What would you want to see in a mermaid movie that you helped fund? (Via Indiegogo)

[MermaidAnnabella]

I'm curious. If I (or anyone for that matter, I'm currently a student filmmaker) was going to produce a mermaid movie, but needed to fundraise for it on Indiegogo, what would make you donate?




Thinking about these things in particular:




-Small Perks (what $1, $5, $10 donations get donors)

-Medium Perks (what $20-100 donations get donors)

-Large Perks (what $150-$1,000 donations get donors)

-What would you want to see in the film? Any suggestions, ideas, etc.; even if it was following the lines of a famous un-copyrighted story?

-What would make you feel comfortable in donating - ie, what about the project would make you trust it?

-Any certain actors/actresses you wish you could see? (Not A-list actors; television actors, youtubers, etc.) What if you could see yourself in the film, if you donated enough?

-For-profit or not-for-profit: what do you think would get the most campaign success? (In my case I'd just love the opportunity to film a big-budget mermaid movie. I'd personally donate any profits/proceeds to a charity dedicated to cleaning up our oceans and helping out marine animals, ie The Ocean Cleanup Project.)

[MermaidBrandie]

-Limited CGI. There's so many wonderful tail makers, get real tails. (Though I think Merbella might have had a tail used recently? In that new little mermaid?)

-A good plot. Seriously. A good plot, with a good script, and well developed characters.

Having an option for being a background character as certain donation levels would be cool but what I want out of a mermaid movie is basically just good costuming and a good script.


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[Vidia of Depths]

For example if the film was to raise awareness of some important matter (human rights, cancer stuff, mental illnesses etc.). Personally I'd do it for LGBT+ people, if the movie has a relationship of anything else than regular straight couple. Also having a trans person in it is at the same time huge source of appreciation as well as a thing that makes most people smile. Something different from 'the mores'. Also it's joyful to see hints of 'today' in it, (for example apple phone, maybe news flash to some topical discussion..) stuff like that. The actors 'n actresses are not (at least for me) a very big part of interest while choosing a movie or series.

This was also my first post in MerNetwork, hope I wasn't super unclear or idiotic. Cheerz.

[Aquos Savar]

I'm also a student filmmaker here in the Dominican Republic. If you need a good editor for your movie, contact me through PM.

As for the rewards:

A thank you note for $1.

Wallpapers for $5.

A copy of the movie for $20.

BTS footage + movie for $50.

A copy of the movie's storyboard + movie for $70

A meet and greet with the protagonist with dinner + movie for $150

Be in the film as an extra + movie for $200 (Travel and stay expenses not paid)

Be in the movie as an extra mermaid + movie for $1000 (Travel and stay expenses not paid)

[Mary Marine]

Seconding minimal CGI, I've always thought practical effects looks better (compare the original Jurassic Park to Jurassic World), so real tails like from FinFolk or Merbellas.

Diverse merfolk casting! If your plot calls for multiple mers have some plus size mers, mers of color, maybe some elderly mers too? (the old sorceress mermaid in Stephen Chow's The Mermaid was awesome).

I seem to recall reading that mermaids were an important symbol in trans culture too, so if you had a trans mer that would be something to research. But I would hesitate to make that a central part of the plot since so much LGBT media is ABOUT being queer (tragedy/exploitation porn that's all about the characters dying or suffering for being different, like Philadelphia), as opposed to a story where the conflict is unrelated (a love story where the couple have regular problems with money, work, family, but happen to be lesbians). Though it would be funny if the human character was like, "You're a beautiful mermaid and I'm just a normal high school girl, you probably don't like girls anyway..." and the mermaid is like, "Uh, why would that be an issue? The real problem is you don't know how to swim and I live in a lake." Or the mermaid confesses to secretly being a mermaid and then the human confesses to being trans, but her human love interest being trans is 100% not a Big Deal because the mermaid is confused by human gender and sex anyway.

Additionally, if you go the route of having a trans character, it is absolutely required to have a trans actor play the role. Otherwise is just reinforces the misconceptions that trans men are just butch lesbians and trans woman are men playing dress up to trick straight men into being gay, the punchline of nearly every piece of media with a trans character.

But please don't let all this deter you! Representation/visibility is SO important! I think the reason we have become so critical of our media is that when we do get a film/book/game/show that has queer/black/female/disabled/whatever characters, we want it to be perfect because the options are so limited. There are THOUSANDS of Hollywood blockbusters about young straight white male protagonists, if you don't like one you can just pick another! So when we hear they are making a film about [insert minority], we pin all our hopes on it being the Representation We Want, and then criticize it to death for not meeting all of our expectations (Wonder Woman). And Hollywood sees that criticism and says, "Guess we'll go back to making superhero blockbusters that are a safe investment! Has anyone found more actors named Chris?" So honestly, even if it isn't perfect, just having positive representation of minorities in ANY piece of media is A Good Thing.

