Dreaming In Savannah
Short Film By David Mahone, Masters of Fine Arts Candidate in Film & Television
A wealthy university Queen discovers unexpected similarities with the horn player during rehearsals for the 1962 homecoming coronation.
Your small donation will make this film possible.
We're in pre-production for “Dreaming In Savannah”. This story delves into the powerful themes of identity, culture, and love. Through the lens of the main protagonist, Clysteene Tait, we witness her unwavering commitment to upholding her family's legacy while forging her own path. And as her journey unfolds, we see her leadership evolve, all the while falling deeply in love with Richard.
What sets this film apart is its celebration of the HBCU experience, the fusion of arts, music, and media, and the timeless allure of courtship and romance. It draws inspiration from the countless love stories of HBCU graduates, much like my own late grandmother and grandfather, Clysteene and Richard Ross.
However to execute the film to the highest level meeting SCAD’s thesis requirements is expensive. We're looking for help and we would love for you to donate to this project.
All of the money received will go directly into the film’s production, which includes renting gear, securing locations, travel and transportation, production design and props, editing and color grading, feeding the cast and crew, and so much more.
We hope you'll support us in creating a film that embodies the essence of love.
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In the year 1962, Clysteene Tait, a headstrong, high-class junior has just been elected as Miss Savannah State College. During the first rehearsal for the school’s jazz-themed coronation ceremony, she first meets another student, Richard Ross Jr., who is just an ordinary horn player, who grew up in the inner city ghetto - and looks the part. As rehearsals for the inaugural ceremony continue, Richard and Clysteene’s personalities clash. Clysteene thinks they are incompatible because of social status and class, and Richard thinks Clysteene is bougie because her parents are big supporters of the college contributing more money to Savannah State than his parents earn in a year. One day after rehearsal, Ollie Dixon, Clysteene’s best friend, suggests she go run errands with Richard, because of the energy she saw between them in rehearsals earlier. Clysteene drives Richard, and on the way back, she runs out of gas. The two start arguing, and Richard tries to push it, but it won’t budge. Amidst the chaos, a truck passes by, and the fear of the unknown that time scares them, causing Richard to protect Clysteene, and Clysteene begins to see him in a new light. The day of the coronation Richard arrives early to the practice room to rehearse his set one last time and runs into Clysteene and Ollie. Unfortunately, the door closes behind and locks after Ollie leaves. They spend hours waiting for someone to open the door. While waiting, they discover they have the wrong impression of each other. Clysteene is not as bougie as Richard thought and Richard is more sophisticated than Clysteene imagined. They begin to actually see each other for the first time. In the meantime, people start arriving at the coronation, and Ollie goes back to the room to look for Clysteene, allowing them to leave. Richard gives Clysteene well wishes one more time before heading on stage, and at the end of the ceremony, they finally share a kiss.
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Pre-Production: May - July 2023
Principal Photographer: July 26th - July 31st 2023
Post-Production: August - November 2023
Meet Our Team
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David Mahone
DIRECTOR
David Mahone, a native of Atlanta's Westside, graduated from Savannah State University with a bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies, concentrating in Visual Arts. Currently pursuing a Masters of Fine Arts in Film and Television at Savannah College of Art and Design, David has showcased his creative expertise through film projects that highlight his versatile skills. In addition to his film work, David runs a successful photography business. He has collaborated with eOne Nashville, capturing moments from events and press runs featuring artists such as Jonathan McReynolds, Deitrick Haddon, Todd Dulaney, and Tweet. His exceptional work has garnered recognition, with features on TV One, Southern Regional Press Institute, Rosenthal Art Gallery, the Cultural Arts Council Center and his Alma Mater Savannah State University.
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Jamaica René
PRODUCER & SCREENWRITER
Jamaica René is a Director and Producer originally from Oakland, CA. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Spelman College and is currently a graduate student at Savannah College of Art and Design for her Master of Fine Arts Degree in Film and Television. Jamaica has written, directed, and produced several projects including narrative and documentary films, commercials, and music videos. It is her goal in entertainment to push the envelope of everyday Black stories.
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Jamal Hendrix
DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY
Jamal Hendrix is a cinematographer born and raised in Atlanta, GA. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communication from the illustrious Savannah State University and is currently running his on media business, Creative Perception. Hendrix has extensive experience shooting music videos, commercials, and short films, and is proficient with Canon, Sony, Black Magic, and Red cameras. Hendrix has adopted a cinematic style that incorporates the use of wide-angle lenses paired with untraditional framing.
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Charity Mahone
PRODUCER & SCREENWRITER
Charity Mahone, a multi-talented creative from Atlanta, Georgia, is passionate about writing uplifting stories that showcase unique experiences, particularly those of Black people. She has written for various projects, amplifying diverse narratives. Additionally, Charity operates a boutique branding agency, guiding business owners in building brands that attract the right clients. Her expertise has resulted in clients being featured on prominent platforms like HBO, BET, Essence, and Ebony. Through her storytelling and branding talents, Charity is dedicated to making a meaningful impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here’s a list of popular questions regarding “Dreaming In Savannah”
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For the generous individuals who donate $500 or more, we extend our heartfelt gratitude and invite you to an exclusive private screening of the film.
However, if the donation amount does not meet the specified threshold, there is still an opportunity for you to view the film in 2024 at film festivals.
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The inspiration behind this film was to celebrate the HBCU experience, fusing arts, music, and media to create a mesmerizing ode to courtship and romance.
Drawing wisdom and guidance from countless HBCU graduates' love stories, including my late grandparents Clysteene and Richard Ross, this film is a celebration of love that transcends boundaries of race, geography, time, and societal norms.
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You can support this film either click here to give through our Kickstarter or Zelle hello@davidmahone.com. All donations will go towards the film.
We can't do it without you.
Your generosity will not only help me achieve my artistic goals but also contribute to promoting diverse narratives and fostering inclusivity within the film industry. Together, let's make a difference in increasing representation on the big screen.
