Greeting readers and welcome to a new edition of “In Development”, a section I have ideally aimed to highlight films that are brought to me in their initial stages of realization, starting even at the crowdfunding level. It has been a while since I was approached to be a part of covering such an undertaking, but I am very honored to present this article in association with award-winning documentary filmmaker Gaylen Ross, whose current project, named “TitleShot”, has its Indiegogo crowdfunding effort under way, and will be produced through her company, GRFilms, Inc.. The aim: to raise $25,000 to get the thousands of feet of 16mm film footage she shot 20 years ago on an incredible boxing film, then have it “digitized, color-corrected, and audio-synched to picture” so it can finally be edited and turned into a feature film. But first, what exactly IS “TitleShot”?
The film follows the title quest of Junior Middleweight Ugandan fighter Godfrey Nyakana, and is a rare inside look at the world of professional boxing.
Set to play out like the fictional boxing tales we’ve known over the years, but now in real, vivid life, this effort has even been called the “”Raging Bull” of professional boxing films”. To have an undisputed look into the hard realities of an already brutal sport, the vaulted 16mm footage is waiting to be renewed and brought into the light by Gaylen Ross. “The dramatic, behind-the-scenes of professional boxing are fly-on-the-wall filming, and rarely, if ever, accessible to outsiders”, she says, which gives indication of exactly the “insider’s look” being offered with this project.
Also a huge bonus with bringing this story back into existence is the utterly fantastic line-up of name boxing pros who contributed to Nyakana’s journey, including such people as fighter turned trainer “Irish” Bobby Cassidy, fighters “Sugar” Shane Mosley and Kevin Kelly, the legendary cut man Al Gavin, Ali’s trainer Angelo Dundee, famous fight promotor Cedric Kushner, and manager Tom Loeffler. Some of these men will be caught up with today, to see where they’ve landed, while the film can also act as a tribute to those who have passed on. Again, any classic sports fan can appreciate the wealth of knowledge and insight these individuals would share in conjunction with the footage associated with this documentary. So, the question remains–will YOU be a part of helping this dream of restoration and sports history become a enlightening, engaging, and powerful reality?
With TWO WEEKS left to go on its Crowdfunding campaign as of this article, take the chance to become a part of this amazing event and filmmaking opportunity by choosing to contribute towards the costs required to restore the precious 16mm footage, see it fully enlivened, and then turned into what is sure to be a sensational, powerful, and inspirational documentary effort. And director Gaylen Ross wants you as a contributor to enjoy the benefits that come with contribution as well! So, take a look at the related gifts that you can choose from each donation level and know that it is offered with great thanks from Ms. Ross and all those associated with this project. So, here is the important link to know about and VISIT:
“TitleShot” Indiegogo Page: HERE
And, some more associated links as well:
“Follow” the “TitleShot” Twitter Account: HERE
“Follow” Director Gaylen Ross’ Twitter Account: HERE
“Like” the “TitleShot” Facebook Page: HERE
Check out Gaylen’s Production Company, GRFilms, Inc., Website: HERE
So spread the word to everyone you know, from sports fans, to history buffs, to filmmaking enthusiasts! This goal IS attainable and YOU can be a part of this film’s journey! It is so imperative that support for independent film continues to grow stronger and stronger, as there are truly fantastic, human stories that need to be told and shared!
Thank you for reading and please consider supporting this film!
**B&W Godfrey & Bobby photos courtesy of Mark Wexler**
**All other photos (with exception of the color Bobby close-up) courtesy of Chris Cassidy**
