SYNOPSIS:
A former Army helicopter pilot turned flight instructor/parts runner, is on the brink of life after the FAA grounds his plane for maintenance issues. The plane is his sole source of income, which is already scarce, and his wife has made the decision to leave him the same day as the plane is grounded. The pilot adds to the situation by falling off the wagon and back into a drunken state of mind, which pushes him to try and end his life. Alcohol and pills don’t work, so he decides to take his plane on one, final flight, but as he is preparing the plane to leave an uptight millennial approaches him to charter a flight to Salt Lake City, Utah. The pilot reluctantly agrees to take the passenger with him after the millennial pays a wad of cash, money the pilot thinks could be the answer to getting his wife back. However, during the flight the engine of the plane fails and they crash in the mountains of Colorado. The two have to work with each other to get out of the mountains and to a location they can be rescued in time for the millennial to get to Utah to save his father by donating a kidney. After five grueling days in the mountains they are found, thanks to a creative solution to send out a rescue signal. The millennial saves his father in time, and the pilot discovers he knows the father from a helicopter rescue mission in Afghanistan, years earlier. The entire situation gets the pilot to reconsider his life on earth, a life worth living.
WHY THIS FILM?
Empower, Employ, & Train Veterans.
We are dedicated to involving veterans in the filmmaking process, both on-screen and behind the scenes, teaching valuable skills, fostering a sense of camaraderie, and highlighting the transformative impact of unity and support.
JOIN the dialogue on mental health.
We aim to contribute to the ongoing conversation about mental health, particularly among veterans. By depicting their struggles and triumphs, "Flight For Life" seeks to increase understanding and reduce stigma surrounding mental health challenges.
We are dedicated to involving veterans in the filmmaking process, both on-screen and behind the scenes, teaching valuable skills, fostering a sense of camaraderie, and highlighting the transformative impact of unity and support.
Inspire Positive Change & Resilience.
We are dedicated to involving veterans in the filmmaking process, both on-screen and behind the scenes, teaching valuable skills, fostering a sense of camaraderie, and highlighting the transformative impact of unity and support.
VETERANS IN FRONT OF AND BEHIND THE CAMERA:
An integral aspect of the production of Flight for Life involves engaging wounded veterans on both sides of the camera – not only as cast members but also as part of the crew. Through this approach, the movie emphasizes the notion that the world is enriched by their presence. This pioneering model aspires to transcend the confines of this film, aiming for a broader impact once the project is successfully realized.
Meryem Ersoz, our director, writer, and producer, brings her background as a former academic with a Ph.D. and a fervent commitment to nurturing emerging talent. She will personally collaborate with each veteran, devising a tailored set of goals and objectives aimed at elevating their skills throughout the production.
our partners:
Spirit of Flight Productions is at the forefront of producing "Flight For Life: The Movie," taking a central role in ensuring the film's authenticity and impact. With a dedicated commitment, the production company oversees the project. Notably, the production company goes beyond the conventional boundaries by procuring actual aircraft, an essential aspect of the movie's authenticity. This meticulous attention to detail not only enhances the visual experience but also underscores Spirit of Flight Productions' dedication to crafting a genuine and immersive storytelling environment, making a significant contribution to the movie's success.
Our partner to meet the objective of mentorship is a Dallas-based organization that prepares veterans for careers in film and media production through education, mentorships, and job placements. Through our agreement with VIFM, we will be employing 4-8 wounded veterans behind the camera as our crew, putting them to work in various departments such as art, camera, grip, and production team and paying them real wages for real experience.
HOW YOUR SUPPORT CAN MAKE A LASTING IMPACT
Donors to the "Flight For Life" movie have the unique opportunity to create a lasting impact on multiple fronts. Firstly, their support directly translates into meaningful employment and skill development for veterans, offering them valuable roles both on and off the screen. By contributing, donors empower veterans with hands-on experiences, fostering a sense of purpose, camaraderie, and newfound expertise in various aspects of filmmaking.
Furthermore, donors play a crucial role in elevating the conversation about mental health. Through their generosity, the film gains the necessary resources to bring poignant mental health themes to the forefront, shedding light on the challenges faced by veterans and inspiring dialogue on a global scale. By supporting this project, donors become catalysts for change, enabling the movie to serve as a powerful catalyst for awareness, understanding, and destigmatization of mental health issues.
In essence, donors to the "Flight For Life" movie are instrumental in crafting a transformative narrative that not only empowers veterans but also initiates a significant and impactful discourse on mental health, leaving a lasting legacy of positive change.
The Spirit of Flight Foundation, an Idaho-based 501(c)(3) non-profit is helping to produce the movie using tax-deductible donations from supporters.
CONTACT US:
Interested in learning more about our project? Whether you have questions or are passionate about joining our endeavor, we would love to hear from you. Feel free to reach out through this contact form, and let's embark on this transformative journey together. Join us in making a meaningful impact and telling a powerful story.
Nampa, ID 83687