Falling Awake Productions

Website for Restaurant - House of Kabob

2012-02-19T01:01:00.002-05:00

Excited about the launch of the new site for House of Kabob, the family owned and operated Middle Eastern restaurant in Boonton, NJ. Site designed by Falling Awake Productions.

(www.houseofkabobboonton.com)

A 'Geekie' Shoot

2011-12-19T14:05:00.001-05:00

Had a wonderful time filming with the kids of PS. 7 in E. Harlem on Saturday along with the co-founders of 'Geekie' who will be launching a Kickstarter campaign in the coming months to launch their new collection of designs. Geekie (www.begeekie.com) will be donating a portion of their 2012 proceeds back to PS. 7 in an effort to bridge the education gap that exists in the neighborhood and provide the students with the resources needed to obtain a higher level of education. "Think smart, stay different, and BE GEEKIE." :)

Tunisia - Day 3

2011-08-16T14:01:00.000-04:00

Tunis, Tunisia

We eased into the morning on our third day in Tunisia. That's the wonderful thing about the country – Tunisians know how to ease into their days. We enjoyed a long breakfast, sipping on multiple cups of coffee, drinking fresh strawberry juice as well, toasting piece after piece of bread, and savoring the fresh fruit. Food in Tunisia is some of the freshest we've ever experienced, something you immediately realize every time you eat.

Tunisian Television Producer, Kais Sellamy

Around noon, Nadia's friend Kais Sellamy, who had helped us facilitate interviews the previous day, arrived at Nadia's. Kais is our ideal Tunisian counterpart and colleague. For over ten years, Kais has been involved in film and television production, serving as a producer on projects spanning various genres: documentary, situation comedy, and variety shows, to name a few. In the film industry, he is well connected not only in Tunisia, but throughout the Middle East.

Throughout our trip, we had the fortune of meeting key people, who went above and beyond in helping us obtain exactly what we needed. Kais generously connected us with Tunisians who we needed to interview on camera. The previous night, we had access to the underground rapper, and today, Kais helped schedule an interview with Samy, a 22-year old blogger. Samy, who often does not like to do on-camera interviews, generously took a train from his home in Sfax to Tunis, four hours away.

DJ Samy Chelly

With Samy commuting North to Tunis, we went to a nearby park overlooking all of Tunis, where we interviewed Kais. Nadia helped facilitate the interview, since Kais' experience with English is limited. Throughout our time in Tunisia, Nadia was yet another person we became quickly indebted to – not only for hosting us, but for joining us on interviews and serving as a language liaison.

(from L to R) Nadia, Kais, Sheryll and Samy

After Kais' interview, we headed to a cafe, picking Samy up along the way. We thanked him profusely for meeting us in spite of such a long commute, and treated him to whatever he wanted to eat. We all ordered something to eat or drink, and sat around for more than an hour, talking, laughing, and getting acquainted, while enjoyed an elevated view of a neighborhood in Tunis, filled with white residences.

We basked in the moment and appreciated how relaxed and content we were. In that moment, Sheryll found the perfect balance between work and relaxation, and she loves Tunisia for giving her that. “This is how I want Falling Awake Productions to be,” she said. “No rushing. Everyone easing in, taking their time, socializing, eating, and then once they're comfortable, we work.”

With everyone relaxed and well-fed, we were treated to an eye-opening interview. It became clear to us that for many Arab citizens, this was truly the first time in modern history that they have had a chance to openly express themselves. Prior to the revolution in January, Samy said he never would have agreed to an on-camera interview, for fear of consequence. In fact, Samy's blog was kept anonymous. 2011 came, and Samy finally revealed his name and identity in his blog. “Then I stopped caring,” he said. Now, Samy represents a youth generation that is coming of age in a way that no previous generation in Tunisia has. Samy showed us his Google Analytics, and his blog is well-respected and followed by people across the Middle East – quite an impressive feat for a young man only 22 years of age.

The Mediterranean in Tunis, Tunisia

After the interview, we spent more time together, discussing our mutual interests in music. Sean sat and enjoyed hookah, while looking out at the bright sun descending in the sky. After three hours at the cafe, we headed home, grateful for a perfect day in Tunis.

For More Information about DJ Samy Chelly:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/djsamychelly

Twitter: @SamyChelly

Tunisia - Days 1 & 2

2011-08-09T12:39:00.000-04:00

We arrived on a sunny Tuesday afternoon in Tunis. Sean couldn't help but smile as we landed. The sights of the blue-green Mediterranean, and ubiquitous white buildings with light blue window treatments, immediately took Sean down memory lane, to the six weeks he spent in Tunisia last summer.

We made plans to stay in the home of Sean's friend, Nadia, whose family kindly offered to host us. We were warmly greeted at the airport by Sean's former Arabic teacher, Hedia, as well as Nadia's father and sister. A few minutes later, we were at Nadia's house, a large, two-story home on the property of Lycee El Omrane, one of Tunis' largest high schools, where Nadia's mother is principal.

In the evening, we went to one of Tunis' many cafes, where we enjoyed tea with mint and almonds. “This is the best tea I've had in my life,” Sheryll joked. We relaxed, met Nadia's friends, enjoyed crepes at midnight, and headed to bed.

The next day, Sean visited with a friend, Farah. They met on Avenue Habib Bourguiba, the main avenue in Tunis, named after Tunisia's first president, who was the leader of the Tunisian independence movement back in the 1950s. The street was also the location of many protests during Tunisia's revolution in mid-January. Now, several months later, things seemed to be calm, and the tree and cafe-lined street (modeled after Parisian streets) felt just the same as it did last summer. Army tanks sat outside major buildings, but did not disturb the daily flow or energy of street activity. People were just as kind and light-hearted as they were before. The only major difference observed was the sudden discussion of politics in public places. Before January 2011, censorship in Tunisia was so strict that anyone caught speaking negatively about the country, politics or government would be incarcerated. Plainclothes informants were scattered about the country, and as an eerie reminder of censorship, a photograph of the ex-president Ben Ali was displayed (by law) in every business establishment. Now, with the old government overthrown and new opportunity to engage in conversation about the state of the country, we were able to talk about what had happened in Tunisia, how matters were before the revolution, and what people thought about the future of Tunisia.

In the late afternoon, we visited a suburb of Tunis, La Marsa, situated on the Mediterranean Sea. La Marsa was the site of protests and vandalism during the revolution in January, since it is close in proximity to the Presidential Palace, and many of the president's relatives reside there. We visited the home of the president's brother-in-law, that had been burned, looted, and vandalized. Now open to the public, we walked onto this once million-dollar property with sea views, to find not an inch of the walls unscathed. Debris, rubble and broken glass covered the floors, and many had taken their long-suppressed dissatisfaction by leaving their mark on the property. We spent well over an hour studying the drawings, paintings, and phrases (in several languages) that communicated sentiments that no one could freely express for the previous sixty years. It was clear that Tunisians finally had a voice, and they deservingly had a lot to say.

As the sun set, we drove to an appointment with an underground rapper who worked with artists across Tunisia. We met him at his studio, where he showcased some of the latest music he had been working on. The content of the music was motivated by the revolutions starting in Tunisia and expanding across the Middle East. The music he played showed that Tunisians were, in spirit, maintaining a close brotherhood with Arabs in other nations who were fighting for the same struggle. Our time with him demonstrated yet another way that young people in the Middle East are finding a strong and genuine voice in this revolution era.

Well past midnight, we arrived back at Nadia's, where we stayed up, laughed, talked, and snacked on some of the freshest peaches, watermelon and figs. It is ideal, after a day of hard work, to come home to a warm and loving family, especially after almost three weeks of nonstop hotels and apartment rentals. Family really has been one of our favorite aspects of our time in the Middle East and North Africa.

Last Days in Tahrir Square

2011-08-06T13:55:00.000-04:00

Post-Revolution Graffiti

On our final day in Cairo, we felt it was important to make one last trip to Tahrir Square, the place that during the last three days, we had spent so much time, made many friends, and found inspiration.

