Lost In Living DVD Release

Lost In Living is finally available on DVD!  Go here to purchase your copy!

Here is the NEW two minute trailer:

The full-length documentary film Lost In Living is now available on DVD.  Please visit the website: www.maandpafilms.com/lostinliving to purchase your very own copy. We are offering House Party Kits which will include a second DVD of extra footage and an in-depth discussion guide. Please share this post with anyone you can think of who would enjoy this film. I am very grateful.

I spent seven years documenting and recording four women as they experienced parenthood for the first time and after children leave.  I was there when they felt the loss of creative energy, grappled with divorce, regret, triumphs and failures.

This movie is an in-depth exploration of a domain normally off-limits – illumination of private experience, events that happen behind closed doors and the unveiling of one’s most personal, private and conflicted thoughts about life, family, artistic expression and self-image.
 

These amazing women shared their personal stories so that I may share them with you.

What job entity wields the most private power on the planet and yet has no public face?  Motherhood, the world’s most demanding, least compensated job.  Where only perfection is acceptable and failure is certain.  And who are these women who become mothers even when their creative compulsion tells them not to?  Lost In Living focuses on that very issue.  This story is about feeling like an outsider and wanting to be special.  About wanting to be heard – and don’t we all?
 Lost In Living is not a traditional Hero Story.  Hero stories are great.  We love to be inspired by the long shot, the renegade, the against all odds success. But we also long to see our own more nuanced and less formulaic experiences presented to us for reflection and identification. Lost In Living is about every aspect of the complexities of living in our modern world.  Thank you for taking a look. 

Almost there...

We will be celebrating very soon...

The film is so close to being completed.  The cut we have now is very close to a "fine" cut and it is exciting.  Yes, we're still working on the music cues, photoshopping the many, many photos, fixing sound, color correcting, working on graphics and titles, etc. but the story is sound.  I almost can't believe it.  Your support, your encouragement and your connection to this project have kept me going and I am so grateful.

For those of you who have not seen the Kickstarter Page I want to give you the link because I've been posting updates about the film, sharing videos, links, poetry, photos and short clips I think you will like.  Just click here.

We exceeded the goal we set on Kickstarter and I couldn't be happier and more grateful.  Of course there's always time to contribute.  Our post-production, publicity, marketing and outreach costs also exceed the goal we set on Kickstarter -  by a lot.  You can visit the website (here) to make a tax deductible donation any time.  And if you get a second to go to the website and join the newsletter, that would be great.  Thanks.

But please know this film will now be completed because of all the support you have already given.  THANK YOU!!!

Below are the newest clips from the project.  I hope you enjoy them.  Feel free to comment, share your thoughts and communicate.  I always love hearing from you.  All the best, Mary

And the RACE is on...

The finish line is in sight and I’m not just talking about the Olympics.  I now have a rough cut of my film Lost In Living and it is because of your support and your friendship.  I am so grateful and frankly quite touched by your belief in this project and in me. 

I am launching a Kickstarter Campaign and I need to raise $5000 or more in the next 30 days.  That’s how Kickstarter works.  If the goal isn’t reached, I get nothing.  This last fundraising push is necessary to complete the editing, pay the composer, update the website, create an education guide and show this film everywhere. You can read all the details about it when you click on this campaign link:

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/27218549/lost-in-living 

  

Many of you have financially contributed to this project already.  Your incredibly generous help has kept me editing this film toward completion.  Thank you so very, very much.

There are so many ways to participate in the project without sending money.  And I need that help.  Open up your rolodex or your email contact list and send the Kickstarter link to anyone who you think would be interested.  See if you can find at least five people to email.

Maybe you know someone who can write about it in a blog or an article or on a Facebook page.  Take up the message of the film as your own and pass the news about it to your friends, relatives, co-workers – even strangers on the street.

Become an Outreach Partner.  Spread the word about the film in your community, to arts and womens’ organizations.  Help us find places we can screen this film and partner with organizations that can benefit from its message. 