Sorry for the rant, I've been reading a lot about representation in media lately. :soap box:

[MermaidBrandie]

What they said! A more diverse cast would be lovely.

Additional note: if it could pass a bechdel test that would be amazing.

(https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bechdel_test)

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[MermaidAnnabella]

MermaidBrandie

I completely agree, I would not want even any CGI. I actually contacted Mermaid Kariel to see if she’d be interested in producing a tail for a mermaid film, if it were to happen (and explaining my situation); she said she would love to. I would personally love to use tails from established and up-and-coming tail makers; ie Tail of Art, Mernation, etc. Do you think I should give donors the chance to vote on the top 2 protagonist’s tail makers (ie with a $1 donation), or the chance to design and keep the protagonist’s tail (like a $5-$10 limited raffle)?

I feel like the best way to execute a good story with a good plot is to have it be off of a story that is already well-known and beloved, but have a very unique mermaid twist to it. Also, that way people feel more comfortable in donating, since they know the plot will be a success. What do you think?

I’ve never heard of the Bechdel test. That is a very intriguing challenge. The story I’m looking at would not pass the test when thought about, however, I might be able to make it work by brainstorming ideas. Would you be comfortable with helping me in that? I would need to request that you keep the plot idea to yourself, as I don’t want someone to take it (unfortunately it is incredibly common in the movie business).

Vidia of Depths

I’m not sure if I’d use it to raise awareness for a specific issue, but I could use it as a way to raise money or help educate people on our oceans and what we could do to help. Do you think that would be beneficial and something you’d be interested in donating to?

I completely agree with having a LGBT+ friendly plot/storyline. One of the things I value incredibly is diversity; gender, gender identity, strong female characters, homosexual relationships, and racial diversity is a very important aspect of any story for me. With the plot I have in mind, I could turn a few characters into something different than expected (ie a character known to be straight could be trying too hard to marry a girl because he’s secretly gay and is afraid for others to know; even though that has been expressed in films, it is still important for others to understand what it’s like when you feel like the world can’t accept you because of your own private sexuality). A big focus for me would be to have racial diversity; ie, a black character is not the bad guy, and the protagonist couple would be Asian and Hispanic, Hispanic and Black, etc. Would that be something you’d be interested in backing?

And no worries, I appreciate your opinions and am honored you chose this thread to be your first! :)

Aquos Saver

Thank you. That is a very good idea - involving as many mers in the mermaid community to execute a mermaid film for the mermaid community would be not only a good marketing point for donors, but also an amazing way to support each other and bring the vision alive.

Thank you for your perk donation ideas as well. The only issue with being a mermaid extra is the cost of producing a tail for someone. So, what do you think, have it only be limited to mermaids with their own tails or can get their hands on a tail? Any type of material, preferably excluding fabric tails.

Mary Marine

I agree with the CGI suggestion as well. To be completely frank, the only time I ever liked CGI in a movie was Avatar, and that was a multi-million dollar movie. I don’t think I could execute a believable CGI on a smaller budget, as well as the fact that I feel like using CGI wouldn’t be honoring the mermaid community, rather just mocking it.

I completely agree! The movie industry sincerely lacks diversity. Racial and body diversity are incredibly important (I’m a curvy mer myself, I want to see someone like me on the big screen!).

That is a very good point and suggestion about having a LGBT mer in the film; I would not have thought about that. Thank you!

Do you have a suggestion for trans actors and actresses? I’m afraid I don’t know of any currently on-screen, only in my social circles. I’m aware of Kylie Jenner, but I don’t believe that she is an actress?

I couldn’t agree more, representation and visibility are extremely important. Have you seen Vox’s video on Youtube about yellowface in the entertainment industry? I feel like you would like it.

[Aquos Savar]

Aquos Saver

Thank you. That is a very good idea - involving as many mers in the mermaid community to execute a mermaid film for the mermaid community would be not only a good marketing point for donors, but also an amazing way to support each other and bring the vision alive.

Thank you for your perk donation ideas as well. The only issue with being a mermaid extra is the cost of producing a tail for someone. So, what do you think, have it only be limited to mermaids with their own tails or can get their hands on a tail? Any type of material, preferably excluding fabric tails.



Since we're talking about mermaid extras, maybe getting $100 tails for those extras since they won't be directly in the shot, it's just an opinion, maybe it won't look as good.

[MermaidBrandie]

I am honestly not sure if I would be useful in assisting pass that test. I know of it and know I want more movies like it is all. :)

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[Mary Marine]

Unfortunately I have no suggestions for actors/actresses and I would hesitate to name any because I don't know how big of a project this would be. Like what good would suggesting someone on the opposite side of the country do if you can't afford to fly them out for weeks/months of shooting? I don't know how big of a cast it would be either or if it's a story that has to be shot on a specific location, so everyone has to be flown out to wherever. Wish I could be more help, I feel like I just gave a list of demands with no practical advice on how to achieve them! But I am brainstorming indigogo rewards for backers as well as potential plot ideas (like you said, mermaidy twists on classic stories).