At the time we arrived, none of our familiar friends were there. But as we walked through the Square, a man yelled, “Sheryll!” We didn't exactly know who this man was, but it became clear that we had made our mark on Tahrir Square, as the two American filmmakers and journalists who had come to obtain a more accurate, and human perspective, of the activity there. We believe that over the course of four days, we left behind something – a hope that Americans and Egyptians could unite, in terms of support, assistance, and brotherhood, in advocating for a better future for the Middle East.

We made these strong connections because we insisted we were there to capture the human side of the revolutionary movements – to spend time and foster relationships while producing a documentary. Countless times, we explained to people, “We are not the media.” And several times, we resisted people's attempts to introduce us to the “Media Tent” set up in Tahrir Square, for fear of our own misrepresentation.

Sheryll Talks with the Director of Media at Tahrir Square

We walked around a bit more, and another man approached us. After brief introductions, he revealed his identity as the Director of the Media Tent. “I've been waiting to meet you,” he said.

For over an hour, we sat in Tahrir Square and had the most pleasant conversation with him, making us wish that we had met him earlier. He, a well-traveled diplomat, had taken some time off and had been spending the last month as a sit-in advocate, camping under a tent in Tahrir Square. Our interaction with him made it clear that our decision to come back on the last day was the right decision.

The Director of the Media Tent helped us then navigate the metro system from Tahrir Square to Giza, where we were able to catch the Giza Pyramids at sunset. As we headed underground to the metro, we said goodbye to Tahrir Square, the place we had come to know and appreciated, the place we felt safe and loved in. However, we left with no idea that come a few days later, Tahrir Square would undergo a major transformation, sweeping our friends by storm and surprise.

On the first day of Ramadan, August 1, the Army appeared in Tahrir Square and forcibly dismantled setup, chasing all protestors out, arresting anyone who did not immediately comply, and taking down the many sit-in tents that had been established.

Sit-In Tents Before the Military Cleanse

Sheryll was able to reach one of our sources who we had spent time with in the Square. “We're back to Square One,” our source said.

“Who is left in Tahrir Square?” Sheryll asked.

Our source replied, “Nobody.”

“Nobody is sitting in Tahrir Square. Everybody at the sit-in was dismantled by force, all the tents were cleared, and the Army is sitting in the Square – literally.”

The changes in Tahrir Square first left us in disbelief. Our first feelings were that peaceful, warm-hearted protestors fighting for a better future for their country have been stifled.

But we must remember the conviction and commitment of our friends. It was that determination and resilience that we admired. They may, for the time being, have had their Square taken away, but their drive remains. They will undoubtedly continue to advocate for reform in Egypt.

A Lively Tahrir Square

Our source said, “People are in disbelief. But they should not be. They should attend to the situation and play the game. It's not [the Army's] square. It's a public square. Let them have their fun with it. Let's rest for a couple weeks. We'll be back.”

Some of our friends are currently working out of an office, keeping detailed lists of all of Tahrir's thousands of advocates, updating individuals' statuses each minute. This ensures the best possible accountability for everyone – who is safe, who has been arrested, who has been detained, and who has been interrogated. A close network of people within the Square – all communicating from different points across greater Cairo – allows this major undertaking to be feasible. This is indeed a strong community.

Our friends, and all the familiar faces in Tahrir Square, are in our thoughts. We hope that they are safe, in the company of their families, but we know that some of the people we met may currently be detained. We wish our brothers and sisters the very best sentiments from the bottom of our hearts. We wish a warm celebration of Ramadan to our friends and their families, we hope that they get the rest they deserve during this holiday month, and meanwhile, we rest just a bit easier knowing that though their Square may be occupied for now, their spirit remains as strong as ever.

Egypt - Day 3

2011-08-03T11:44:00.001-04:00

Tahrir Square

Sheryll Talks with Young Protesters

By the time we returned to Tahrir Square for the third consecutive day, we felt that we belonged. We were part of this community. Now, we were warmly greeted by the entire volunteer security team. Everyone shook Sheryll's hands, and the boys came up to hug Sean. When embracing Sean, some of the men extended a kiss on each cheek, a traditionally endearing way that men greet each other through the Middle East. We were hanging out at first, so Sheryll whimsically pulled out her American hackysack. In Tahrir Square, Sheryll kicked around the hackysack with several of the guys. Everyone had a great time.

Brian Wright

We were waiting to meet Brian, a young American who, after studying abroad in Egypt during college, decided to move back to Egypt permanently. For the past four years, Brian had been enjoying life in Cairo, definitely a change of pace from the small town in Western Texas where he was raised. Brian shed some light on the fears that people in his hometown expressed, when they found out he was relocating to the Middle East. “Don't trust them,” “They hate Americans,” “Watch out for those Muslims,” were some of the sentiments Brian described. Brian explained how he has always been well-respected, and felt perfectly integrated, within Egypt. His description of his experience living in Egypt served as powerful testimony to combat the stereotypes and stigmas that he felt in his community, and that we have felt in our communities. Brian again made the important distinction that in the Middle East, people are wise enough to separate American politics from the American people. If someone does not agree with American politics, or does not like the American government, that often does not reflect on how they treat an American individual.

Islam Assists with Directing and Translating Interviews

Our liaison and friend, Islam, helped us facilitate interviews with men and women of various ages – anywhere from 15 to 50 years old – within the square. Some spoke English, and others spoke Egyptian Arabic.

The Nile

Push-Cart Food Vendors

The Metro

Street Corner in the Al-Matariyyah District in Cairo

As it began to get dark in Tahrir, we walked around the Nile and through a statue park, before heading onto the metro to Islam's neighborhood. There, we ate once again with his family, and then went to Islam's family cafe. For more than two hours, we smoked shisha, drank tea, shared stories and laughs, and made plans for the future. Sheryll and Sean were the only Caucasian people in the cafe, and Sheryll was the only woman present. Yet in the midst of 50 Egyptian men smoking shisha, we felt perfectly comfortable and confident in being there. We were treated with the utmost respect from all the cafe's patrons.

Pedestrian in Al-Matariyyah

Islam, one of the hardest working and dedicated people we know, suddenly began coordinating interviews on our behalf, asking some of the men in the cafe if they would like to appear in our documentary right at that moment. It was well after midnight, on a cool, breezy evening, and we set up the camera in the outdoor seating of the cafe. We made sure that the smoke from our shisha wasn't blowing into the camera's field of vision. We interviewed (in Arabic) an older gentleman formerly in the Egyptian military, and we spoke with (in English) a translator who has worked internationally. The translator gave a beautiful analysis of the peaceful nature of the Islamic religion, emphasizing that any type of violent extremism should not be associated with a religion that would never advocate killing. They are not Muslims, he asserted.

At 2 AM, Islam fed us at his home. After filling our stomachs with watermelon and feteer (a crispy, pastry-like Egyptian bread), Islam drove us all the way back to our hotel in Giza. We arrived after 3AM, only ready to catch a few hours of sleep and do it all again the next day.

Egypt - Day 2

2011-07-28T19:27:00.001-04:00

Tahrir Square, Cairo

We made our way to Tahrir Square in the early afternoon, meeting with the friends we had made the previous night. Again, we went through the security entrance that young activists had set up. The security was very polite, and in fact, apologetic. Once they finished searching our bags, they said to us, in English, “I am sorry.”

Once we gained access to the Square, we immediately met up with some of our friends from the previous day, who were excited to see us again. We remained sure to reaffirm our purpose as independent filmmakers committed to showing the humanity of the youth movements in the Middle East, as opposed to general media.

Hichem

We spoke at length with Hichem, one of the directors of the security at Tahrir Square. He explained how, soon after the revolution began, a committee of young men and women formed to ensure the safety of the square. They effectively blocked off each entrance of Tahrir Square with a men's and women's checkpoint. Out of respect, men are responsible for checking men into the square, and vice versa. Hichem admits that, since the metro is inside Tahrir Square, the sudden presence of security checkpoints may cause an inconvenience for some. However, the checkpoints still allow for the flow of car traffic outside, with a small detour. (Previously, cars could drive through Tahrir Square.) More importantly, the efforts of these young adults ensure that Tahrir Square remain a weapon and drug free zone. “We confiscate a box of weapons each day,” Hichem said, further explaining that the weapons are generally small sticks and small knives. When drugs are found, “We destroy the drugs right in front of the gate, so that everyone can see, and no one can accuse us of taking the drugs for ourselves.”

