Private Project

D-Money: Behind The Music

This mockumentary tells the story of a wannabe rap artist. With the help of his manager, an abuela, and his homeless friend, D- money does whatever it takes to make his way into the music industry. From kidnapping a beat producer to playing illegal live shows; this self absorbed man goes to extremes to become somebody.

  • David Har'el
    Director
  • David Har'el
    Writer
  • David Har'el
    Producer
  • Diana Cabuto
    Producer
  • David Har'el
    Key Cast
    "D-money"
  • Graciela Patino
    Key Cast
    "Abuela"
  • Erick Perez
    Key Cast
    "Antonio"
  • Carlos Flores
    Key Cast
    "Charlie"
  • Ryan Payne
    Key Cast
    "Hobo"
  • Ly Heng
    Key Cast
    "Restaurant owner"
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Genres:
    Comedy, Mockumentary, irreverent comedy
  • Runtime:
    8 minutes 36 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    October 17, 2021
  • Production Budget:
    500 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - David Har'el

Being an immigrant in the U.S. can be very scary. I came to the U.S at 13 years old from El Salvador. Since then I persisted and continued my education, learned a new language, and adapted to the American life. I grew up feeling lost and disconnected. I avoided confronting my emotions and found Cinema to be a quick escape from reality. Cinema made feel a sense of belonging. It helped me evade my own struggles and fears. I soon realized that Cinema could also help me heal and face those emotions by writing my own story, and by enriching my approach to filmmaking. It allowed me to find purpose and gain hope. Watching works by other immigrant filmmakers also gave me the courage to pursue filmmaking. Finding vessels like these that support the immigrant communities through the arts has given us immigrants opportunities to feel equal to others, share our quiet voices and be seen.

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Director Statement

As an underrepresented director in the film industry, I believe we need to tell stories beyond the stereotypes we are given on screen. By using dark comedy and satire as a vehicle, D money tells the story about a misfit who will do anything to achieve his dreams, regardless of what the world throws at him.
In essence, we all feel like outsiders asking not be defined by the status quo, but to be seen for who we really are as individuals.