1. Project Idea and Approach:

"Love You, Bye." follows an 18-year-old city kid who moves to a small rural town to live with his grandma for a "fresh start." Fitting in feels impossible until an unexpected group takes him under their wing, helping him redefine his sense of belonging. This film draws from my real experiences and the people I've encountered, so I’ll use smaller cameras to keep it authentic. The aesthetic will blend a Midwest country vibe with an alternative grungy indie and Midwest emo feel, featuring a unique mix of Midwest emo and country music. I hope to learn the technical skills of working with a crew, as this will be my first time doing so.

2. Impact:

I hope the film's core message will help people see life through a different lens and recognize what’s right in front of them. I'm particularly excited to collaborate with Native Americans, bringing together diverse backgrounds to realize this vision. I aim to challenge the stereotype that small-town life is simple and that people here are not accepting, highlighting that our shared humanity transcends race and place.

3. Growth as a Maker:

I'm eager to learn the ins and outs of a narrative project and get my first one under my belt. The Inspiration Fund would provide the financial support I need to make this film happen, covering costs for equipment, locations, and meals for the cast. Additionally, I'm looking for mentorship and connections that could help me successfully complete this project.