Doc Passes Hat for Toronto

By S.T. VanAirsdale

The inbox of a independently run film Web site is hardly the recommended destination for documentary fundraising appeals, but any doc in need -- especially any NYC doc -- that comes endorsed by Toronto Film Festival programmer Thom Powers in advance of its TFF premiere is a friend of mine, so here's the latest from producer Sandi Dubowski:

After 12 countries, nine languages, and five-and-a-half years, producer Sandi DuBowski and director Parvez Sharma are proud to announce the world premiere of our film, A Jihad for Love, at the Toronto International Film Festival, Sept. 6-16, 2007. The film is the first feature documentary to explore the complex global intersections between Islam and homosexuality. ...

It is critical that we raise the funds to reach the finish line and with two weeks away we have very little time. Any contribution can truly make the difference in our ability to complete this work and world premiere a film of the highest quality -- in sound, image, titles, music. It will also allow us to assemble the team that will maximize the opportunity of this premiere for Muslim dialogue and outreach, press attention and the presence of those from around the world who are featured in the film to join us on stage. We welcome all personal donors towards this major completion and launch. All gifts are tax-deductible. ... Please contact Sandi DuBowski (sandi [AT] filmsthatchangetheworld [DOT] com)

And if you're really feeling generous, I can refer you to a local Web publisher I know who might have a primo investment opportunity.

Posted at August 28, 2007 4:52 PM