Dina Abdallah

We sat in the shade and hung out with our friends outside the security gate until our liaison, Islam, arrived. Islam was one of the young adults that we had met with Mohamed the previous evening. Almost instantly, we bonded with Islam, whose true generosity immediately shined. He walked with us through the square, where we soon became popular. People in the square began to ask us what we were doing, and we happily told them. A young girl asked if she could be interviewed. As she was describing her experiences during the revolution, a crowd gathered around the camera, until about twenty-five Egyptians were standing around, all genuinely interested in what we were doing. We spent almost an hour talking to more people who wanted to provide commentary.

During that time, Mohamed's wife and our friend, Donna, met us in the square and joined us for the day.

Islam then took us to the sit-in tents, where we laid down and relaxed. We talked with the people who had been staying in the tent for weeks, expressing their solidarity for democracy in Egypt. They were very happy to welcome us into their space, and offered us tea. We took our shoes off before entering the interior of the tent, since they often pray inside. On one of the tent's walls was a poster, honoring the young men who had died fighting for their country in the revolution. On the back wall of the tent was a large Egyptian flag.

Within minutes of us relaxing and taking a break from the mid-afternoon North African heat, we heard marching and yelling coming from the main quarter of the square. We instinctively got up, put our shoes back on, and grabbed the camera equipment. Hundreds, if not over a thousand people, were marching the square. With Islam by our side, we felt comfortable turning the camera on and going right up to the march. When the protestors saw the camera, near fifty of them came close to Sheryll and began to yell “horreyah” the Arabic word for “freedom” into the camera.

Just a few meters away, Sean was snapping photos, with Donna alongside. A group of four Egyptians began to yell at him, telling him he could not take photos. Sean immediately consulted Islam, who came over to appease the situation. This very small minority of Egyptians feared Sean's photo presence in the square. They explained to Islam that they thought we were brought to the square on behalf of the Egyptian police, to suppress the movement. They possessed a deep rooted fear that our cameras were harmful to the movement, and even after Islam's honest explanation of who we were. Islam, along with a Saudi Arabian man that we'd literally met three minutes before in the middle of the demonstration, shuffled us away from them, and they did not pursue us any further.

As the march carried on outside the square, we decided to shift gears. Islam invited us to dinner at his family's home. We were warmly greeted by Islam's mother and sister, Amira, who prepared a home-cooked Egyptian meal for us. Similar to our time with Maral's family in Jordan, we once again felt embraced by family. With our constant travels and many nights spent in hotels, it was relaxing and therapeutic to be embraced by family. Islam gave Sean comfortable pajamas to change into, and Amira did the same for Sheryll. Amira, a young, independent, 30-year old pharmaceutical representative (who had recently worked for Pfizer), was the perfect company, and along with Islam, translated a conversation between us and Islam's mother. After enjoying molokheya, mashi, and other Egyptian delights, we snacked on watermelon and drank Turkish coffee. Through the night, we laughed and shared stories, and by the end of the night, felt we'd known Islam's family for a long time.

Sean was exhausted, and Islam offered Sean the extra bed to sleep in. Meanwhile, Islam and Sheryll went exploring through the streets of his neighborhood, where young girls, not older than six or seven years old, ran up to say hello. The young girls were excited to hang out with the older crowd. Sheryll remarked that the girls swarmed around Islam like “he was Justin Bieber,” and noted that Islam was the “unofficial mayor of the neighborhood.” Throughout the streets, Islam greeted everyone, and clearly is well-respected in his community.

After that first day, we knew that we had bonded with the perfect friend and a loving family, and we made plans to get together again the next day.

Egypt - Day 1

2011-07-26T10:42:00.000-04:00

Nightlife at The Nile River, Cairo

When we arrived in Cairo, we were not exactly sure how we were going to engage protestors in Tahrir Square or what we were going to ask them. Even though we reasoned people would be friendly, there was a slight subconscious apprehension toward approaching people in the square. We were not worried about danger, but rather, how we would connect with our peers there.

Our friend, Mohamed, a prominent general practice lawyer in Cairo, picked us up from our hotel. We were under the impression we were headed to his home for dinner. Much to our surprise, he started driving us around Giza, then Cairo, and before we knew it, we were parked in front of Tahrir Square.“Do you have your passports?” Mohamed asked us.We looked at each other. We thought we were going to family dinner. We were empty-handed. “I'll try to get you in,” he said.

We approached an informal entrance, where there was a crowd of men standing in one area, and a crowd of women standing in another. Mohamed showed his bar license, and then, a young Egyptian started to pat Sean down. At first, Sean didn't know what was going on, but then the Egyptian smiled and said, “For your safety.” Sean obliged. Meanwhile, Sheryll was patted down by the group of girls standing nearby. As soon as we arrived, someone tried to point Sheryll to the media tent. “We are not the media,” Sheryll explained.

Immediately after Mohamed explained who we were, and Sheryll explained that our film seeks to show aspects of the youth movement not explored by traditional media, we were immediately embraced and received the kindest of hospitality. Never before in either of our lives did we expect to be served Turkish coffee in the middle of a protest area. Juiceboxes of guava juice soon followed. Within minutes, we began to just casually chat with some of the young people standing near the gate. We immediately made friends, swapped phone numbers, obtained Facebook information, and agreed to meet again tomorrow.

It was the perfect introduction. We didn't come with our cameras flashing. We didn't come as media. We came as young people, ready to genuinely engage with other young people. We explained that we arrived with the backing of the Moving Picture Institute, an American non-profit organization that promotes freedom through film. We came with a trusted Egyptian professional, who edified our purpose being there. Not once that night did we obtain a single picture or a single second of video. And for all of that, we were respected.

Once we left Tahrir Square, Mohamed took us through Cairo's district of Zamalek. The neighborhood produced a deep emotional response out of Sean, who spent a month there in January, leaving just three days before the revolution. The streets appeared quiet and peaceful in the early evening, as Sean's eyes widened at the sight of his old stomping grounds. We then enjoyed some shisha and tea near the Nile. “It's the most relaxed I've seen you,” Sheryll told Sean. Sean noted that Sheryll seemed equally relaxed. Egypt has that feeling. People are just trying their best to survive, everyone is friendly, conversation is light, and smiles are abundant.

We ended our night back in the Giza district, spending time in the newly constructed, upscale Mall of Arabia. People from all over the Middle East were walking around the mall, and Mohamed had a lengthy conversation with the Saudi Arabian couple sitting next to us in the Gloria Jean's Coffee, as we sipped on iced mocha drinks. Mohamed's wife, Donna, joined us, and we went to dinner.

Near almost 2 AM, we arrived back at our hotel, ready to gear up for the next day. We thank Mohamed and Donna for providing us so much opportunity, driving us around Giza and Cairo, and making us feel comfortable and prepared to spend valuable time in Tahrir Square over the coming days.

Tahrir Square, Cairo

Lebanon - Days 2 & 3

2011-07-25T09:24:00.001-04:00

Coastline in Beirut

The people we met during our time in Beirut provided us keen insight on the ways that technology, culture and community are thriving in the Middle East, and shaping change in the Middle East moving forward.

Christine Codsi, Co-Owner of Tawlet

We made our way to Tawlet (http://www.tawlet.com), a well-known Beirut restaurant featured on a 2010 episode of Anthony Bourdain's Travel Channel series, No Reservations. We spoke with some of the restaurant's chefs, vendors, and business partners. Talwet's business model is groundbreaking. Tawlet, a zero-waste restaurant, has established partnerships with dozens of producers and farmers across Lebanon, and all the restaurant's produce comes exclusively from these partnerships. By working with these vendors, Tawlet supports the local growers and farmers, stimulating the local economy, helping families and individuals. In addition, Tawlet features different chefs each day, and some of the producers from rural Lebanon travel to Beirut to cook for the restaurant on occasion, giving the menu a diverse array of homemade Lebanese food from day to day.