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[mermaid anastasia]

Romeo and Juliet mer/gay twist would be interesting

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[gay-mermaid]

definitely some LGBT+ mers. not like, implied LGBT+ either, clearly stated queer characters!! a mermaid falling in love with a human girl, a merman who binds his chest, or a merperson who uses they/them pronouns! its so rare i can see people like me onscreen who love who they are! and in such a diverse community as this one, its important that we can all see ourselves! there are plenty of other forms of diversity we dont see often enough, there arent nearly enough POC or disabled mers in the media, and it would be nice for everyone to see themselves!!!

[Aquos Savar]

definitely some LGBT+ mers. not like, implied LGBT+ either, clearly stated queer characters!! a mermaid falling in love with a human girl, a merman who binds his chest, or a merperson who uses they/them pronouns! its so rare i can see people like me onscreen who love who they are! and in such a diverse community as this one, its important that we can all see ourselves! there are plenty of other forms of diversity we dont see often enough, there arent nearly enough POC or disabled mers in the media, and it would be nice for everyone to see themselves!!!


Honestly, while this has some good arguments, i wouldn't recommend it for a film, at least not now.

Just hear me out, most people in the world are already acostumed to "The little mermaid", and basically think of mer-people as how they are represented in this movie (Or the killer mermaids from Pirates of the Caribbean), and while every mer-related movie had something different from "TLM", it still is the "Mermaid movie that people think when thinking of mermaids". But...i don't think the world is ready for a movie like that.

While POC and disabled mers might not be such a bad idea, adding LGBT mers to a movie that could be watched by children and their families...not a smart idea. The world is aware of LGBT but it's still being censored to the younger generations because of today's media and concerned parents. If the movie wasn't targeted to children, then go right ahead...but not many adults would want to watch a fantasy mermaid film and the movie could flop. If the movie was a horror movie with mers, then go ahead and add anything you want, since nobody will criticize you.

But if you really want to make a mer film with LGBT for children, wait a couple of years first.

P.D.: This is my opinion and my opinion alone. I have nothing against LGBT, POC or disabled mers. My opinion is just today's reality, nothing more.

[gay-mermaid]

Honestly, while this has some good arguments, i wouldn't recommend it for a film, at least not now.

Just hear me out, most people in the world are already acostumed to "The little mermaid", and basically think of mer-people as how they are represented in this movie (Or the killer mermaids from Pirates of the Caribbean), and while every mer-related movie had something different from "TLM", it still is the "Mermaid movie that people think when thinking of mermaids". But...i don't think the world is ready for a movie like that.

While POC and disabled mers might not be such a bad idea, adding LGBT mers to a movie that could be watched by children and their families...not a smart idea. The world is aware of LGBT but it's still being censored to the younger generations because of today's media and concerned parents. If the movie wasn't targeted to children, then go right ahead...but not many adults would want to watch a fantasy mermaid film and the movie could flop. If the movie was a horror movie with mers, then go ahead and add anything you want, since nobody will criticize you.

But if you really want to make a mer film with LGBT for children, wait a couple of years first.

P.D.: This is my opinion and my opinion alone. I have nothing against LGBT, POC or disabled mers. My opinion is just today's reality, nothing more.
If i had seen LGBT+ representation as a child, i would have understood myself much earlier on, and i wouldnt have had to deal with the mental effects of not realizing who i was that i have now. Representation is more important for children than others. They need be able to understand that its okay and normal to be LGBT+. The thing about representation is that you have to be bravr enough to provide it, even if you face opposition.

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[Aquos Savar]

If i had seen LGBT+ representation as a child, i would have understood myself much earlier on, and i wouldnt have had to deal with the mental effects of not realizing who i was that i have now. Representation is more important for children than others. They need be able to understand that its okay and normal to be LGBT+. The thing about representation is that you have to be bravr enough to provide it, even if you face opposition.



Ok, you have a point. Being LGBT is not bad, it's ok. But if you told me it was normal 100 years ago, people would've think you are crazy.

We accept it now, kinda, laws have been put in place, some states are more supportive than other, but overall, it's now normal, but everything that was different once was suppressed.

Just like POC, back in the 50s & 60s, it wasn't like today. My point is, we think it's ok, but not everyone is supportive of those ideas. Instead of trying to force the media to understand (That would be more damaging than beneficial), we should wait a bit since things are always changing, waiting some years might be beneficial than trying to rush that idea nowadays.

Again, my opinion, i'm not LGBT, but we are all mers here.

[Mermaid Kane]

a mermaid falling in love with a human girl, a merman who binds his chest, or a merperson who uses they/them pronouns! !

Yeesssssss....

[saborigakusei]

Ok, you have a point. Being LGBT is not bad, it's ok. But if you told me it was normal 100 years ago, people would've think you are crazy.

