Update on the Film

When we started this process, we were compelled by the music and mystery of Luke's story.

Where was he?

What had happened to this incredible, authentic sound and artistic cowboy that we fell in love with?

Upon learning of Luke's passing, we felt an incredible sense of calling that led us to pursue the film.

Along the way, we hoped to follow in Luke's path, and to the extent that we could - that brought us to some really incredible Artists, Doctors, Ranchers, Counselors, Wanderers, Storytellers - all connected by their love for Luke Bell. Even though some of them knew different ‘versions’ of Luke.

We’ve learned and grown so much on this journey.

All of us confront our brokenness.

All of us looking for peace and redemption of some sort.

All of us on our own journeys.

So along the way, we decided to make go at festival submissions, both to Sundance and to SXSW, the two biggest US film festivals. We didn't have the film finished, but we thought maybe if we submitted a really strong rough cut, it'd be enough to be accepted, and we could continue to finish and refine while we await an answer. Meanwhile, because these festivals require premiere status, this meant we had to put off any plans of public screenings.
Unfortunately, we were not accepted by either Sundance of SXSW.
Bummer.

But the truth is: the film wasn't ready yet.

And honestly, who are we anyway?

We are complete outsiders/unknown filmmakers - so why would the festival take a chance on us?

It makes sense, we get it.

But then again, we didn't start this journey because we wanted acclaim or film festival status approval. So in some sense, nothings changed. We wanted to honor Luke.
So what now?

Our plan now is to finish the film and pursue distribution options. Meanwhile we will submit to other film festivals once we’re ready, but we will also move forward with the screenings we announced as part of the Kickstarter. We couldn’t have done this without you, and we incredibly grateful for the support and messages you’ve shared along the way.

In closing - we wish you the absolute best in the coming year and
we will look to release WHERE YA BEEN? (The Odyssey and Elegy of Luke Bell) later this spring.