED
learningcocreated.com
Take Note is inspired by the likes of Pixar Shorts, Heart-stopper, and The Perks of Being a Wallflower.
The film begins with dull tones, pulling the audience into the soul-sucking feelings within Ms. Amado. The dullness highlights feelings of being othered and the long-term effects of hiding who you are.
When we enter Miss Amado's classroom we're met with warmer tones and brighter lighting throughout the scenes. Lexi and Bell embody the innocence of first love. We all know what it's like to get butterflies over a crush, sitting in class thinking of them instead of your teacher's lecture. It's a precious innocence that everyone should have a right to experience. We hope to display this visually by creating a sharp contrast between Bell and Lexi's scenes and the harsh reality of their environment.
Take Note is more than just a film – it's part of a nationwide movement for acceptance, courage, and love. Join us in bringing this inspiring story to life and breaking down barriers of prejudice and discrimination. Together, we can challenge outdated beliefs and celebrate the power of individual expression and love. With your support, we'll create a cinematic experience that will stay with you long after the credits roll. Contribute today and be a part of a movement that's changing hearts and minds.
1.8 million;
The Trevor Project estimates that more than 1.8 million LGBTQ youth (13-24) seriously consider suicide each year in the U.S. — and at least one attempts suicide every 45 seconds.
400+
Bills Restricting LGBTQ Rights Introduced Nationwide in 2023 So Far. (SOURCE. ACLU)
The need for positive LGBTQ+ representation continues to grow as the government works quickly to create legislation that limits and harms us. Take Note is a timely story that explores the struggles of LGBTQ+ youth and the importance of inclusive education. Take Note is a powerful reminder of the impact teachers can have on their students. The story celebrates the courage it takes to stand up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.
In light of recent events, it's more important than ever to celebrate diversity and promote inclusivity. Take Note is brought to life by a talented and diverse team of filmmakers and storytellers.
Director, Ciera Thompson, is a rising voice in the fight for intersectional equality and brings a unique perspective to the world of screenwriting. Her commitment to radical honesty and authentic storytelling sets her apart from the rest. Ciera has a track record of success and dedication, from leading a local North Carolina TV station to national recognition as the Best College Station in the Nation in 2020, to mentoring young filmmakers through Girls Rock Film Camp.
Cinematographer, Alexander Glustrom, is a seasoned professional who has directed, shot, produced, and edited a wide variety of film projects ranging from commercials to documentaries. He has worked with major brands such as Google, HBO, CNN, and VH1, and his films have been featured in festivals internationally and broadcast nationally. Alex has a deep understanding of perspective, story structure, and emotional rhythm and is able to effectively delegate and lead a team.
Evil Twin Digital has equipped Take Note with Daniel Isabella, Senior Producer. Daniel is a seasoned writer and producer, with a strong understanding of character development and storytelling. He is skilled at collaborating with writers, directors, and actors to bring scripts to life and capture the essence of a story on screen. As a result, he has played a pivotal role in the success of several film projects.
Their shared commitment to creativity, collaboration, and excellence has already proven successful in past projects, and they are excited to bring their talents to Take Note. Check out Alex's reel here! Learn more about Evil Twin Digital here.
Take Note is currently in pre-production, and your support will help us move the project forward. The funds raised through this campaign will be used to cover production costs such as equipment, crew, locations, and post-production expenses.
Once completed, the film will be submitted to various film festivals and distributed through online platforms, allowing a wider audience to view the film and engage in important conversations about inclusivity and acceptance. We also have stretch goals in place if the project surpasses 100% funded. These goals include additional marketing and promotional efforts, the opportunity to submit the film to larger and more prestigious festivals.
In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we have developed a comprehensive safety plan to ensure the well-being of our cast and crew. We will be following all local and national guidelines and protocols to create a safe working environment.
We are crowdfunding now because we believe in the power of this story. With your support, we can bring this important story to life and make a difference in the lives of LGBTQ+ youth and their allies.
Please Follow & Share!
Contribute what you can and help us bring Take Note to life by sharing our campaign on social media! Here are some pre-written, copy/pasteable messages to make it easy for you:
- I just contributed to Take Note on Seed&Spark! This film aims to promote inclusivity and acceptance, and it needs your support! https://www.seedandspark.com/fund/take-note
- Join me in supporting Take Note, a powerful story about LGBTQ+ youth and the importance of inclusive education. https://www.seedandspark.com/fund/take-note
THANK YOU!!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
School
Costs $3,000
The perfect school for our story. 3K allows us to secure a location.