We accept it now, kinda, laws have been put in place, some states are more supportive than other, but overall, it's now normal, but everything that was different once was suppressed.

Just like POC, back in the 50s & 60s, it wasn't like today. My point is, we think it's ok, but not everyone is supportive of those ideas. Instead of trying to force the media to understand (That would be more damaging than beneficial), we should wait a bit since things are always changing, waiting some years might be beneficial than trying to rush that idea nowadays.

Again, my opinion, i'm not LGBT, but we are all mers here.

Actually historically homosexuality was prominent in many cultures and countries across the world (most famously ancient Greece and Rome, but also in east Asia and even in the Caliphates of the middle east). I'm no historian but if I understand correctly it was relatively recently in human history that homosexuality began to be a "taboo" so to speak, primarily due to the rise of certain religions.

I would love to see an LQBT protagonist in a mer-movie. An androgynous mer would be awesome, and in a way more "realistic" (small, streamlined figure would make them faster underwater, etc).

I personally would like to see as many underwater scenes as possible! I feel like most movies featuring mermaid spend so much time with the "fish out of water" scenes of the mer trying to fit in on land, and I'd much rather the focus be on exploring a new world underwater. That said, I know this would probably be very difficult with a low budget.

This sounds like a great project! Can't wait to see how it turns out!

[gay-mermaid]

Ok, you have a point. Being LGBT is not bad, it's ok. But if you told me it was normal 100 years ago, people would've think you are crazy.

We accept it now, kinda, laws have been put in place, some states are more supportive than other, but overall, it's now normal, but everything that was different once was suppressed.

Just like POC, back in the 50s & 60s, it wasn't like today. My point is, we think it's ok, but not everyone is supportive of those ideas. Instead of trying to force the media to understand (That would be more damaging than beneficial), we should wait a bit since things are always changing, waiting some years might be beneficial than trying to rush that idea nowadays.

Again, my opinion, i'm not LGBT, but we are all mers here.
Well you see, thats the thing. You arent LGBT+, so you wont benefit from that representation like i would or LGBT+ children would. You dont quite understand how important it is. It is vital that we begin to normalize queer people NOW. LGBT+ identities in america were close to being acceptable until the aids epidemic struck. Really, it has never NOT been normal to be queer, merely unacceptable. If we wait a gew years before trying to have more LGBT+ rep, thats more children who will believe they are wrong, that they arent normal, and that cannot stand.

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[Slim]

Sorry to jump but even though she is not part of the LGBT+, I do think she understands how important LGBT+ is. Representation is extremely important however the person expressed a budget. I came from the state of Vermont will it always been acceptable my whole life. If it wasn't for the budget aspect mention in the op, I know she would be happy to push LGBT+ to the fullest. If this person can success, eventually such movie will exist for everyone and we will get that dream story. Both sides understand each other.

[gay-mermaid]

Sorry to jump but even though she is not part of the LGBT+, I do think she understands how important LGBT+ is. Representation is extremely important however the person expressed a budget. I came from the state of Vermont will it always been acceptable my whole life. If it wasn't for the budget aspect mention in the op, I know she would be happy to push LGBT+ to the fullest. If this person can success, eventually such movie will exist for everyone and we will get that dream story. Both sides understand each other.
Of course!! Budget is always important!!!! Some people cannot afford to do big stuff like that. I never thought the OP was against anything!!

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[gay-mermaid]

I'm actually bisexual (or pansexual more accurately), and am dying for more non-hetero romance in mainstream media. :)

The person I was responding to seemed to be arguing that there shouldn't be an LGBT protagonist because the media "wasn't ready", and said it didn't used to be normal. All I said was that if you look far enough back into history, it was definitely normal in some cultures.
Absolutely! Progression has never been linear!

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[MermaidAnnabella]

Mary Marine

I’ve posted this in the professional mermaid group on Facebook asking if people would be interested, and I’ve gotten a lot of great responses! I’ve come to the idea that involving as many mers as possible, as actors/actresses, makeup artists, etc. would make it an even more amazing project. I’ve even been collecting resumes, I’m thinking of introducing the general idea of this film to the public and doing an online audition. The most qualified mers will be listed with their picture, and the mermaid community can vote on whom before I post the storyboard, finances, etc details on a fundraising page. What do you think?

Any ideas on rewards would be a great help! I want to offer what mers will invest in.


Gay-mermaid.memory & Aquos Savar

I completely and utterly agree with you. And you are completely right - if you saw LGBT+ representation as a child you would have understood yourself earlier on, in the sense that that’s how other children and young adults feel. I disagree with Aquos Savar’s comment (this is also not the place to judge other people’s sexualities and rights to them). I’m an SJW by nature and will always stand up for what I believe in, and that includes representation - even if it means Aquos Savar would not back this idea up.


saborigakusei

Homosexuality is in history! I remember learning about it in my European history class and seeing it in the early episodes of Reign.

