Independent Filmmaker Launches Fundraising Initiative for Unique Documentary

Independent Filmmaker Kori Feener Launches Fundraising Initiative for Unique Documentary

Alpine Zone to Capture a Journey of Self-Discovery on the Appalachian Trail
Topsfield, Mass., December 19, 2011–Independent filmmaker Kori Feener today announced the launch of an online fundraising initiative in support of her second documentary film, Alpine Zone. The film will follow Feener as she attempts to rediscover herself while undertaking a daunting challenge–thru-hiking
the Appalachian Trail. She will record the six-month, 2,000 mile adventure and translate it into a compelling film, highlighting her personal adventure and interactions with like-minded travelers along the way. Feener must meet her fundraising goal by January 15, 2012 in order to proceed with her journey,
which is slated to begin in March of 2012. Contributions are being accepted through Kickstarter, the world’s largest funding platform for creative projects; please click here to learn more or submit a donation.

Pledging to support a project through Kickstarter not only provides support for emerging artists but it also entitles you to unique rewards. For Alpine Zone, possible rewards include an autographed copy of the final DVD, a mention in the film credits, “special producer” status, and a toured day-hike of Mount Chocorua. Further, a project must reach its funding goal before the given deadline or no money changes hands–a policy that helps protect everyone involved. Given the required funding, Feener will set out to conquer this feat that thousands attempt but only 20 percent actually complete. And through a cinéma vérité style of shooting, audiences everywhere will be able to join her. Feener hopes that through the film, she can share with the world what will undoubtedly be a life-changing experience.

“In today’s American society, it seems that people are expected to be married homeowners with established careers and plans for starting a family by the ripe age of 30. At 28 years old, I’m faced with these pressures but also recognize that this standard path isn’t necessarily the only one to happiness,” said Feener when asked about the impetus for her project. “By enlisting myself in this test of physical and mental capability, I’m essentially pausing my existing life in order to focus on basic survival needs and the beauty of the world around me.”

Like the natural region where the film gets its name, Alpine Zone will deal with a delicate landscape, both literally and figuratively. It will explore what it really takes for someone to open a new chapter in their life, preserving what is important from the past but also allowing the continuation of growth and discovery. On this journey, every step matters and every decision could be the difference between the end and the continuation of emotional and physical growth. Please visit AlpineZoneFilm.com for more information.

About the Filmmaker
Kori Feener, a Massachusetts native, has been working as both a fiction and documentary filmmaker for many years. She earned her B.A. in Film and Media Arts from the University of Tampa, at which she was named “Film and Media Arts Student of the Year” in 2006. After graduating, she undertook an ambitious
project, a documentary titled Where There Is a Will, which she both produced and directed. The film centered on Feener’s former high school classmate who experienced a traumatic brain injury and his family’s subsequent battles around health insurance. This project ultimately helped raise $16,000 for the subject and his family. Kori is now working on her MFA in Media Art at Emerson College. More recently, she was the cinematographer for Wrigley and King, a film that has been the official selection at the following film festivals: Temecula Valley International Film & Music Festival 2011, Okanagan Film Festival 2011, Flint Film Festival 2011, Flatland Film Festival 2011, Trail Dance Film Festival 2012 and the Beloit
International Film Festival 2012.

Contact Information:
Kori Feener
813-546-4464
kori_feener@emerson.edu