Most of all broadcast this Kickstarter campaign as often as you can.  Facebook it, tweet it, email it, talk about it.  My thanks are enormous.

Please sign up on the website (below) for the newsletter and continue to receive updates on the progress of Lost In Living.  There is so much more to come.

http://www.maandpafilms.com/lostinliving

With your participation and support I plan to have this film completed in the next few months.  I simply can’t thank you enough.

Post Yard Sale/Film Fundraiser

Night before yard sale

Hello,

A GIGANTIC thanks to all the people who helped me with the yard sale.  It was a huge, huge effort and I am so grateful to everyone who contributed so many wonderful items, helped me set up, helped sell to customers, passed out postcards about the film, hung signs and bought things.  A very special thank you to my daughter, Nuala, and her friends, who tirelessly sold lemonade and cookies and always asked first before they helped themselves.  The weekend took it out of me but it was all worth it.  Met some great neighbors I never knew I had, met people who came because they wanted to support the movie, got to be outside all day both days and made enough money to continue editing for another week and a half, pay for the postcard printing and all the expenses from the yard sale (posters, signs, etc.).   I am truly grateful to all of you and truly grateful it is over.  We only had a few items left and we will be donating them to Goodwill.  

The film is definitely coming along.  I've often said editing this film is like writing a novel - or rather what I imagine writing a novel would be like.  Because I've never even attempted to do something like that.  But I've always loved novels and I want this film to feel like that.  So we are working hard at interweaving the stories together.  Making the difficult decisions about what stays in and what doesn't based on how the individual women reflect, comment and contradict each other.  This will be a film that moves back and forth from each woman to show the connections between them.  And it's all getting very exciting even when we don't know what to do next.  Fortunately we're not stuck for long.

Fundraising efforts seem to never cease so with that said here is the link to donate to the film.  More than your money, why not forward the link to a few friends.  Spreading the word not only helps raise money but also lets people know about the film.  We need that support when the film is completed and we want to screen it everywhere.  So thank you for everything and more news will be coming soon...

Like the facebook page here.  Thanks!

xo

Mary

Yard Sale Reminder

Hello Supporters of the Lost In Living Film,

As you know I am hosting a yard sale to once again raise more funds to complete this film.  At this point you must be wondering, "my God, is this woman desperate, or what?"  And frankly, I am.  

There are few things in life that I've felt so strongly about that I'll work my ass off to make a few hundred bucks to pay my editor or buy paper stock to send thank you letters to contributors.  But those few things have struck me with such power that I know I should pursue them.  

And here I am.  Desperately trying to complete this complicated and immense project. Seven years of filming four very different women who kept my attention and passion in a way so few people do.  That is why I know their stories will resonate with you.  

Heroes we can look up to and work toward.  Underdogs we root for and feel good about.  Sometimes we need to see who we are.  People who are both heroes and underdogs as well as mothers, artists, caretakers, parents, friends and struggling humans trying to make our way in the world.  This is what Lost In Living is really all about.  

So with that said, how about chipping in and contributing whatever you can for the yard sale.  Or maybe you'd rather write a check or donate on-line here.  

Maybe you'd like to just spread the word to everyone you know.  I would love that!  I am so grateful for your support, your participation and your input into this project.  Everyone who contributes in any way will have their name in the closing Thank You credits of the film.  All cash donations are tax deductible.  

__________________________________________________________________

Here's the info you need to know about the yard sale:

Just a friendly reminder that our yard sale is coming up and we would love to take some stuff off your hands!  We’ll even pick it up.  So read below and let me know.  Really appreciate this.

Mega Yard Sale on Saturday, June 2nd and Sunday, June 3rd!!!