I agree with the underwater scenes - those were always my favorite in H2O: Just Add Water. The purpose of this film would be as much underwater as possible, because that in question has never been done before. My goal with this film would be (at least nearly) entirely underwater. This can be achieved if done on a set, and for the swimming through sea-life scenes it can be worked out safely by using the Vancouver Aquarium (no flying anywhere etc).

Slim

I don’t see how mentioning the budget would impact representing LGBT+ culture? I already have a strong, important character in mind who would be perfect for a gay character and another who could be transgender.

I am definitely not against anything (@Slim & @gay-mermaid.memory).

[gay-mermaid]

Mary Marine

I’ve posted this in the professional mermaid group on Facebook asking if people would be interested, and I’ve gotten a lot of great responses! I’ve come to the idea that involving as many mers as possible, as actors/actresses, makeup artists, etc. would make it an even more amazing project. I’ve even been collecting resumes, I’m thinking of introducing the general idea of this film to the public and doing an online audition. The most qualified mers will be listed with their picture, and the mermaid community can vote on whom before I post the storyboard, finances, etc details on a fundraising page. What do you think?

Any ideas on rewards would be a great help! I want to offer what mers will invest in.


Gay-mermaid.memory & Aquos Savar

I completely and utterly agree with you. And you are completely right - if you saw LGBT+ representation as a child you would have understood yourself earlier on, in the sense that that’s how other children and young adults feel. I disagree with Aquos Savar’s comment (this is also not the place to judge other people’s sexualities and rights to them). I’m an SJW by nature and will always stand up for what I believe in, and that includes representation - even if it means Aquos Savar would not back this idea up.


saborigakusei

Homosexuality is in history! I remember learning about it in my European history class and seeing it in the early episodes of Reign.

I agree with the underwater scenes - those were always my favorite in H2O: Just Add Water. The purpose of this film would be as much underwater as possible, because that in question has never been done before. My goal with this film would be (at least nearly) entirely underwater. This can be achieved if done on a set, and for the swimming through sea-life scenes it can be worked out safely by using the Vancouver Aquarium (no flying anywhere etc).

Slim

I don’t see how mentioning the budget would impact representing LGBT+ culture? I already have a strong, important character in mind who would be perfect for a gay character and another who could be transgender.

I am definitely not against anything (@Slim & @gay-mermaid.memory).


Thats very good to hear!!! If you ever need a sensitivity reader for lesbian or genderqueer/nonbinary characters i would love to help!!

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[Mary Marine]

Here are some of the rewards I saw looking at other film projects on Indiegogo:
Twitter shout outs, copies of the soundtrack if the film has an original score, advance release digital downloads of the film, posters/buttons/other merchandise, autographs, copies of the screen play, your name included in the credits, behind the scenes footage/bloopers, premier/screening invitations, props and costume pieces used in the film, and casting as an extra in the film.

[MermaidAnnabella]

Hey everyone!

Taking everyone's comments into consideration, I've created a character list for a story should this movie happen. I will also be writing a screenplay for it based off of these characters; the screenplay can be changed, I have to write a screenplay for class anyways but I am using the class assignment as an opportunity to create a physical story for this idea. Please provide your suggestions, ideas, critiques, etc., so I can include it. Thank you!!

For the character's names, I wanted to rename the Romeo & Juliet characters off of diverse cultural names. I'd like to cast the film to have diversity as well, but if you feel like the original Romeo & Juliet characters should keep their names, please let me know.

----------



Miné: Female counterpart of Romeo. Beautiful, smart, sensitive. Impulsive and immature, 20 years old, hopeless romantic.

Kimiko: Female counterpart of Juliet. Beautiful, naive, courageous, curious, 18 years old, hopeless romantic.

Mateo: Male counterpart of Friar Lawrence. Sharp, witty, friend to both Miné and Kimiko.

Diego: Miné’s closest friend, transgender (to) male counterpart of Mercutio. Sarcastic, witty, imaginative.

Aala: Kimiko’s wet nurse, female counterpart to the nurse. Kimiko’s closest friend and confidante, very sexual and passionate when it comes to love.

Jaakan: Male counterpart to Tybalt; vain, narcissistic, aggressive and violent.

Alexander: Kimiko’s father, male counterpart to Capulet. Loves Kimiko and wants her to marry Melbourne, despite knowing that Kimiko is a lesbian. Wishes a heterosexual pairing to protect his line and her from cultural indifferences.

Anastasiya: Kimiko’s mother, female counterpart of Lady Capulet. Eager to have Kimiko marry Melbourne and be a wife, but doesn’t do much as a mother. Very shallow and superficial, not good moral support for Kimiko.

Obi: Miné’s father, very stoic and supreme-like. Male counterpart of Montague.

Kali: Miné’s mother, female counterpart of Lady Montague. When Miné is exiled from Verona, she dies out of grief. Very much emotionally involved in Miné’s wellbeing.

