We are committed to creating character-driven stories that not only entertain, but offer viewers the opportunity to learn something. Our purpose is to uplift women and members of marginalized communities, in front of and behind the camera.

Ever been nervous for a job interview? Or ran late because you had to get gas? How about dripping chocolate on your brand new shirt with no napkins in sight? If you're a breathing human being, then you know the experience of trying to get through any given day successfully. However: no two people, or brains, experience one thing in the same way.

Which brings us to our first question:
What do you think of when you hear the term "ADHD"?

Chances are it's not a charming painter, a millennial combatting the status quo, or even a woman. Why is that? Two reasons: stereotypes and gender roles! As children, boys may be seen as energetic and active while showing symptoms of ADHD, while girls may be deemed as forgetful or overly-sensitive. This leads to boys being more than twice as likely to receive an ADHD diagnosis than girls, leaving countless women to either be diagnosed much later in life, or never receive a diagnosis at all. What?! Get in fam, it's time to shift societal norms!

What is Trying?

Trying is a 12 minute dramedy short film following Meg on her way to a job interview. She's creative, resilient, and fiercely passionate about the things that are important to her. We witness the obstacles Meg faces in a day, as well as her out-of-the-box thinking under different circumstances.

Trying Inspiration

  

  

Who is Trying?

This story could only be brought to life by the bossest, raddest, most capable team of women filmmakers on-set (and off-set in our ally editor)! This year, women took the reigns as directors Chloe Zhao, Emerald Fennell, and Regina King made history with their rightfully groundbreaking films. We plan to join the ranks of these incredible women telling unique, character-driven stories on camera, and showcase innovative, talented women behind it. From directors and actors, to producers and PA's, the knockout Trying team is fired up and ready to bring this story to life from the inside out! Meet the gang on "The Team" tab.

 

Why are we Trying?

As an actor, I want to work on projects that are not only entertaining to watch, but have the opportunity to educate its viewers as well. While some actors form production companies as a result of becoming A-Listers, I decided to flip the script. After years of waiting tables and doing odd jobs between auditions, this year I launched my own company and became the CEO of SamSkape Productions Inc. Through SamSkape I'm committed to not only creating a platform to make work I feel passionately about, but to  building a community and showcasing the talents of my fellow artists as well (and getting them paid for it)! I can't think of a better debut film to do that than Trying. Seriously. And did I mention the incredible Trying team? Who run the world: GIRLS *who refuse to accept gender roles in society and level the playing field for all artists therefore elevating the entertainment industry and uplifting others in the processss*

  

Why are we Trying now

After this past year, conversations surrounding mental health have become more prominent than ever. In 2020 I started going to therapy, and was officially diagnosed with anxiety and depression. So, as a psychology fan and Google-everything-er, I started doing some research. Not only did I learn about how my brain works, but I was able to learn about varying neurotypes and how others' brains work, too. This led me to learning about girls, women, and their underdiagnoses of ADHD. Enter: Trying.

 

     While writing the script for Trying, I learned a significant amount about mental health conditions, neurotypes, and ADHD. But I knew that in telling this story, I would need insight from people who experience what Meg is going through day in and day out. Through the power of social media, I've been able to meet incredibly talented performers, writers, and artists, all women with ADHD, who were willing to share their experiences and act as script consultants on the film. With their (fantastic) insight, I was able to transform the script and truly bring Meg to life. And - not only were they able to offer their perspectives, but their artistry as well. Two women are currently making commissioned artwork for the film, which will be showcased on screen as Meg's paintings. Multi-talented much?

 

 

     As if my heart wasn't already bursting, we'll be shooting Trying on-location at The Guadalupe Center in Canoga Park, my hometown. Ten years ago I directed a volunteer kids' acting camp there, and knew it would be the perfect place to shoot some pivotal scenes. The Guadalupe Center provides charity services to disadvantaged residents in the San Fernando Valley, supplying food to families, elderly support, and countless programs for children, immigrants, and refugees.

 

Trying Safely

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year has been difficult for many to find work. Freelance artists, actors, and filmmakers were no exception. With shooting set for this summer, we'll finally be able to come together on set and do what we love most: creating. While it might have taken us a little longer than expected to get here, we're so happy that we are. Cast and crew members will be required to be fully vaccinated before coming to set, and will be provided with the appropriate cleaning and safety accomodations as needed. A portion of the budget has been allocated for additional PPE and supplies, and safety protocols on set will be enforced.

 

THANK YOU for being a part this journey.
With your contributions, we can truly bring this story to life!

3 Easy Ways You Can Help:

1. Share this page and tag your friends anywhere you connect with people to spread the word!

3. Follow Trying here on Seed & Spark for exciting campaign and production updates!

2. Follow @trying_movie and #tryingmovie on social media for exclusive behind the scenes looks

 

Through the making of this film we aim to support women, artists, teachers, and people with ADHD. Our goal is to remove stigmas and stereotypes surrounding mental health and uplift others in the process. If you have resources that support this message, please email [email protected]