Individual Artist Project Grant (INDIVIDUALS ONLY)

On the most local level -- in Eveleth and Hermantown -- I believe people are going to really enjoy this film. Our intent is that this film will be something both communities can be proud of. On a broader level, a successful and locally-produced documentary about our area could bolster ongoing efforts to present the Arrowhead as a great place for the arts. A successful HOCKEYLAND would provide local filmmakers a first-hand view of start-to-finish documentary filmmaking. A successful HOCKEYLAND presented at local festivals would help boost turnout and enthusiasm for other filmmakers' works as well. Together we have something special to preserve and celebrate, and to share with all audiences who care about their communities. We will tell a story about these Arrowhead communities in unique and beautiful context.As former Iron Rangers and filmmakers with ongoing connections to Arrowhead and hockey communities, HOCKEYLAND is a story we have wanted to tell for years. Presenting a well-told story is always our most important goal. POND HOCKEY was viewed by over a million people. SAVING BRINTON screened internationally, was the longest-running documentary film in Iowa cinema history, and received acclaim in the New York Times and Hollywood Reporter. Base-case outcomes for HOCKEYLAND could include: A full-house Northern Minnesota premiere, media coverage in Duluth and around the arrowhead of the premiere, and opportunities for participants to take part in media coverage, presentation at local film festivals including Duluth Superior, Free Range, and Big Water and at theaters including Zinema and the West, and a broad viewership online after festival submissions. Stretch-case outcomes could include national festival and media acclaim and theatrical distribution. ARAC can have confidence in our ability to execute this project for two main reasons: First, we have a well-established record of completing projects. This is our fifth feature length documentary. We have completed two book projects and multiple short film projects as well. Second, we already have significant time and resources invested in this project, and have secured access and permission from all players on both teams. Verite-style stories by definition unfold in real time, meaning fundraising efforts often need to take place in real time as well. A prospective benefit for funders is that we have taken a good deal of the upfront risk already ourselves, both in crew time and in financing. We are far enough into principal photography to express our firm expectation that this film will be successfully executed.If the people who have graciously allowed us to film them see and appreciate the film, that will be one important measure success. If the film has a packed Arrowhead premiere and is well-received, that will be another major measure of success. If the film achieves critical acclaim that extends beyond Northern Minnesota, that will indicate broader success. We will measure success by audience reaction, festival and critic reception, overall viewership, and ability to see through all financial obligations of the project.