Melbourne: male counterpart of Paris; vain, eager to marry Juliet because he’s gay and wants to be in a hetereosexual marriage to protect himself.

The Apothecary: helps Romeo with the poison, immoral, eager for money.

[MermaidAiera]

I'd really love to see an idea like "Interview With a Vampire" done with mermaids. No romance necessary, an expansion on underwater scenes/full tail movie (no transformations on land), and something that allows people to look into a merperson's life. This leaves TONS of doors open--stories about being affected by pollution/hunting, experiences of life in a different world/culture where gender norms could be different completely, aspects about the ocean/giving it a "real life" twist (the ocean is cold, dark, and lonely; companionship is dangerous yet essential), and again NO ROMANCE PLZ. Upvote to passing the Bechtel test.

PS I'm on board with Aquos Savar's perk donation scheme. I'd pay good money to be in a mermaid film, hahaha :)

[MermaidAnnabella]

Got some perks figured out! Thoughts/ideas/suggestions?

Perks


$1: Receive a personalized thank you letter snail-mailed to you from the director herself!
$5: Have an idea for your own tail but not sure how to bring your ideas to life? The film has a tail designer for all the tails used in the movie. With this perk, you can have your own design come to life via the designer of our tails! Also includes all previous perks.
$10: Receive a digital copy of the film’s storyboard as well as a PDF copy of the screenplay, with all the director’s notes written in the margins! Also includes all previous perks.
$15: Want to be mentioned in the credits? Your name will be in the special thanks-end credits as being a huge helper in making this film happen. Have a professional mermaid name? We’ll include that too! Also includes all previous perks.
$25: Receive a DVD copy of the film as well as an exclusive, private link to the film online BEFORE it is released to the public. Also includes all previous perks.
$50: Receive 3 private 15-minute skype calsl with the film’s director: before, during, and after the film so you can inquire, suggest, and watch the film’s production live - seeing footage that no one else will be able to see. Also includes all previous perks.
$75: Receive an invite to the film’s online ‘red carpet premiere’ where you will be able to watch the film via skype with the entire cast and crew. You will also be able to interact and converse with the cast and crew prior to the film. Also includes all previous perks.
$100: Strut your mermaid stuff! Receive a unisex t-shirt with the film’s image printed on it, AUTOGRAPHED by the main cast members! You will also be given a personal shout-out on ALL the behind-the-scenes footage, bloopers, cast interviews, and film updates. Also includes all previous perks.
$150: Want to meet the cast? Participate in a skype call with the main cast members, plus pick a cast member to give you a shout-out on their own social media page! You will also be followed on Twitter by the film’s official page and given a shout-out there. Also includes all previous perks.
$200: Receive TWO TICKETS to see the film’s premiere with the rest of the cast and crew! Watch the magic with the mers that brought it to life. PLUS you will be thanked by the director herself prior to the film’s showing, for being one of the key donors to this campaign! Limited amount of 50 available. Also includes all previous perks.
$350: BE AN EXTRA! Want to strut your mermaid stuff in the film? With this perk, you could be an extra in the film. YOU MUST HAVE YOUR OWN TAIL. Limited amount of 25 spots available. To accommodate this number you will not be an extra in every scene. Travel and accommodations not provided. Also includes all previous perks, except for limited-editions.
$500: Wish you could own one your very own silicone mermaid tails? 14 tails will be needed to be produced for this film; and everyone who purchases this perk will be given the opportunity to buy one of the 10 basic silicone tails ($600 value) produced for the movie for only the cost of shipping. Own something straight out of an iconic film (tails will be listed in a closed facebook group in order of first-come, first-served, one tail per person). You will also receive your name in credits in the BEGINNING of the film as well as the end. Also includes all previous perks, except for limited-editions.
$750: Want to have a speaking role in the film that’s vital to the story? First mer to purchase this perk will play an extremely important character in the film. You will also receive credit for the character, in the beginning, and end of the film. Travel and accommodation not included. Limit of one available. Also includes all previous perks, except for limited-editions.
$1,000: Think you have what it takes to be an actor and just need your big break? Have a speaking role in the film that is a major supporting role. You will also receive credit for the character, in the beginning, and end of the film. Travel and accommodation not included. Limit of one available. Also includes all previous perks, except for limited-editions.
$5,000: Ready for your name to be in shiny lights? Your name, logo, and all your social media links will be advertised in the film, as well as receiving Executive Producer credit in the film and on IMDB. Your name will also be on all the film’s merchandise (t-shirts, dvds, etc) as a key executive producer. Also includes all previous perks, including limited-editions.
$10,000: {Pending Approval} Have you ever wanted one of the famed Merbella Studios tails? With a current wait time of 2 years, what if you could get your own custom Merbella tail in only 6 months?! Receive a basic Merbella tail (no upgrades) compliments of the film. You will also get to pick any of the perks above to give to a friend, and receive all the previous perks, including limited-editions. Only 3 available.

[MermaidLiara]

Please, no love story. No love at all. Or perhaps a gay or lesbian mer love? Anything more original than a standard, cliche'd straight love story PLEASE. These super cliche'd movie love stories make me barf. An LGBT love story is at least a bit more original, and might contribute to making LGBT more accepted throughout the world and it's a valuable lesson for kids.

I'd like an epic blockbuster, crazy 3D effects, merfolk swimming fast and breaching the water with dolhpins and orcas and WHALES oh and I want lots of turtles too. large ones and cute baby ones. The whole mermaids swimming and underwater world simply MUST be spectacular.

As for the plot: maybe a war with (a group of) humans? Not necessarily in this day and age. Maybe a thousand years back or a thousand years in the future. I would like an impressive, layered plot.

[MermaidLiara]

I'd LOVE to be an extra in a mermaid movie. But my question is: Do I need my own SILICONE tail? Or is a pretty fabric tail with some pretty extra fins (of organza) sufficient?

I assume a Finfolk mythic tail would also suffice.

And would I need to provide my own top? Or are the mermaids going to be artistically nude :D

[MermaidAnnabella]

Donor FAQ! Answers to questions that people are bound to ask.
Do you see any that are confusing? Do you have more questions that should be asked?

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Donor FAQ


Can I buy more than one perk level? What happens if I buy a $1 perk level but later buy a $25 perk level?

Of course you can buy more than one! You’re welcome to share your extra perks with another or keep double the amount of perks if you choose to get more than one tier.


Do perk prices include shipping?

No. All perks have their own specific shipping rates based on the country you are in.


Where can perks be shipped - anywhere in the world?

Perks can be shipped throughout the USA, Canada, Europe, and Asia. Perks can also be shipped to New Zealand and Australia - however, if your country has specific import regulations (for example, Australia has strict regulations of what comes into the country), and your perk won’t be allowed inside, that is up to you to figure out the rules and regulations. If a perk is returned because it wasn’t allowed into the destination country, you will be contacted for other options.


What about import or border fees - do I have to pay those fees?

If your country requires any import or border fees you will have to pay them. For USA and Canada donors, perks can be shipped from within your own country to help minimize these fees.


I live near where the film’s production is/near the director’s location. Can I meet up with them for my physical perks so I can save on shipping?

If you live in or near Seattle, WA, Bellingham, WA, and/or Vancouver, BC, you are welcome to meet up with the director or producer to receive your physical perks. If this happens you will be refunded the shipping price.


What if someone who purchases a perk to be in the film can’t act? Won’t that risk the quality of the film?

All actors who win a spot on the film will be trained. If the training is ineffective and the winner still can’t act, the film will accommodate the needs of the actor so the story can be properly executed and still grant the actor the opportunity they paid for.


What happens to all the costumes, props, and accessories after the film is over?

Silicone tails will be given away to an exclusive closed Facebook group comprising of all purchasers of the $500 perk. Fabric tails will be given away to the same Facebook group members should someone not receive a silicone tail. All props and accessories will be auctioned off via ebay for everyone who donated through an exclusive closed Facebook group, paying only for the cost of shipping.


I purchased the $15 perk level to get my name in the thanks-end credits. Can I give a different name, like my friend’s or co-workers? Are there any names you won’t put in?

You can give any name you’d like, but the director reserves the right to deny fake names - i.e. names after a celebrity (Selena Gomez, Morgan Freeman, etc) or names that advertise any illegal activity or drug paraphernalia.


What if the actors already have their own realistic mermaid tails - are you going to purchase new ones for the film? If yes, wouldn’t that be a waste of money?

Yes, new tails will be purchased purely because the tail is a costume to exemplify and fit a specific character. While an actor may have their own tail, if their tail does not fit the personality of the character, then the film’s visual quality is at risk.


I purchased a perk that includes the film on DVD. What kind of format will the DVD come in?

The DVD will come in all-region format (NTSC) and Australia’s format (PAL). Australia is the only country that does not work with NTSC.


What will the ‘online red carpet premiere’ entail? Will I be able to interact with others watching as well?

The online red carpet premiere will be a global visual premiere of the film. You will be given an exclusive, private URL link to watch the film online, as well as an exclusive Google Hangouts invite to interact with the people at the actual premiere. There will be a live chat box during the film where you will be able to interact with other viewers.


I purchased a t-shirt, but wasn’t one of the first 50 people. Will it not be autographed? If I was the 51st purchaser, can I get it autographed?

No, only the first 50 people who purchased a t-shirt will get it autographed.


Can I request a refund from/return any perk?

No, all perk purchases and donations are final sale only. The only way you can be refunded is if the campaign does not meet the fundraising goal, in which everyone who donated will receive their donation (including shipping charges) back.


Will my chance to meet the cast via Google Hangouts be private or will it be a group chat with other people who got the same perk?

It will be a group chat, however comments will be monitored so everyone can have a chance to speak.


What happens if the amount needed isn’t raised?

Indiegogo has two separate campaign types: fixed and flexible goal(s). Fixed campaigns will only receive the donations if the goal is met, whereas flexible campaigns will receive all donations even if the goal is not met. This campaign is a FIXED CAMPAIGN: meaning, if the goal is not raised in time, all donors will receive their money back.


How do we know no one is pocketing the money?

All expenses and receipts will be posted publicly on the Facebook page. All donors and the general public will have full access to expense reports and how much money is still leftover.


What happens if there is money leftover after the film has been made?

That is up to you as the donor. The Facebook page for this film will be having a survey if there is any money left, and what to do with it. Donate it to a marine conservation charity, or divvy up the rest as bonuses to our cast and crew?


What happens if this film generates revenue/profit?

The only way this film would be able to generate revenue/profit is through advertisements and views on Youtube. If a revenue or profit is created, the amount will be made public and will be going towards the same place any leftover money will be going to.


Who is getting paid?

All actors and crew members will be paid a SMALL stipend to compensate them for their time. Professional crew members from separate film studios will require their own salaries. Payments will be made public on the Facebook page as part of the expense reports.


I bought the tickets to see the premiere, but I want more than two tickets. Can I buy more tickets without receiving the other perks?

Currently no, you must buy that perk in order to receive the tickets. If you want to donate the extra perks associated with that tier to another person, you are welcome to do so. If you don’t want the extra perks you can opt out of them and be refunded for the shipping costs.


I’m an extra in the film, but I don’t have a top or tail to swim in. Can I still be an extra?

Absolutely! Several fabric tail companies have been contacted and are providing bulk discounts on their products. Using those discounts you’ll be able to swim in a brand new tail and top without the worry of supplying your own. Through the power of film editing, your fabric tail will look as realistic as one of the silicone tails!


I’m an extra in the film, and I have my own tail/top to swim in. Can I use my own?

Yes, provided your tail is not a repeat design of someone else’s tail in the same scene. (I.e. two Fin Fun aussie green tails in the same scene will not be allowed, as each mer will have a different designed tail, just like how each individual looks different on land!) Since an extra is not portraying a character, they are welcome to use their own tails/tops.


I purchased the $500 perk for the opportunity to buy a tail (for the cost of shipping) from the film. What if I don’t get a tail because other people got the tails before me?

Everyone who purchases the $500 perk will be added to an exclusive Facebook group. To make it fair so everyone can have an equal opportunity to get a tail from the film, the group’s admin will organize a time and date with all members for the live ‘giveaway’. Remember, while you won’t have to pay for the tail, you will be responsible for the tail’s shipping costs, but that will be requested via PayPal after the tail has been claimed. Once all the silicone tails have been claimed, the fabric tails will be up next. If you were unable to claim a tail in time, you will be given priority access to the leftover props and accessories.


What if I purchased the $500 perk to get my own silicone tail but none of the tails available fit me?

If none of the tails available fit you, try to claim a tail that you can alter. If you cannot alter a tail to fit to you, claim the tail regardless and you are more than welcome to sell that tail for the full retail value (you will be given proof of purchase if you choose to do so).


I purchased the $10,000 perk for a Merbella slot. Did I just pay $10,000 for a slot or is my tail included?

Your perk includes a tail. If you would like any upgrades to the tail, you must speak with Merbella Studios one-on-one about doing so.

[MermaidAnnabella]

MermaidLyara (https://mernetwork.com/index/member.php?7267-MermaidLyara)

Excellent point. I've edited that to where tails and tops will be included. As I want this film to be able to reach and be viewed by minors and children as well as adults, I'll be avoiding (even artistic) nudity.

As for the love story, the plot I am going for is a romance. But I love the suggestions of a homosexual romance and based on what I have in mind, having the two top protagonists be lesbian would make for excellent cinema as well as properly represent the LGBT+ community.

[Mermaid Kane]

MermaidLyara (https://mernetwork.com/index/member.php?7267-MermaidLyara)

Excellent point. I've edited that to where tails and tops will be included. As I want this film to be able to reach and be viewed by minors and children as well as adults, I'll be avoiding (even artistic) nudity.

As for the love story, the plot I am going for is a romance. But I love the suggestions of a homosexual romance and based on what I have in mind, having the two top protagonists be lesbian would make for excellent cinema as well as properly represent the LGBT+ community.

Yes! Include the les-beans!

[TybeeMermaid]

Hey, I'm an animation student at the Savannah College of Art and Design in Savannah, GA. If you ever need any animation done, I'd be happy to help out!

[Mermaid Kane]

Hey, I'm an animation student at the Savannah College of Art and Design in Savannah, GA. If you ever need any animation done, I'd be happy to help out!
Ohhh, do you have any examples? I'd love to see some animation!