Help us bring Desolate Dreams to the screen in 2027

2027 marks the 200th anniversary of the Black Press in America and 85 years since the forced removal and incarceration of Japanese Americans began. We are working to bring Desolate Dreams to the screen as we commemorate these defining chapters in American history.

Desolate Dreams is a narrative short film set in 1942 Los Angeles. Inspired by the overlooked history of Black journalists who advocated for Japanese Americans during World War II, it follows the friendship between an African American journalist and a Japanese American family as they confront the devastating impact of incarceration.

With nearly half of our production budget secured, we are actively closing our remaining fundraising gap so we can begin pre-production and film in spring/early summer 2027.

Please consider making a tax-deductible contribution today and join us in bringing this history to the screen and educating the next generation.

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

Nearly 50% funded.

We're raising the remaining funds needed to complete pre-production and begin principal photography.

Every contribution moves Desolate Dreams closer to production while expanding its educational impact.


Why This Story Matters

Inspired by true events, Desolate Dreams explores not only the injustice of Japanese American incarceration, but also the bonds that can emerge in times of fear and division. Through the friendship between an African American journalist and a Japanese American family, the film highlights an often-overlooked history of empathy, allyship, and resistance in the face of injustice.

Donate

Your tax-deductible donation helps move Desolate Dreams into production.

Your donation helps fund:

  • Pre-production
  • Principal photography
  • Cast and crew
  • Period costumes, props, and locations
  • Post-production

Desolate Dreams is a fiscally sponsored project of Independent Arts & Media.

Make a donation

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