Lighting and Camera packages
Costs $3,050
The right gear allows us to create a stunning, high-quality film that will resonate with audiences.
Talent
Costs $1,775
We're looking to bring the best talent on board to make this film truly outstanding.
Crafty
Costs $580
We'll have hungry middle schoolers on set. Help us keep our cast and crew well-fed and happy!
Props
Costs $300
Back-to-school shopping came early! We need school supplies for props (plan to donate after)
Post Production
Costs $1,210
We need a super-star editor to bring our film together. This budget also includes cc and scoring.
Festival Fees
Costs $1,250
Take Note is running the festival circuit but those entry fees really pile up.
Crew
Costs $4,600
We'd love to bring on a crew from varied backgrounds and expertise to make this project exceptional.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Ciera Thompson’s journey from silence to power as a Black LGBTQ writer has made her a rising voice in the fight for intersectional equality.
Ciera is a Durham North Carolina native. In 2020 she was awarded 2nd place for Best Original Pilot by the Broadcasting Educators Association. She’s produced multiple Golden Telly Award-winning projects and directed It All Media’s marketing content at Sundance 2023. You can watch her golden-telly winning documentary here.
Ciera has a track record of success and dedication, from leading a local North Carolina TV station to national recognition as the Best College Station in the Nation in 2020, to mentoring young filmmakers through Girls Rock Film Camp. Ciera is currently living in Atlanta, GA continuing to write and produce original LGBTQ+ stories. This year, Ciera was inspired by activists and change-makers letting their voices shine. As a writer in the entertainment industry, the best way to get your work out there is to bring it to life yourself. Ciera is ecstatic to make Take Note her official directorial debut.
DIRECTORS NOTE;
"I am excited to share with you my vision for Take Note, a film that is close to my heart. As both the writer and director.
My directing style is collaborative, and I believe in creating an environment that fosters creativity and open communication. I have experience leading productions, managing budgets, and overseeing the casting and crew selection process. As a producer for the past two years, I have honed my skills in physical production and understand the importance of efficient scheduling, managing resources, and meeting deadlines.
I am thrilled to be working alongside a talented and dedicated team to bring Take Note to life. We have a shared commitment to telling stories that matter and bringing diverse perspectives to the screen. I'm filled with gratitude as partners like The Diversity Movement and Co-CreatED have chosen to partner with us and believe in our ability to make this film.
In Take Note, the setting is not just a backdrop, it's a character. We've carefully crafted a world that pulls you in and never lets go. As a filmmaker, I'm obsessed with creating a complete sensory experience for the viewer - one that takes you on a journey that lingers long after the credits roll. With Take Note, I want to explore the complexities of human relationships and the power that being your true self has over others. This film is a labor of love, and I'm excited to bring my unique perspective as a Black LGBTQ writer and director to this project. It's an opportunity to create something truly special - a film that not only entertains but inspires and challenges us to think about our own lives in a different way. So come along for the ride - I promise it'll be a journey you won't forget."
-- Ciera Thompson
Meet the rest of the team!
We're excited to have Alexander Glustrom as our Director of Photography. Alex's expertise in cinematography will be instrumental in creating a beautiful film that captures the heart and soul of our story. His understanding of visual storytelling, composition, and lighting will ensure that every frame of Take Note is stunning and impactful. Alex has a deep understanding of storytelling and emotional rhythm that will help bring our characters and their journeys to life on screen.
Alex's Reel 2023.
"I am proud to help tell stories that move audiences and matter to people. Inspired by creative expression and human connection, I am lucky that my work introduces me to new people and new places. Always learning, always exploring, and always working to be better than I was yesterday."-ag
We want to create a film that represents our diverse and inclusive world, and that's why we've brought together a team of talented individuals who share our values. Our director, senior producer, and lead actress, Ciera, Daniel, and Aliyah, are all members of the LGBTQ+ community and believe that diverse voices and perspectives are essential to creating powerful and impactful stories.
Aliyah Vasquez (IMDB) is Ms. Amado in Take Note. In choosing our, Ms. Amado, Ciera looked for someone who can balance gentle emotion with internal conflict. Aliyah's ability to let the audience into her personal psyche is what makes her the perfect actor to bring Ms. Amado to life.