Interview with Local Chefs and Farmers

Across the street from Tawlet, we visited a location called Karaj. An innovative spot, Karaj is an old Lebanese home, now converted into a productive office with immaculate design. It is a location where young artists, engineers, and urban designers – many fresh out of college - rent workspace, optimally mixing technology and art. The renters have become friends, and as innovators and entrepreneurs in Beirut, they are always sharing ideas. They have a common kitchen, conference room, balcony, and other amenities that foster creativity and progress.

Interview with Bassam

There, we interviewed Bussam, a 24-year old graduate of AUB, who talked with us about his work as a mechanical engineer and teacher at the American University of Beirut. Bussam is a young adult, eager to generate global progress out of Lebanon. He suggested that the key factor necessary for the youth generation in the Middle East is “motivation” - similar to the motivation we found at Karaj. He indicated that young adults need to be motivated to make progress and change in the future, and that if that motivation can be attained, the Middle East can undoubtedly become a world innovator.

He also talked about the changing ways that technology are giving young people a chance to become advocates. He referred to social media, online communication, and blogs as a form of “democracy” for young adults in the Middle East, a place where they can exhibit freedom of speech. Bussam talked about a blog that he has started, that he hopes his students will begin to read and discuss.

With a taste of democracy, many are finding ways to express themselves and their desires, beyond the computer. We talked to Bussam about Sherif, the street artist we'd interviewed the previous day. Little did we know, Sherif had recently become part of the Karaj family. Bussam and Sherif did not know each other for long, but Bussam was familiar with his “Lebanon Would Be Better If...” movement. “He is brilliant,” Bussam remarked. “I knew about his work before I met him,” he said, indicating that the movement was successful in making a statement across Beirut.

“Social media is the new media,” Bussam profoundly mentioned, indicating that the recent changes in technology have made a major impact on the youth generation throughout the Middle East. Based on the young people we spoke to in Beirut, social media, art, and technology are going to be key factors in the next generation's movement to achieve progress.

Lebanon - Day 1

2011-07-20T16:13:00.001-04:00

Side Street in the Hamra District

Meredith Danberg-Ficarelli and Sean Campbell

Sheryll Interviews Artist Sherif Maktabi

We arrived in Beirut's Hamra district at night, and upon putting our items down in the apartment we rented, we called our friend, Meredith Danberg-Ficarelli. Twenty minutes later, the three of us were headed to a nearby bar. Beirut immediately appeared different from any other Middle East experience we had previously. The hijab was suddenly the vast minority, and bars appeared on every street. We visited a bar that Meredith frequented. Several Lebanese beers later, Meredith had briefed us on all that we needed to know about Beirut, based on the past two months she has been here studying at the American University of Beirut (AUB). In addition, she recommended people to interview and places to visit for the documentary, and by the end of the night, we'd successfully scheduled intriguing people and locations to film. We went to bed, feeling positive about the prospects of the next 72 hours that we'd be in Beirut.As Meredith had warned us the previous evening, the early morning sounds of construction acted as our alarm clock on our first morning, representing the ubiquitous construction that has been taking place across Beirut. We headed outside and quickly realized the climate was a bit different from the mild heat of Amman. Now, in the midst of humidity, we suddenly made it a priority to locate water. Per the usual, we were behind on sleep a bit, and so after a mandatory water stop, we found the cafe, DePrague, that Meredith had recommended the night before.

At noon, our first Meredith-facilitated filming took place. It was also our first interaction with a young person involved in civil advocacy in the Middle East. Though Lebanon has not been a primary mover and shaker in the Arab Spring, advocacy – particularly youth advocacy – is visible. Sheryll was immediately intrigued by our film subject's particular method of advocacy – street art.

At 20 years old, Sherif Maktabi has created a movement, with a public art installation. At a wall on a side street in Hamra, Sherif transformed the wall into an interactive mural, headed by large letters reading, “Lebanon Would Be Better If...”. Then, dozens of blank lines follow, and citizens take chalk and write their solution (or grievance) that could make Lebanon a better place to be.

Artist Sherif Maktabi

We spoke to Alex, who owns and operates a men's clothing store adjacent to the wall. While Sheryll filmed Sherif, Alex and Sean conversed about the reception of the wall. Most people have been very supportive, overall. Alex, an older gentlemen, was completely in favor of the wall, and keeps a close eye from his store. Others became supportive once they realized Sherif's intentions. Georgette, an elder woman who has long sold Chicklets in front of the wall, was initially opposed to sharing her space with Sherif. However, once she realized what Sherif was doing, her perspective shifted, and Georgette is now the protector of the wall. At the end of filming, with Georgette watching over us, Alex, Sean and Sheryll each took chalk (that Alex keeps in his store) and wrote a solution to improve Lebanon.

Sherif has taken action to raise awareness and give people a chance to voice their opinions and concerns in Lebanon. His efforts have clearly moved members of the community from various generations. Sherif was incredibly grateful of our interest in filming him. Specifically, Sherif and Sheryll bonded over their interests in public art installations for social consciousness. As they were sharing, Sheryll showed Sherif a picture of her mother. Sherif replied, “Your mother did a great job.”

Feel free to check out Sherif by following his Twitter @SherifMango or website, http://www.lebanonbetter.com.

Jordan - Day 3

2011-07-20T03:46:00.000-04:00

Sean speaks with AMIDEAST Yemen Director Edward Prados

We eased into the day and relaxed, before meeting with Edward Prados, Director of AMIDEAST Yemen. AMIDEAST is a leading American non-profit organization engaged in international education, training and development activities in the Middle East and North Africa. Edward discussed his experiences being an American living in the Middle East for much of his life, and reflected on the various stereotypes that sometimes exist toward the Middle East. Based on his experiences, he joked, “The most dangerous thing about the Middle East is the traffic.” Edward was keen to note that stereotypes do exist on both sides, and that America is also misrepresented at times in the Middle East. There are people who see American movies with graphic sex and violence, and suddenly associate that with the common lifestyle of America. It reminded Sean of a conversation he once had with a young girl in Tunisia, who mistakenly believed you couldn't walk down the streets of New York City without meeting gunpoint, because she'd seen some action movies – taken out of context – that portrayed Americans that way. Edward noted that it will continue to be important for young people in the Middle East to come to America, and vice versa, so it can become clear that media and reality are two very separate factions.

Immediately following the interview, our friend Maral picked us up at our hotel. We'd never met Maral before – we were put in touch with Maral by a friend back in the United States. Maral is an Armenian Christian, representing an important minority population in Jordan. Immediately, we felt the same Jordanian hospitality we'd experienced with Abdullah and Suha the previous day. Maral took us to a cafe overlooking all of downtown Amman, and we treated ourselves to Maral's favorite juice, a blend of apple, kiwi and mint. Maral provided us several dinner options, the last of which was Armenian food at her house. We instantly looked at each other, and we knew – Armenian food in a family setting sounded like the ideal way to spend our last night in Amman.

Maral took us to her beautiful, custom-built home in a quieter, newly developed, pseudo-suburban section of Amman. After six days in Stockholm and three days in Amman, we needed serenity. Maral and her family provided that for us. As we walked through the front doors, we were warmly greeted by her father. A few minutes later, her mother and two brothers, Vartan and Vahram, Joined us. The rest of the night felt effortless. We suddenly felt a relieving presence, and Sean articulated it. “It's nice to be in a home.” After lots of traveling, hotels, flights, and a busy film schedule, it was almost necessary for our mental health to be in the company of a warm and loving family that embraced us wholeheartedly. It was nice to integrate ourselves in the family unit. Maral, a young, independent woman with an MBA working for the largest pharmaceutical company in Jordan, talked about living at home. She said that in Jordan, it is common for children to live with their parents until they get married, and more importantly, that she enjoys living at home and spending time with her family. After spending a night with Maral's family, we couldn't agree more.

