Behind the Scenes: The Making of a Groundbreaking Documentary on Food Insecurity

In the heart of Philadelphia, a groundbreaking documentary project is taking shape, spearheaded by the visionary executive producer Harry Hayman. With a focus on the pressing issue of food insecurity, this documentary is rapidly gaining momentum, thanks to a dedicated team and a series of successful interviews and collaborations that promise to bring this critical story to the forefront of public consciousness.This project is beginning to feel unstoppable, things are falling into place and moving quickly. Just today, the crew sat down with Larry Downey of Broad Street Ministries for our first formal interview. Next week we interview Jonathan Deutsch, director of the Drexel Food Lab at Drexel University.

We have added camera operator Jupiter Fox to the team. Fox is a sharp, savvy all-around filmmaker whose input will go far beyond his camerawork, he will add his insights and opinions about the film. The team is clicking, with Harry Hayman doing a great job of rising to the challenge of being the executive producer. But, unlike most EPs who primarily write checks, hire and fire people, Harry is extremely hands-on and is really the one driving the ship – making sure that director Kaloni Davis has everything he needs with regards to access and equipment and that writer-producer David J. Greenberg able to help with grant applications, compose interview questions and coordinate with the people we want to speak with on camera. Keeping the horse on the track is our crackerjack project manager, Gabrielle McNichol

The pressure to produce is real. We want to get this story out here but we are eager to have the film ready to submit to the important fall film festivals.  

A Dynamic Start with Key Interviews

The project kicked off with an inspiring start, marked by a significant interview with Larry Downey of Broad Street Ministries. This conversation set the tone for the documentary, highlighting the complexities and human stories behind food insecurity in Philadelphia. The momentum continued with plans to interview Jonathan Deutsch, the esteemed director of the Drexel Food Lab at Drexel University, next week. These interviews are crucial, providing expert insights and personal perspectives that will form the backbone of the documentary.

Expanding the Team with Expertise

Recognizing the need for technical excellence and creative insight, the team welcomed Jupiter Fox, a camera operator whose expertise extends far beyond his camerawork. Fox’s sharp filmmaking skills and valuable opinions are expected to significantly contribute to the depth and quality of the documentary. This addition underscores the project’s commitment to not just telling a story but telling it well, with every shot and angle carefully considered to enhance the narrative.

Harry Hayman: A Hands-On Executive Producer

At the helm of this ambitious project is Harry Hayman, whose role as an executive producer defies the conventional boundaries of the title. Far from being a distant financier, Hayman is deeply involved in the day-to-day operations, ensuring that director Kaloni Davis and writer-producer David J. Greenberg have the resources, access, and support they need. His hands-on approach and dedication to the cause are driving the project forward, setting a high standard for leadership and involvement in documentary filmmaking.

A Unified Team with a Shared Vision

The synergy within the team is palpable, with each member bringing unique skills and perspectives to the table. This collaborative environment is anchored by the project’s manager, Gabrielle McNichol whose expertise in keeping the project on track is invaluable. Together, the team is navigating the challenges of documentary production, from securing interviews to managing logistics, all while maintaining a shared vision and commitment to bringing the issue of food insecurity to light.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Aspirations

As the documentary progresses, the pressure to produce a compelling and impactful film is real. The team is eager not only to tell this important story but also to showcase it at major fall film festivals. This deadline adds urgency to their work, motivating them to capture the essence of the issue and create a film that will resonate with audiences and drive change.

This documentary, under Harry Hayman’s guidance and driven by a passionate and skilled team, is poised to make a significant impact. By focusing on food insecurity in Philadelphia, it aims to shed light on a critical issue, spark conversations, and inspire action. As the project continues to gather momentum, it’s clear that this documentary is not just a film; it’s a movement, with the power to transform how we understand and address food insecurity in urban communities.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *