Dear Family, Friends, and Supporters,

First I would like to thank you for your support and encouragement over the past few months in support of Kizuna. It is with regret to announce that we will not be shooting Kizuna as a thesis film project this October. Due to lack of funding, the school effectively pulled the proverbial plug, despite our best efforts.

We had actually lowered some of our costs for the production by choosing to shoot in the RED Camera. We did a test on the RED Camera which went well. ANA airlines agreed to allow us to purchase tickets at a significant discount. Asahi beer company had given us product placement. We were in contact with a company in Japan which could have helped us in terms of production and getting in equipment. We even found a hostel willing to let us stay for $30 a day, which would have included breakfast and dinner for the crew. Personally, I felt strongly we should have continued, but the powers that be felt otherwise.

So, I an now gearing up to shooting something else as a thesis film project. The vision for Kizuna is to be shot in Japan and I have to stay true to that vision.

Given that we’ve raised a significant amount of money via Indiegogo and from other sources, I’ve been encouraged to continue to pursue getting Kizuna off the ground at some point next year, possibly during the spring in Japan. I’d very much like to keep the momentum going forward and build in the foundation which has already been laid.

If anyone who has donated would like to have their donation returned I will do so no questions asked. Just send me an email letting me know. But if you would like to continue to support Kizuna, I will dedicate those funds to the film and keep you posted on our progress.

I am currently in Japan not only working on the new thesis film project, I am also looking to make further contacts for Kizuna. So, essentially, although Kizuna will no longer be a thesis film project, it will still continue to be a project. Ganbarimasu!!

Thank you again for all of your prayers, support, and positive energy.

Create an excellent day.

Best wishes,

Darryl Wharton-Rigby

We are doing a test shoot for Kizuna this weekend using the RED Camera. This is only a step towards the realization of a vision and a dream. So excited. I have a great team for this project and can’t wait for the world to see what a special story Kizuna will be when it is complete in 2010. We’re moving towards our goal but we still need you help. Please make a donation for Kizuna and help us create — magic.

Sounds fascinating and different. Looking forward to it!