Vasquez was originally born and raised in Hialeah, Florida where she danced competitively for many years before pursuing Higher Education. She received her B.S. in Psychology and Family Studies and then earned her M.Ed. in Higher and Postsecondary Education from Arizona State University. Prior to pursuing acting full time, she used to work in Recruitment and Admissions supporting first-generation and non-traditional college students in their application journeys.
As a queer Latina, Vasquez cares deeply about representation and telling stories that lift the communities that she identifies with and celebrates proudly. Outside of work, she enjoys dancing, staying active, the outdoors and finding new places to eat!
Daniel James Isabella is the Senior Producer for Take Note. From his work at Evil Twin Digital, he has found ways to bring new stories to the screen with the limited resources often available in the independent scene. Daniel is proud to be a part of Take Note and feels it is exactly the kind of movie we need to be making right now.
"From the time I first encountered the project I was hooked," Daniel said, "as a former educator who juggled with the freedom to be honest with students about my identity, it resonated with me on an exceptionally deep level".
Daniel is from Farmington Hills Michigan and is a graduate of Michigan State University with a Degree in Media and Information. In his spare time, Daniel is active in the theatre community, a huge fan of amusement park history, and occasionally sings in a cover band.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Take Note is a heartwarming story about a middle school science teacher, Ms. Amado, who finds herself caught in a delicate situation. Each morning, Miss Amado is met by one of her students, Lexi (13), prior to class beginning. Like clockwork, Lexi leaves a note on Bell’s desk. As class proceeds, Bell (13), now flushed and distracted, can't focus on the lesson plan. A brief confrontation reveals the true reason behind Lexi's flirting through a physical note. Texting is out of the question, both girls are afraid of what will happen if Bell’s parents find out about their mutual “crushes”, and they monitor all messages on her phone. After learning this, Ms. Amado is forced to confront conservative prejudices within the school system by coming out to her entire class. Ms. Amado hopes to set positive examples for her students and create a safe and inclusive environment for all.
Take Note tackles a couple of key themes throughout its story:
- Acceptance and Self-Acceptance: Lexi and Bell's struggle with their feelings for each other reflects the larger struggle of accepting oneself in the face of societal expectations and prejudices. The story shows the importance of self-acceptance and acceptance of others for personal growth and happiness.
- Empowerment: Ms. Amado's decision to come out and display her engagement photo empowers her students to be themselves and feel proud of their identities. The story highlights the power of representation in empowering marginalized communities.
Take Note is a love letter to educators and LGBTQ+ students across the U.S. The filmmakers behind the project hope that our work inspires you to continue to embrace who you are inside and outside of the classroom.
"Co-CreatED is proud to team up with the Take Note team to help bring this film to life! Two of our core values at Co-CreatED are equity and humanity. We work to make the school experience more equitable for all students. And we believe that the teaching and learning process is at its core a shared human experience. This film conveys both those values beautifully. Students of all identities are worthy of feeling seen and known, and films like this one help make that happen. Visibility matters! Can't wait to see the film come together."
Jen Owen, Ed.S.
Founder, Co-CreatED
learningcocreated.com
Take Note is inspired by the likes of Pixar Shorts, Heart-stopper, and The Perks of Being a Wallflower.
The film begins with dull tones, pulling the audience into the soul-sucking feelings within Ms. Amado. The dullness highlights feelings of being othered and the long-term effects of hiding who you are.
When we enter Miss Amado's classroom we're met with warmer tones and brighter lighting throughout the scenes. Lexi and Bell embody the innocence of first love. We all know what it's like to get butterflies over a crush, sitting in class thinking of them instead of your teacher's lecture. It's a precious innocence that everyone should have a right to experience. We hope to display this visually by creating a sharp contrast between Bell and Lexi's scenes and the harsh reality of their environment.
Take Note is more than just a film – it's part of a nationwide movement for acceptance, courage, and love. Join us in bringing this inspiring story to life and breaking down barriers of prejudice and discrimination. Together, we can challenge outdated beliefs and celebrate the power of individual expression and love. With your support, we'll create a cinematic experience that will stay with you long after the credits roll. Contribute today and be a part of a movement that's changing hearts and minds.
1.8 million;
The Trevor Project estimates that more than 1.8 million LGBTQ youth (13-24) seriously consider suicide each year in the U.S. — and at least one attempts suicide every 45 seconds.