I am asking everyone I know if they have anything they want to get rid of that we can sell to support Lost In Living.  We’ll take clothes, furniture, books, antiques, knick knacks, pictures, jewelry, artwork, photos, kitchen ware, toys, etc. that are in gently used condition.  This is a unique opportunity for you to clean out your closets, garages and drawers and support the film.  And whatever doesn’t sell we will donate to Goodwill or a local charity.  Get your name in the Thank You credits of the film!

How it will work:

•           Email me here directly with a general list of what you’d like to donate.

•           I will email you or call you to schedule a specific pick-up time sometime during the weekend before the sale.

•           We will pick-up the items the weekend before the actual sale.  Saturday, May 26 and Sunday, May 27.

•           Sale on Saturday, June 2nd and Sunday, June 3rd from 8 to 4. 

•           If you don’t live in the area and you want to ship items for us to sell, please send to my address: 1218 E. Palm Street, Altadena, CA 91001.

•               You can also deliver your goods right to us.  Please email me here and we'll figure out the best time.

•           If you are not available the weekend of May 26^th and 27^th for pick-up and your contribution can fit in the back of a Prius, please let me know and I can arrange a pick-up that is convenient for you.

I am so grateful for your help and participation.  Please feel free to pass along this email to anyone else who might be interested. 

To contribute directly to the film please visit the website here or you can mail a check to my non-profit 501(c)3 fiscal sponsor “Filmmakers Alliance” at 1218 E. Palm Street, Altadena, CA 91001.  All donations are tax deductible!! 

To like the Facebook page, please go here. 

Yours truly,

Mary

Mary Trunk

www.maandpafilms.com

www.maandpafilms.com/lostinliving/

www.thewatershedproject.com

MEGA YARD SALE JUNE 2 & 3

Dear Lost In Living Friends,

Spring is settling in. Some days reaching 90 degrees and other days dropping down to 65. Much like producing a film! The ups and downs are frequent but when you feel as strongly as I do that this film is working, you keep at it. Editing is steadily progressing. Lost in Living is becoming a funny and poignant movie. A movie that will resonate with anyone who has ever had to confront the contradictions inherent in personal ambition, female friendship, mental isolation, big projects and dirty dishes.

The stories and themes are settling into a rhythm and the connections are exciting and riveting. That’s the up side of things. I am convinced now more than ever that this will be a very compelling film. And your support is helping it get there.

On the down side of things – a better description would be challenge– is the need to raise more funds. This film started out with close to seven years worth of footage. Hundreds of hours. Whittling all of that down takes time and editing is a long process.

We have an experienced and committed editor who feels passionate about this film and we need her for at least two more months. We have also recruited an amazing and talented composer. Although both of these artists are working at discounted rates we still need help paying their fees.

So we are going to have a Mega Yard Sale on Saturday, June 2nd and Sunday, June 3rd!!!

I am asking everyone I know if they have anything they want to get rid of that we can sell to support Lost In Living. We’ll take clothes, furniture, books, antiques, knick knacks, pictures, jewelry, artwork, photos, kitchen ware, toys, etc. This is a unique opportunity for you to clean out your closets, garages and drawers and support the film. And whatever doesn’t sell we will donate to Goodwill or a local charity. And your name will appear in the closing credits of the film!

How it will work:

• Email me (marytrunk@sbcglobal.net) directly here with a general list of what you’d like to donate.

• I will email you or call you to schedule a specific pick-up time sometime during the weekend before the sale.

• We will pick-up the items the weekend before the actual sale. Saturday, May 26 and Sunday, May 27.

• Sale on Saturday, June 2nd and Sunday, June 3rd in my driveway.

• If you don’t live in the area and you want to ship items for us to sell, please send to my address: 1218 E. Palm Street, Altadena, CA 91001.

I am so grateful for your help and participation. Please feel free to pass along this information to anyone else who might be interested.

And if you want to see more clips from the film, please visit the youtube channel here. To like the facebook page please go here.  To contribute directly to the film please visit the website here.

With heartfelt thanks,
Mary

Working Steadily!