Sheryll Takes a Photo of the Amman Skyline from Maral's Roof

We went to her roof, which overlooked the entire city of Amman that we'd fallen in love with. It was silent, and we felt a sense of internal comfort, as the light breeze faded over us. We then feasted on various types of Armenian pizza, and drank Italian wine. We played with the family dog, fed the parrots that sat in their cage outside, and talked about how the garden cats keep the stray cats from coming onto the property. After dinner, we drank tea and ate melon and pastries. For hours, until well past midnight, we all sat on the couch, told stories, laughed, and talked about our lives. Plans for the future were made – Vahram and Sheryll will go out dancing the next time we're all in Jordan again, we will all attend Dead Sea concerts, we'll visit Petra, we will eat well, and drink Jordanian wine.

Amman, Jordan

We didn't want to leave, as show after show on the National Geographic Abu Dhabi Channel played in the background. When it was close to 1 AM, we realized we all had to be awake the next morning. Maral had to tend to work, and we had to pack to head to Beirut. We didn't say “Goodbye,” instead, we said, “See you soon.”

(from L to R: Vartan, Sean, Vahram, Maral)

Jordan - Day 2

2011-07-18T06:53:00.000-04:00

At 9AM, we met a young Jordanian couple, Abdullah and Suha. They were newlyweds – recently married 10 months ago. It was clear from the start that they were a young couple in love, and that was certainly inspiring. Over the course of the day, we enjoyed glimpses of their story – pointing out some of the restaurants Abdullah used to take Suha when they were dating, and recalling the time when their mothers became friendly, which served as an important “icebreaker” for when Abdullah asked Suha's father for her hand in marriage. Warm traditions and family values are important to Abdullah and Suha, who talked at length about the closeness within their families. Abdullah acknowledged that it is his grandmother, the family materfamilias, who ensures that the family remains close and keeps in touch frequently. The mother holds much of the power in the family, and is deeply respected by the other members. We continued to appreciate the importance of the close nuclear family here in Jordan, many examples of which we'd seen at the 7^th Circle the evening before.

Overlooking Old Amman at The Books Cafe

Abdullah and Suha took us to Rainbow Street, near the 1st Circle, where we enjoyed falafel at the well-known establishment El Quds. Our tasty falafel was served on a flatbread, almost like a panini, which was something we had never previously associated with falafel. We sat on the benches outside the restaurant and enjoyed the morning sun on this quiet street, that is known for becoming packed with pedestrians at night.

After a short walk on Rainbow Street, culminating with breathtaking views of Old Amman from the outdoor patio of Books Cafe (where we drank freshly squeezed orange juice), we headed to King Abdullah II Mosque.

Across the street from the mosque sat a Coptic church. On opposite sides of the streets, two varying religious edifices sat, in peace, enjoying the morning breeze. We entered the mosque, and Abdullah taught us how to pray, facing Mecca. The interior of the mosque was quiet and cool, and certainly the ideal location for us to take deep breaths and reflect. We felt privileged to be inside the mosque, learning more about Islamic culture and sharing in the religion.“We stand close together, sometimes too close,” Abdullah joked.

Covering before entering King Abdullah II Mosque

He explained that everyone prays together, the poor and the rich, so that within the mosque, there is no disparity between the rich and the poor.

We talked about how the King of Jordan often comes to the King Abdullah II Mosque to pray. “He is a people's King,” Abdullah told us. The King is never hesitant to talk to the people, even when his bodyguards are protecting him. In the mosque, he prays with the people. During Ramadan, he brings those facing poverty into the mosque and provides them food. At times, the King goes “undercover” and visits people, to get an honest and non-biased impression of how the country is running. The Queen is known for visiting hospitals and being a part of many programs that promote social services.

Inside King Abdullah II Mosque

Based on this, we received the feeling that there is an overall approval of the monarchy. The Arab Spring has seemingly had minimal impact on Jordanian life. On our first day here, we received news that police violently broke up a small protest, injuring 15 people. We were out on the streets of Amman that same Friday, and never would have known this happened. When Sean asked our hotel clerk about the incident that night, he indicated that there was no reason to feel threatened. In our extensive time with Abdullah and Suha, the previous day's incident never came up in conversation. Seemingly, there were just more pressing – and positive – things to discuss about Jordan.

Abdullah and Sheryll Praying

Following our spiritual moments at the mosque, Abdullah then took Sean for a haircut. It was a men's barber shop, and the men there had no problem with us filming unannounced. They served us tea and treated us with the utmost hospitality. When they asked Sean what kind of haircut he would like, he indicated that he would like to look like Abdullah, with slicked-back hair. Soon, Sean's hair transformation began. Raed, the hairdresser, shampooed Sean's hair, giving Sean a choice of which shampoo he would like. (Pantene it was!) Following the shampooing, intricate scissoring of Sean's shaggy hair began.

Sean's Haircut

After the haircut, which included pauses for tea, Raed lathered Sean up with shaving cream and began to shave him with a freshly sterilized straight-edge blade. Once the shaving process was complete, Raed voluntarily gave Sean a facial mask. Army green Dead Sea mud covered Sean's face, until it froze into a solid mask, so solid that laughing hurt Sean's facial muscles. Sean sat with the mask for over 20 minutes, as Raed cut another boy's hair in the interim. After washing the mask off, Raed shampooed Sean's hair once again, and gelled his hair back to look like Abdullah's. The whole process took close to two hours, and cost a total of 10 Jordanian Dinars (14 US Dollars).

As we walked the overpass across the busy highway to get back to our car, I asked Abdullah if I could pass for Jordanian. He laughed skeptically. “I'm getting there,” I jokingly replied.

We headed back to the hotel, where we filmed Abdullah and Suha in the conference room. We filmed Suha talking about hijab, and teaching Sheryll how to properly wrap her scarf. We discussed the many different styles of hijab, and the fashion of hijab. Sean told them they were “hijab couture,” which provided us all a light-hearted laugh.

Suha told us about her decision to wear the hijab. Now in adulthood, she only decided to wear hijab a few years ago, indicating that previously, she didn't fully grasp the meaning of its representation. But when she reached a point in her life where she truly understood its meaning within Islamic culture and religion, she decided she was ready. “I'm happy with my decision,” she said.

Abdullah and Suha were incredibly generous and patient throughout the day. They volunteered their entire day – from 9 AM to 4:30 PM – being of great help – and great company – to us. We sincerely thank them from the bottom of our hearts, and we are grateful to have genuine friends in Jordan. Our day with them was something we will never forget. When we think of the day they showed us in Amman, we will always remember Abdullah's innocent laugh and Suha's gentle smile.

The Lovely Couple, Abdullah and Suha

Abdullah, a former Fulbright student now returning to the US to earn his Ph.D., said, “In America, I met some of the nicest people. This is my way of giving back for what Americans did for me.” We told Abdullah that when he comes to the United States again next month, we will be ready to embrace him with the same hospitality he and Suha did for us. We are certainly looking forward to a lovely reunion back in the United States.

Jordan - Day 1

2011-07-16T10:49:00.000-04:00

We were warmly greeted by our taxi driver taking us to our hotel. “Welcome to Jordan,” he said. “Chokran,” we replied. Sean added, “This is our first time in Jordan.” We told him we were from New York.

After sleeping off the jet lag we were still carrying around, we walked around the 7^th Circle in Amman. Since it was Friday, a religious day, there were only a few people on the streets. Bright sun filled the idyllic blue skies, complemented by a comforting, light breeze. A peaceful quiet surrounded us. Down the street from our hotel, we found a GAP, and next door, a Starbucks, where we bought much-needed coffee and freshly squeezed orange juice. There, we bumped into American university students working on behalf of AMIDEAST Jordan.

After walking around, we walked into a store selling headscarves. There, two Jordanian men showed Sheryll how to wrap a headscarf, and helped pick out two scarves that would nicely juxtapose Sheryll's skin tone and eye color. The men politely told her, “You look beautiful. Always wear it, please.”

