Thursday, July 05, 2007

Mister Rogers & Me Trailer Premiere



Though Christofer and I began accruing footage in Nantucket in 2004, production on "Mister Rogers & Me" didn't begin in earnest until almost a year ago.

In fact, it was Sunday, June 25, 2006 when we drove to Fredericksburg, Virginia, to interview author Amy Hollingsworth, and then to Chapel Hill, South Carolina, to interview Human Kindness Foundation founder Bo Lozoff.

Just over one year later, we have this trailer to show for our efforts.

We've covered a fair amount of turf in between, including two trips to Washington, D.C. (Tim Russert, Susan Stamberg, and the Smithsonian), and three interviews here in New York (Marc Brown, Tim Madigan, and Linda Ellerbee).

We've also encountered our fair share of obstacles. Both Bill Moyers and Garrison Keillor declined our interview requests.

Still, it's been a terrific process, and easily the most meaningful project of my life. It's provided me with all sorts of insights and epiphanies, and afforded me the opportunity to meet some really inspiration people. Oh, and through the making of this film, I met the gentleman who will be marrying Abbi and me.

So, it's back to the production. We hope to shoot interviews with Katie Couric, Yo Yo Ma, and Found Magazine's Davy Rothbart, and to visit Dave Eggers' 826 organization. With any luck (and it will take a fair dose of luck), Chris and I will wrap it up in time for Mister Rogers' 80th birthday next year.

Stay tuned...

5 comments:

Unknown said...

I can't wait until this movie comes out. Fred Rogers has left an incredible legacy, and I know you can do justice to his memory. By the looks of the trailer, you're on your way. As a single father of a seven year old, I often rely on the gentle lovingkindness that Fred Rogers seemed to eminate through the television to teach my son. Godspeed, my friend, and if you need any legwork in the DFW area, you have a soldier. matthew.powell@accumatch.com

Heto said...

It looks fantastic! I'm so glad that you're sharing your journey with all of us and I can't wait to see the finished product.

Linda said...

I love the way these people light up when they talk about Fred Rogers. You've captured his heart in their words ... well done! Looking forward to the finished film.

Racheblue Love said...

Wow - looks great Ben - intriguing story & shot beautifully it seems. Can't wait to see it!
Best wishes, Rache / Ecomonkey x

lawyerchik said...

OK, so where is the rest of the movie? ;) It looks great, Benjamin! Have to ask: was that Chris and Ethan on the shore?

Keep it going!!