Hello Lost In Living Friends,

Just wanted to update you on the progress of the film. Things are getting exciting as we continue editing this amazing material. And we are still shooting for a Summer release. Your support has given us the opportunity to continue working steadily. I am so, so grateful. We still need to raise money for our composer ($2,500), editing the final cut ($3,000), one more shoot in Fargo ($1,000), publicity and an outreach campaign ($5,000). Your tax deductible contribution can help us do just that. Thank you so much! In the meantime I've included some clips from the film for your enjoyment. Feel free to share your thoughts and comments. I love hearing from you. Again, my heartfelt thanks for your support. Warmly, Mary

P.S. The special offer is still available. I am giving away a DVD of my most recent feature film Plain Art to each person who contributes $50.00 or more to Lost In Living. Make your contribution on-line here or mail a check made out to Filmmakers Alliance to 1218 E. Palm Street, Altadena, CA 91001. Completely tax deductible!

Women's History Month

Dear Lost In Living Friends,

Its March and Spring is very close. It's also Women's History Month and definitely an appropriate time to talk about women both past and present. We are pushing to complete Lost In Living by this Summer. Your support has given us the opportunity to work with an experienced editor for two months, full-time, and we have already made a lot of progress. We couldn’t do this without you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Lost In Living is about the intersection of motherhood (parenthood) and the artist’s life. What you will see in this film are four women who intimately examine and reveal how they manage to do both. These stories reflect how we all struggle with the balance of family commitment and personal work. Thank you for understanding the importance of this film.

• We need to raise more funds for the following:

1. Composer Fee ($2,500) – Ron Rennells, a talented and prolific composer, who created the score for my most recent film, Plain Art, has signed on to create an original score for Lost In Living.
2. Trip to Fargo ($1,000) - One more shoot is needed to document Marjorie Schlossman’s Opening of her one woman show of paintings in June.
3. Editor Fee ($3,000) – Our editor is already working at a reduced rate because she is passionate about the film. We need a few more weeks of time with her.

• And we have a special offer for you:

We are giving away a DVD of my most recent feature film Plain Art to each person who contributes $50.00 or more to Lost In Living. Just make your donation on the website and a DVD will be sent to you.

Please view the trailer below:



Description of Plain Art:
In 2005, Fargo, North Dakota painter, Marjorie Schlossman (one of the subjects of Lost In Living), asked six architects to design and build art chapels that she could paint in. The only requirements were to stay within a $25,000 budget, make them portable and include a spiritual element without the trappings of religion. Filmed over two years, Plain Art intimately documents the risks, struggles and successes of this creative process. The film elucidates the unique convergence of art, architecture and spirituality as well as the conflicts that arise when an artist funds her own large, ambitious public art project. In a pragmatic and rural community like Fargo, abstract art is not always welcome and understood and the architects were asked to think more like artists and less like engineers. Plain Art shows people revisiting their idealistic notions of creativity and recapturing their own personal faith and spirituality

• If you didn’t get a chance to see any of the new clips that have been posted on Facebook each week, here are links to those. And while you’re at it you can subscribe to the youtube channel here and receive notifications every time I upload a new clip.

• Please like the facebook page here. Each week I post a short clip from the film, some of them clips that may not even make it into the finished film. See outtakes and in depth observations and reflections because you liked the facebook page.

• Rachel Power, Author of the book The Divided Heart: Art and Motherhood, recently wrote about Lost In Living here. The Divided Heart is an extremely worthwhile book featuring conversations with some of Australia’s most prominent writers, artists and musicians about combining the twin passions of art and motherhood.

• As always, all contributions are completely tax deductible. It’s easy to contribute by visiting the website here and clicking on the donate button. If you are not comfortable donating on-line, please feel free to write a check to my non-profit fiscal sponsor “Filmmakers Alliance” and mail it to me at 1218 East Palm Street, Altadena, CA 91001. You will receive a thank you/receipt letter for your taxes.

Help us complete Lost In Living this Summer.

I am so, so grateful.
Mary