Sean and Sheryll, who was now wearing hijab, went for dinner and tea in the 7^th Circle. During tea, we enjoyed watching sunset, as hundreds of families began to fill into the circle and enjoy a recreational weekend evening. Arabic music played in the background. Some kids kicked their soccer ball, while others played in the arcade. Men and women – both with and without hijab – smoked shisha in the cafes. Men who were friends were walking down the street holding hands, and women hugged each other as they walked. Closeness, community and family now filled the streets that were quiet a few hours prior. We spent the next two hours filming in the bustling circle, obtaining different views of family-oriented Jordanian nightlife. At one point in the evening, Sheryll said to Sean, “This feels no different from South Paterson, New Jersey. I've been getting falafel there for ten years.” We felt comfortable and welcome in our new environment.

Ångestparaden / Anxiety Parade - Stockholm, Sweden (12 Jul, 2011)

2011-07-16T01:23:00.002-04:00

Falling Awake Productions is the official multimedia firm responsible for generating promotional and documentary work for the International Center for Clubhouse Development (ICCD). ICCD is a global resource that helps communities across the world create and maintain Clubhouses, which are community centers that give people with mental illness hope and opportunities to reach their full potential. Fountain House Stockholm, led by Director Bjorn Asplund, hosted the I16 International Conference, where Clubhouse members and staff from over 25 countries attended.

Sheryll Franko, Executive Director of Falling Awake Productions, filmed many members of clubhouses, whose stories provide powerful testimony that ICCD's community clubhouse model is effective in helping those facing mental illness heal and be strong, productive members of society. The stories heard from members all across the world, transcending through diverse cultures and regions, further indicate that mental health is a universal aspect of the human experience, and that the human connection is a crucial component in healing.

Sheryll had the distinct privilege of filming Fountain House Stockholm Clubhouse Member, Lasse, each day throughout the conference. Lasse's willingness to share his personal experiences with mental illness, discuss how Fountain House facilitated his recovery, and enjoy himself in the company of a tolerant and supportive community, proves a powerful story that ICCD can use to showcase their efforts and obtain additional funding to continue to execute their mission.

On 12 July, Fountain House Stockholm paved uncharted territory by hosting “Angestparaden”, or “Anxiety Parade”, the first ever parade devoted to raise awareness about mental illness. Over 1,000 mental health advocates and consumers from across the world marched the streets of Stockholm. As young people shouted “One in Four, All for One” from the parade floats, those on the streets looked on with a somber tone, some shocked by the coffin parade float that read the Swedish statistic, “1500 people die of suicide each year.”

Youth advocacy was a hot-button topic at the IS 16 conference. Another Stockholm-based Clubhouse, Fountain House Skondal, is the first ICCD Clubhouse specifically for young adults. Sheryll followed Lina, Director of the Clubhouse, as well as two young members, Paivi and Johanna, who addressed the benefits of establishing youth Clubhouses.

Sean Campbell, professional youth mental health advocate, attended the IS 16 conference, and assisted Falling Awake Productions throughout the conference. In doing so, Sean shared his unique involvement in mental health with ICCD staff and members from across the world. Sean felt so welcomed and appreciated by the ICCD community, and soon was a part of many initiatives. Sean, along with his friend Mark, were two of the young adults on the parade float, holding signs and shouting “One in Four, All for One”. (Meanwhile, Sheryll was filming on the float, with a birds' eye view of the parade and onlookers.)

Together, Sean and Sheryll also had key conversations with directors from many different Clubhouses, most notably the Cape Town, South Africa Clubhouse and the Calcutta, India, Clubhouse. Sheryll and Sean look forward to continuing to work with ICCD to provide promotional and fundraising services, as well as community mental health advocacy, at clubhouses across the world, particularly youth-based Clubhouses and Clubhouses in developing countries.

Sheryll and Sean made life-long friends at the IS 16 Conference, and from the bottom of our hearts, we would like to thank Bjorn Asplund for his warmth and hospitality in hosting the conference, Lasse for being the most cooperative and genuine film subjects Sheryll could have ever asked for, and all those in the city of Stockholm who made our time there truly memorable and life-changing.

"Just Kickin' It" - A New Art Installation by Artist Sheryll Franko

2011-07-11T18:50:00.000-04:00

Artist Sheryll Franko will be launching her first installment of her new installation "Just Kickin' It," (JKI) in Stockholm, Sweden on July 13, 2011 at 17:00 at Medborgarplasten. JKI is an ongoing series of public art installations that examines human engagement in open, public spaces through non-verbal communication via the recreational medium of "hackysack."

Sheryll initiates this global experiment by traveling to popular open public spaces across the world and kicking a hackysack in front of a camera. The camera's internal time code documents the length of time that passes until spectators begin to join her in the game. JKI displays the openness and willingness of people - across cultures and regions - to connect and engage one another through non-verbal communication and stress-free, recreational fun.

New Website designed for NYC Actress, Marnie Suscreba

2011-07-06T13:44:00.000-04:00

Falling Awake Productions has a long-standing relationship with the NJ and NYC acting community. We produce reels, slates and websites custom designed to fit your personality, budget and target audience.

www.marniesuscreba.com

Falling Awake Productions heads to Stockholm, Sweden

2011-06-19T22:04:00.000-04:00

Falling Awake Productions is happy to announce it's partnership with The Int'l Center For Clubhouse Development (ICCD). Members of our team will be headed to Stockholm, Sweden July 9-14 to film their 16th International Seminar (16IS). In 2009, our team was invited to film the 15IS in St. Pete Beach, Florida. We are greatly looking forward to documenting an exciting week and to making many more friends :)

Find our more about 16IS and ICCD

Moving Picture Institute Sponsors a Falling Awake Productions Film

2011-06-16T13:56:00.000-04:00

The Moving Picture Institute (MPI) honored Falling Awake's Executive Director, Sheryll Franko as a Film Fellow with their organization. Sheryll, along with writer, public speaker and global mental health advocate, Sean Campbell will visit various North African and Middle Eastern countries with the support of MPI during the summer of 2011 in an effort to produce a short documentary that promotes peace through cross-cultural communication.

photo courtesy of http://www.mapesburyclinic.org.uk/

Two Worlds, One Goal (synopsis)

Two Worlds, One Goal is a short documentary that seeks to change the perspectives of Islamic life often misrepresented by the Western media, providing Islamic people with the opportunity to showcase their religion and lifestyle from a more accurate and positive lens. By expressing the tenets of traditional Islamic life, such as peace, charity and hospitality, and correcting common misconceptions, like the myth that all Islamic people are terrorists who would like to see an end to Western life, Two Worlds, One Goal seeks to combat the various stereotypes and stigmas that result from a lack of awareness and understanding about Islamic life. These stereotypes and misconceptions hinder crucial cross-cultural communication between the Western and Islamic worlds. Yet cross-cultural dialogue is precisely what needs to take place to promote global peace and reduce international terrorism. Furthermore, Two Worlds, One Goal shows how this cross-cultural dialogue is particularly essential in 2011, based on the civil uprisings taking place throughout North Africa and the Middle East. With weakened governments, populations are even more susceptible to the spread of extremism, and cross-cultural communication is essential now, more than ever.

New Website Designed for NYC-based Artist, Sara Axelrod

2011-05-25T18:40:00.000-04:00

The latest website to come from the Falling Awake lab...

www.saraaxelrod.com

Ad Hoc London + Dv8 Fashion Show

2011-04-12T12:23:00.000-04:00

London-based presenter Aurora Bankhead attended the Ad Hoc London + Dv8 fashion show and party to report back on sparkles, glitter and the latest trends in Chelsea and Fulham. Edited by Falling Awake Productions.

John Turturro & Falling Awake Productions

2011-03-27T10:52:00.002-04:00

John Turturro was in the studio with our team and Falling Awake's Director Sheryll Franko on March 24th to record the trailer narration for the upcoming documentary How to Touch a Hot Stove.

www.hotstovefilm.com

The Second Avenue Dance Co. & Sheryll Franko

2011-03-05T22:03:00.001-05:00

New York, NY: Choreographed by Claire Adams, members of The Second Avenue Dance Company performed to audio from artist Sheryll Franko's mixed media installation, I'll Get Back to You as Soon as I Can... The sound scape is comprised of the artist's personal incoming voicemail messages saved over a decade. The piece was performed at NYU Tisch School of the Arts on March 3-4, 2011.