400+
Bills Restricting LGBTQ Rights Introduced Nationwide in 2023 So Far. (SOURCE. ACLU)
The need for positive LGBTQ+ representation continues to grow as the government works quickly to create legislation that limits and harms us. Take Note is a timely story that explores the struggles of LGBTQ+ youth and the importance of inclusive education. Take Note is a powerful reminder of the impact teachers can have on their students. The story celebrates the courage it takes to stand up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.
In light of recent events, it's more important than ever to celebrate diversity and promote inclusivity. Take Note is brought to life by a talented and diverse team of filmmakers and storytellers.
Director, Ciera Thompson, is a rising voice in the fight for intersectional equality and brings a unique perspective to the world of screenwriting. Her commitment to radical honesty and authentic storytelling sets her apart from the rest. Ciera has a track record of success and dedication, from leading a local North Carolina TV station to national recognition as the Best College Station in the Nation in 2020, to mentoring young filmmakers through Girls Rock Film Camp.
Cinematographer, Alexander Glustrom, is a seasoned professional who has directed, shot, produced, and edited a wide variety of film projects ranging from commercials to documentaries. He has worked with major brands such as Google, HBO, CNN, and VH1, and his films have been featured in festivals internationally and broadcast nationally. Alex has a deep understanding of perspective, story structure, and emotional rhythm and is able to effectively delegate and lead a team.
Evil Twin Digital has equipped Take Note with Daniel Isabella, Senior Producer. Daniel is a seasoned writer and producer, with a strong understanding of character development and storytelling. He is skilled at collaborating with writers, directors, and actors to bring scripts to life and capture the essence of a story on screen. As a result, he has played a pivotal role in the success of several film projects.
Their shared commitment to creativity, collaboration, and excellence has already proven successful in past projects, and they are excited to bring their talents to Take Note. Check out Alex's reel here! Learn more about Evil Twin Digital here.
Take Note is currently in pre-production, and your support will help us move the project forward. The funds raised through this campaign will be used to cover production costs such as equipment, crew, locations, and post-production expenses.
Once completed, the film will be submitted to various film festivals and distributed through online platforms, allowing a wider audience to view the film and engage in important conversations about inclusivity and acceptance. We also have stretch goals in place if the project surpasses 100% funded. These goals include additional marketing and promotional efforts, the opportunity to submit the film to larger and more prestigious festivals.
In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we have developed a comprehensive safety plan to ensure the well-being of our cast and crew. We will be following all local and national guidelines and protocols to create a safe working environment.
We are crowdfunding now because we believe in the power of this story. With your support, we can bring this important story to life and make a difference in the lives of LGBTQ+ youth and their allies.
Please Follow & Share!
Contribute what you can and help us bring Take Note to life by sharing our campaign on social media! Here are some pre-written, copy/pasteable messages to make it easy for you:
- I just contributed to Take Note on Seed&Spark! This film aims to promote inclusivity and acceptance, and it needs your support! https://www.seedandspark.com/fund/take-note
- Join me in supporting Take Note, a powerful story about LGBTQ+ youth and the importance of inclusive education. https://www.seedandspark.com/fund/take-note
THANK YOU!!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
School
Costs $3,000
The perfect school for our story. 3K allows us to secure a location.
Lighting and Camera packages
Costs $3,050
The right gear allows us to create a stunning, high-quality film that will resonate with audiences.
Talent
Costs $1,775
We're looking to bring the best talent on board to make this film truly outstanding.
Crafty
Costs $580
We'll have hungry middle schoolers on set. Help us keep our cast and crew well-fed and happy!
Props
Costs $300
Back-to-school shopping came early! We need school supplies for props (plan to donate after)
Post Production
Costs $1,210
We need a super-star editor to bring our film together. This budget also includes cc and scoring.
Festival Fees
Costs $1,250
Take Note is running the festival circuit but those entry fees really pile up.
Crew
Costs $4,600
We'd love to bring on a crew from varied backgrounds and expertise to make this project exceptional.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Ciera Thompson’s journey from silence to power as a Black LGBTQ writer has made her a rising voice in the fight for intersectional equality.
Ciera is a Durham North Carolina native. In 2020 she was awarded 2nd place for Best Original Pilot by the Broadcasting Educators Association. She’s produced multiple Golden Telly Award-winning projects and directed It All Media’s marketing content at Sundance 2023. You can watch her golden-telly winning documentary here.
