Help Bring Desolate Dreams to the Screen

Desolate Dreams is an upcoming narrative film inspired by true events. Set in 1942 Los Angeles, it follows the friendship between an African American journalist and a Japanese American family whose lives are forever changed by World War II incarceration.

More than a short film, Desolate Dreams is part of a larger storytelling initiative dedicated to preserving an overlooked chapter of American history and fostering dialogue around civil liberties, community, and cross-cultural solidarity.

Written and directed by Capital Emmy-nominated filmmaker Kiyoka "Kex" Rhodes, the film explores the human impact of incarceration through the lens of friendship, journalism, and resilience.

As a half-Japanese filmmaker, Rhodes is committed to preserving and sharing the stories of those impacted by incarceration while helping bring greater awareness to this important chapter of American history.

Supported By

  • United States-Japan Foundation
  • Heart Mountain Wyoming Foundation
  • Takahashi Foundation
  • Asian American Futures
  • Arena Stage
  • Marin Community Foundation
  • Masto Foundation
  • Strawberry Farm Productions
  • Martin & Mae Herbert

Production Update

With major support already secured and nearly half of our fundraising goal reached, we are now focused on closing the final phase of fundraising ahead of production.

Every tax-deductible contribution helps move the project closer to filming and supports the preservation of an important piece of American history.

Why Now

During World War II, more than 120,000 Japanese Americans were forcibly removed from their homes and into incarceration.

While this history is often overlooked, its lessons remain relevant today.

Inspired by true events, Desolate Dreams explores not only the injustice of incarceration, but also the acts of friendship and solidarity that emerged during one of America's most challenging periods.

Donate

Your tax-deductible contribution helps bring Desolate Dreams to the screen and ensures these stories continue to be shared with future generations.

Dreams is a fiscally sponsored project of Independent Arts & Media (EIN: 94-3355076).

Make a donation

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