Performed by Austin Diaz, Brighid Greene, Dania Nunez, Samantha Siegel & Samuel Swanton

This Weekend: 2nd Avenue Dance Company w. Artist Sheryll Franko at NYU

2011-02-28T13:15:00.000-05:00

Artist Sheryll Franko joins with The Second Avenue Dance Company for a series of performances this weekend. As part of the repertoire performance, members of the company will perform to audio from the artist's installation “I'll Get Back to You as Soon as I Can...”

“I’ll Get Back to You as Soon as I Can...”

In the making for more than a decade, I’ll Get Back to You as Soon as I Can... is a sound collection of the artist's archived incoming analog and digital voicemail recordings. The piece reveals the emotional history of a girl's transformation into womanhood amidst societal and technological changes and further reveals the negotiation of these changes and the hope for a merging of thought and feeling, new and old. More importantly, the piece is an exercise in revisiting the palpable connections and sentiments that predate Wi-Fi and an investigation of technology’s influence on conventions of expression.

RSVP Event Only. Seating is very limited.

"How to Touch a Hot Stove" Documentary Film Site Launches

2011-02-22T22:37:00.001-05:00

Falling Awake Productions designed & launched the new site for the upcoming mental health stigma documentary film "How to Touch a Hot Stove." www.hotstovefilm.com
(directed by Sheryll Franko / narrated by John Turturro)

Fountain Gallery Shoot

2011-02-16T18:45:00.001-05:00

We had a gorgeous shoot at Fountain Gallery NYC last week highlighting one of their artists. They are featuring a new show, Out of this World from Feb 4th - March 16th. Check it out! 702 9th Ave @ 48th st.

Dr. Oliver Sacks to Appear in Falling Awake Prdctn's Mental Health Stigma Documentary

2010-12-31T14:34:00.002-05:00

Falling Awake Productions is pleased to announce the appearance of Dr. Oliver Sacks in the mental health documentary film How to Touch a Hot Stove (in-production / dir. Sheryll Franko).

How To Touch A Hot Stove seeks to revolutionize the way people think about mental health. The film examines the causes and effects of the labels and stigmas associated with mental illness. It highlights the reasons people fail to seek treatment for mental health issues, and exposes the shortcomings of mental health treatment systems. Finally, How To Touch A Hot Stove addresses why it is universally important for the well-being of society to address mental health concerns now, by investigating what society as a whole loses by not taking the steps to communicate and help those with untreated mental illness. The film includes interviews with Dr. Patch Adams, Temple Grandin, Dr. Oliver Sacks and others. Narrated by actor John Turturro.

Salon Gossip (a short docu-video)

2010-11-26T17:17:00.000-05:00

Falling Awake Productions had the pleasure of collaborating with colorist/artist/stylist Donna Vaicels, owner of Salon Gossip in Bloomfield, New Jersey as she blurred the lines between hair and canvas to combine a progression of colors and styles.

Salon Gossip from Falling Awake Productions on Vimeo.

2010 Voice Awards, Hollywood CA

2010-10-16T23:21:00.003-04:00

Director Sheryll Franko attended the 2010 Voice Awards in Hollywood this past Wednesday at Paramount Studio Theatre. Last year, her film “Crazy Enough to Care” was recognized in the documentary category. This year, Sheryll returned with her film's subject, Drew Horn, for a second year in a row to hit the red carpet, catch smiles and ask Hollywood what they are doing to support the anti-stigma movement...

BP Magazine Features Photo by Sheryll Franko (Falling Awake Productions)

2010-10-06T17:02:00.008-04:00

Sheryll Franko's photo was featured in the Fall 2010 issue of the nation-wide “BP Magazine” accompanying a feature article on Drew Horn, subject of the Falling Awake Documentary “Crazy Enough to Care.” Congratulations, Drew!

Iranian Resistance Rally at the United Nations

2010-10-01T11:57:00.000-04:00

September 23, 2010

New York, NY - On September 23, 2010 Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was invited to attend and address the General Assembly at the United Nations despite his regime's gross history of human rights violations. Outside, thousands rallied against the regime and in favor of a democratic, nuclear-free Iran. Footage by Falling Awake Productions, NYC.

Iranian Resistance Rally at the United Nations from Falling Awake Productions on Vimeo.

Director Sheryll Franko interviews Temple Grandin for documentary film

2010-08-30T16:29:00.000-04:00

In August, Director Sheryll Franko of Falling Awake Productions along with the creative team of Dr.'s Lois Oppenheim and Alice Maher were granted the opportunity to interview Temple Grandin for their upcoming documentary How to Touch a Hot Stove. This year, the HBO film Temple Grandin was nominated for 15 Emmy Awards. Temple is also recognized as one of Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People of 2010, and one of Time Magazine's 25 Heroes of 2010.

On behalf of Falling Awake Productions, we wish a big congratulations to the cast and crew of Temple Grandin.... and a very Happy Birthday to Temple :)

Temple Grandin to appear in "How to Touch a Hot Stove" documentary film

2010-08-05T17:04:00.000-04:00

Falling Awake Productions is please to announce the appearance of Temple Grandin (portrayed by Claire Danes in the HBO film of the same name) in the documentary film How to Touch a Hot Stove. This meta-documentary explores issues of mental health along with its associated stigma. (Directed by Sheryll Franko // Produced by Hot Stove Productions // Created by Dr. Alice Maher & Dr. Lois Oppenheim // Introduction by actor John Turturro)

World Premiere of Cooper Square documentary: "(Re)centering the Square"

2010-07-20T17:44:00.001-04:00

Falling Awake Productions covered the world premiere of the documentary film (Re)centering the Square at the Center for Architecture in NYC on June 22, 2010. Directed by Elba Calado of Lero Lero Productions, the film provides in-depth analysis of the newly constructed 41 Cooper Square building.

Sheryll Franko honored with NJ Governor's Ambassador Award in Entertainment & Media

2010-07-14T15:51:00.000-04:00

Falling Awake Production's creator and principal director Sheryll Franko was honored with a New Jersey Governor's Council on Mental Health Stigma Ambassador Award in the category of Entertainment & Media.

Interview w/Nobel Prize recipient Dr. Eric Kandel

2010-07-14T15:39:00.001-04:00

Film still from the interview with Nobel Prize (2000 - Medicine & Physiology) recipient Dr. Eric Kandel for the feature-length documentary How to Touch a Hot Stove. When asked if he would hire a capable, intelligent scientist diagnosed with Schizophrenia Dr. Kandel replied, "I would go out of my way to hire him." Not only one of the greatest minds of our lifetime but also one of the most compassionate souls we have ever had the pleasure of meeting.

Radio Interview on 89.9 FM - NYC for "Studio A"

2010-07-14T15:17:00.000-04:00

Host Mary Borkowski interviews Falling Awake Production's creator Sheryll Franko about her upcoming art installation "I'll Get Back to You as Soon as I Can..."

TNI-AV: Episode 1 - Soundscapes from tni-av on Vimeo.

Sheryll Franko & Falling Awake Productions Interview Dr. Patch Adams

2010-04-29T13:11:00.000-04:00

April 21, 2010 / Arlington, VA - A group of us flew down to Arlington to interview Dr. Patch Adams about his feelings regarding the stigma that surrounds mental illness for our feature length documentary How to Touch a Hot Stove. He had some interesting perspectives and was overall extremely warm and inviting.

Drew Horn of "Crazy Enough to Care" is guest on "Will it Play?"

2010-03-25T10:18:00.000-04:00

Drew Horn, subject of the Falling Awake award-winning documentary Crazy Enough to Care recently appeared on the T.V show "Will it Play?" The show interviews entrepreneurs and broadcasts weekly throughout the state of New Jersey and parts of New York City.

Drew Horn from Gary Spivak on Vimeo.

