Safe Haven

This film details the complex relationship between a mother and daughter, specifically, how said relationship is tested when parent and child clash over future academic pursuits. Amelia strives for higher education, despite her mother, Maria’s concerns that she  is not prepared to go to college, as Amelia struggles with anxiety and depression. Maria wants to protect her daughter as she is afraid the uncertainties that could arise for Amelia while she is away from home.

When Maria discovers that Amelia has indeed been accepted to college, she hides the news from her daughter, culminating in a deeply rooted conflict between them. Will Amelia defy her mother and pursue her goals? Will Maria finally recognize the strength of her daughter?

SAFE HAVEN explores not only the complexities of the duties and obligations of familial love, but the weight of dealing with mental illness at the same time. This film is aimed at people of color who struggle with depression in particular, as many cultures around the world still carry a taboo against discussions regarding mental health. We hope that this film will encourage young people around the world to pursue their goals, despite how the rest of the world might dismiss them.

Our team aims to raise at least $8,000 through our campaign for our short film, Safe Haven. The funds will cover the core needs of the film including crew, camera, location and production design.

Every donation, no matter how small, helps make this film possible and we are grateful for each and every person who donates as any donation amount makes you a part of our Safe Haven family! 

MEET THE WRITER/DIRECTOR: Amri Rigby

Originally from Decatur, Georgia, Amri is a junior at the University of Southern California. He is studying Arts, Technology and the Business of Innovation at the Iovine and Young Academy. In his major, he focuses on the unique intersection of design, business and technology. Amri originally stumbled upon his interest in storytelling through a motion graphics class and from that point on, there was no looking back. Upon discovering his passion for using media to connect with audiences and evoke emotion, he decided to pursue film. Through Amri’s goals to write, act and direct throughout his career, he aspires to create stories that foster diversity in contrast to the stories depicted in Hollywood today. Safe Haven is a project dear to him that he hopes can inspire dialogue about mental health and bring to light a topic that is not usually addressed in communities of color.

MEET THE PRODUCTION TEAM:

Producers Carol Antoinette and Mykaila Williams (top) are extremely honored to be translating the story of Safe Haven on to the big screen. They are equally excited to be working with a team of professionals. Their Line Producer, Sydney Coleman (left), their Cinematographer, Casey Stolberg (center) and their 1st Assistant Director, Fiona Lawson (right) demonstrate their talent, skill and ability on a daily basis through phenomenal work ethics and inspiringly positive attitudes. 

We here on the Safe Haven team pride ourselves on our connectedness and our inclusivity! Join the fight and follow the journey on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/SafeHavenFilm/!