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Thursday, July 5, 2012

Searcy native filming feature film in Arkansas


Beginning July 12, Arkansans will have the opportunity to support Searcy native, Joe Aaron, co-creator of Disney’s popular animated series Doug, in his efforts to create a feature film titled Guttersnipes.

The father of an autistic child, Aaron wrote the family-friendly film to address autism, homelessness and race relations.

“At age three, my daughter was diagnosed with autism,” Aaron said. “I started thinking, what will happen to her when I’m not around? How will she live? From these thoughts, hopes, dreams and fears I created Guttersnipes.”

The project is being funded in part through Kickstarter, an online funding platform for creative projects.

“When I started out, the only way to work in the entertainment industry was to ‘play ball’ with the Hollywood power brokers,” Aaron said. “That’s why Kickstarter and the independent film movement is so important. This time, I’m the producer, and there will be no Hollywood interference. By using Kickstarter, and with the help of the community, my film will remain mine – family-friendly and shot in my home state.”

About Joe Aaron
An Arkansas native, Aaron is a Harding University alum and a graduate of the American Film Institute. He is best known for his work as co-creator of the popular Disney animated series Doug. Aaron worked in television production for many years, including a stint at the Children’s Television Workshop and as an on-air promotion writer and producer for HBO, Cinemax, Comedy Central and E!.

Co-author of the children’s book Doug's Big Shoe Disaster, Aaron is also writer, producer and director of the feature film Crazy Jones – winner of numerous awards, including Audience Choice Best Feature at Cinequest International Film Festival. He is featured in two documentaries: Dreams on Spec and Autism the Musical.

About Guttersnipes
Guttersnipes director Shuchi Talati is a Los Angeles-based filmmaker and a directing alumnus of the American Film Institute. The film depicts the relationship between a homeless teenage girl and an abandoned 12-year-old autistic girl on a quest to find their mothers. It explores themes in race relations, autism awareness and female empowerment. Guttersnipes will be shot at a yet-to-be-determined location in Arkansas. For more information, find Guttersnipes at Facebook.com/Guttersnipesfilm or visit online at GuttersnipesFilm.com.

About Kickstarter
Kickstarter enables the community to donate money toward a film or creative project. Sponsorship levels begin at $5 and up. Kickstarter is an all-or-nothing funding method. Campaigns must reach the full funding goal before time runs out or else donors will be reimbursed. The Guttersnipes Kickstarter campaign launches July 12, 2012, and ends Aug. 26, 2012. The fundraising goal is $150,000. Donate at kickstarter.com.

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