Ciera has a track record of success and dedication, from leading a local North Carolina TV station to national recognition as the Best College Station in the Nation in 2020, to mentoring young filmmakers through Girls Rock Film Camp. Ciera is currently living in Atlanta, GA continuing to write and produce original LGBTQ+ stories. This year, Ciera was inspired by activists and change-makers letting their voices shine. As a writer in the entertainment industry, the best way to get your work out there is to bring it to life yourself. Ciera is ecstatic to make Take Note her official directorial debut.
DIRECTORS NOTE;
"I am excited to share with you my vision for Take Note, a film that is close to my heart. As both the writer and director.
My directing style is collaborative, and I believe in creating an environment that fosters creativity and open communication. I have experience leading productions, managing budgets, and overseeing the casting and crew selection process. As a producer for the past two years, I have honed my skills in physical production and understand the importance of efficient scheduling, managing resources, and meeting deadlines.
I am thrilled to be working alongside a talented and dedicated team to bring Take Note to life. We have a shared commitment to telling stories that matter and bringing diverse perspectives to the screen. I'm filled with gratitude as partners like The Diversity Movement and Co-CreatED have chosen to partner with us and believe in our ability to make this film.
In Take Note, the setting is not just a backdrop, it's a character. We've carefully crafted a world that pulls you in and never lets go. As a filmmaker, I'm obsessed with creating a complete sensory experience for the viewer - one that takes you on a journey that lingers long after the credits roll. With Take Note, I want to explore the complexities of human relationships and the power that being your true self has over others. This film is a labor of love, and I'm excited to bring my unique perspective as a Black LGBTQ writer and director to this project. It's an opportunity to create something truly special - a film that not only entertains but inspires and challenges us to think about our own lives in a different way. So come along for the ride - I promise it'll be a journey you won't forget."
-- Ciera Thompson
Meet the rest of the team!
We're excited to have Alexander Glustrom as our Director of Photography. Alex's expertise in cinematography will be instrumental in creating a beautiful film that captures the heart and soul of our story. His understanding of visual storytelling, composition, and lighting will ensure that every frame of Take Note is stunning and impactful. Alex has a deep understanding of storytelling and emotional rhythm that will help bring our characters and their journeys to life on screen.
Alex's Reel 2023.
"I am proud to help tell stories that move audiences and matter to people. Inspired by creative expression and human connection, I am lucky that my work introduces me to new people and new places. Always learning, always exploring, and always working to be better than I was yesterday."-ag
We want to create a film that represents our diverse and inclusive world, and that's why we've brought together a team of talented individuals who share our values. Our director, senior producer, and lead actress, Ciera, Daniel, and Aliyah, are all members of the LGBTQ+ community and believe that diverse voices and perspectives are essential to creating powerful and impactful stories.
Aliyah Vasquez (IMDB) is Ms. Amado in Take Note. In choosing our, Ms. Amado, Ciera looked for someone who can balance gentle emotion with internal conflict. Aliyah's ability to let the audience into her personal psyche is what makes her the perfect actor to bring Ms. Amado to life.
Vasquez was originally born and raised in Hialeah, Florida where she danced competitively for many years before pursuing Higher Education. She received her B.S. in Psychology and Family Studies and then earned her M.Ed. in Higher and Postsecondary Education from Arizona State University. Prior to pursuing acting full time, she used to work in Recruitment and Admissions supporting first-generation and non-traditional college students in their application journeys.
As a queer Latina, Vasquez cares deeply about representation and telling stories that lift the communities that she identifies with and celebrates proudly. Outside of work, she enjoys dancing, staying active, the outdoors and finding new places to eat!
Daniel James Isabella is the Senior Producer for Take Note. From his work at Evil Twin Digital, he has found ways to bring new stories to the screen with the limited resources often available in the independent scene. Daniel is proud to be a part of Take Note and feels it is exactly the kind of movie we need to be making right now.
"From the time I first encountered the project I was hooked," Daniel said, "as a former educator who juggled with the freedom to be honest with students about my identity, it resonated with me on an exceptionally deep level".
Daniel is from Farmington Hills Michigan and is a graduate of Michigan State University with a Degree in Media and Information. In his spare time, Daniel is active in the theatre community, a huge fan of amusement park history, and occasionally sings in a cover band.