"Girl, Interrupted" Author to appear in Falling Awake Production's Documentary

2010-03-24T18:06:00.000-04:00

Girl, Interrupted author Susanna Kaysen will engage in an interview for the Falling Awake Films / Hot Stove Productions documentary "How to Touch a Hot Stove." The film follows a group of college-age individuals as they explore the stigma associated with mental illness and find ways to confront and destroy it. (currently in production)

Expodium Gallery: Utrecht, The Netherlands

2010-03-24T17:49:00.000-04:00

Utrecht, The Netherlands: Sheryll Franko + Falling Awake Productions video to appear in Expodium Gallery as part of the ADRIAN K // TRASH exhibit + installation 12 Maart - 11 april 2010 (http://www.expodium.nl/)

Drew Horn Wins Nat'l Award

2010-01-29T12:26:00.000-05:00

Drew Horn, subject of Falling Awake Productions award-winning short doc "Crazy Enough to Care" has been honored with the

"Excellence in Consumer & Family Advocacy" award by

The National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare.

A gala will be held for all award recipients this March in Disney, Florida.

Congratulations to Drew & the other award winners!

Sheryll Franko & Falling Awake Productions goes to Hollywood

2009-12-31T17:32:00.000-05:00

Sheryll Franko // Falling Awake Productions attended the 2009 Voice Awards in Hollywood, CA on October 14, 2009 with Drew Horn, subject of the documentary "Crazy Enough to Care." Her film was nominated and won alongside Law & Order SVU, Grey's Anatomy, The Mentalist, and HBO's award-winning documentary "Boy Interrupted."

The Voice Awards honors writers and producers who give voice to people with mental health problems by incorporating dignified, respectful, and accurate portrayals of people with mental illnesses into their scripts, programs, and productions.

For more information about Drew Horn & The Turn-A-Frown-Around Foundation, please visit: www.turnafrownaround.org

The NetherlandsTV News Broadcast

2009-11-18T17:47:00.000-05:00

http://www1.omropfryslan.nl/Player.aspx?t=v&fn=HEA27MEI09.wmv

Omrop Fryslân news broadcast of Falling Awake Production’s visit to The Netherlands with Drew Horn, subject of the documentary film "Crazy Enough to Care." During the visit, Drew visited nursing homes throughout the country as part of his mission to cure the world of loneliness. The visit was documented by Sheryll Franko // Falling Awake Productions. The footage will be featured in the full-length documentary “Crazy Enough to Care: Drew Horn & The Turn-A-Frown-Around Foundation.”

Note: Video streams in .wmv format

"How to Touch a Hot Stove" Press Release

2009-10-23T14:17:00.000-04:00

The documentary "How to Touch a Hot Stove"

TV Polonia & Falling Awake Productions

2009-10-17T22:08:00.000-04:00

Sheryll Franko & Falling Awake Productions collaborated with artist Adrian K to document his citywide public art installation “Trash: anycoloryoulike” (www.anycoloryoulike.biz). In this broadcast, TV Polonia highlights footage from several short videos produced for the project in New York City.

Sheryll Franko receives 2009 Voice Award for “Crazy Enough to Care”

2009-10-16T19:45:00.000-04:00

(Hollywood, CA) Sheryll Franko // Falling Awake Productions accompanied by Drew Horn of the short-documentary “Crazy Enough to Care” attended the SAMHSA Voice Awards hosted by Richard Dreyfuss on Wednesday, October 14th at the Paramount Studio Theatre in Hollywood, CA. “Crazy Enough to Care” was nominated for an honorable mention in the documentary category alongside HBO’s “Boy Interrupted.” Other honorable mentions included Law & Order: SVU, Grey’s Anatomy, and The Mentalist.

Mixed Media Group Show + NYC + Sunday, Aug 23rd

2009-08-19T22:26:00.000-04:00

Sheryll Franko & Falling Awake Productions

in collaboration with

Gianna Leo Falcon

Presents...

Sunday, August 23

3pm - 7pm

Mixed-Media Group Show

. performance . soundscape . visual art .

147 West 105th St

(b/w Amsterdam & Columbus)

1,C,B Trains

*by RSVP only*

Sheryll@FallingAwakeProductions.com

Actor John Turturro to narrate a Sheryll Franko / Falling Awake Productions Film

2009-08-15T23:21:00.000-04:00

Sheryll Franko & Falling Awake Productions were recently asked to direct and produce the upcoming documentary film "How to Touch a Hot Stove" (pre-production) to be narrated by actor John Turturro, campaign spokesperson for Changing Our Consciousness.

please visit the website for details

http://www.changingourconsciousness.org

photo courtesy of

http://www.miff.org

Sheryll Franko presents "I'll Get Back to You as Soon as I Can..."

2009-08-06T00:42:00.000-04:00

"I'll Get Back to You as Soon as I Can" is artist Sheryll Franko's latest project: a mixed-media sound installation premiering in NYC during Fall, 2009 followed by showings in London, Paris, and Amsterdam. www.fallingawakeproductions.com

Sheryll Franko & Falling Awake Productions Video Featured at NYC and LA Galleries

2009-08-05T12:48:00.000-04:00

Video by Sheryll Franko & Falling Awake Productions was featured at the Studio-X Gallery (Soho, NYC May 15-20, 2009) and the
Touch Gallery (Los Angeles, Ca June 24-July10, 2009)
as part of artist Adriank K's installation in the group show
"InDisposed: Talking Trash (about design)"

http://indisposednyc.com/

photo courtesy of

http://inhabitat.com/

to view video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7uTrQ62PnpY

2009-07-31T23:46:00.000-04:00

Sheryll Franko & Falling Awake Productions were recenly nominated for a 2009 Voice Award.

The 2009 Voice Awards ceremony will take place at Paramount Studios in Hollywood, CA, on Wednesday, October 14. The event will bring together people from the entertainment industry and mental health consumer and advocacy communities for a night that celebrates increased awareness of mental health issues and the power of recovery. http://whatadifference.samhsa.gov/voiceawards/index.html

Goodbye "Dag" to The Netherlands

2009-05-24T21:49:00.000-04:00

And so it goes. Our journey in The Netherlands came to a close yesterday and sadly we all departed ways. Didi decided to stay for a week longer with her mother and sister at the family farm she grew up on in Friesland (Fryslan). Drew left for America in the afternoon and Michael and I were Paris bound at 7am but are happy to report we made it safe and sound.

It's still difficult in retrospect to explain the different experiences we all shared on this unique trip together. However, we all gained a new perspective as to how various european countries approach healthcare, especially with respect to the elderly, mentally, and physically disabled. One nursing home visited has a full-time volunteer coordinator that ensures volunteers visit the hospital daily. They have over 200 active volunteers and most are over the age of sixty.

The response to Drew was positive everywhere we went and many people took the time to speak to us, ask questions, and share their thoughts. We also were lucky to have made a few friends along the way that we plan on staying in touch with.

When we left for this trip, we had a general idea of what our mission was. I was supposed to film and Drew was supposed to...well...be Drew. By the end of the trip, things were different. We all became active alongside Drew lifting people's spirits and introducing them to why we feel compelled to do this work. Needless to say, we all left a little different than when we arrived. In a word...wild.

Days 2 & 3 in The Netherlands

2009-05-19T22:37:00.000-04:00

Continuing this mission here in the Netherlands is both a pleasure and a responsibility . With such life, color and kindness around each corner it's easy to be distracted. Drew pointed out after the Anne Frank Huis that Anne died in Bergen-Belsen not only shortly before the liberation but also shortly after she believed she had no one. He collects more "glimlachen" with the hope that maybe one day that kind of despair will grow less and less common. The journey north from Amsterdam to Friesland has been nothing short of an adventure. Tomorrow the television station Omrop Fryslan will begin documenting our visits to nursing homes and will be filming interviews. Stay tuned and "Geev ons een glimlach" (Give us a smile)!

Day 1: Amsterdam

2009-05-17T20:47:00.000-04:00

Drew (subject, "Crazy Enough to Care") Michael, Didi, and I arrived safely in Amsterdam early Sunday morning. We've been catching "glimlachs" (smiles) all over the city and will move onto some large parks and public spaces tomorrow. Goede nacht for now :)