PRICE OF A DREAM

“Price of a Dream” is a poetic and deeply personal short documentary that examines the sacrifices and emotional cost of migration through the story of two Senegalese emigrants who tragically lost their lives while pursuing the American Dream. Told through the lens of the filmmaker’s brother, the film combines reflective imagery, heartfelt voicemails, and interviews with key voices, including an immigration lawyer, the president of the Senegalese Association, and a journalist. Together, these perspectives explore the harsh realities of leaving home, navigating a complex system, and enduring the pain of separation. The documentary raises profound questions about the price of ambition, the meaning of family, and the lasting impact of dreams left unfulfilled.

  • oussmane fall
    Director
  • oussmane fall
    Writer
  • oussmane fall
    Producer
  • BRINA Janelle Joiner
    Producer
  • elhaj papa gora ndao
    Key Cast
  • Mamadou Drame
    Key Cast
  • Thomas Rhome
    Key Cast
  • Dame Babou
    Key Cast
  • Muhammad Khaerisman
    voice actor
  • Babba Maal
    voice sample
  • Oussmane Fall
    director of photography
  • Ramy Cheikh Tidiane Amath Alioun Fall
    Cam OP
  • Project Type:
    Documentary
  • Runtime:
    23 minutes 54 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    January 1, 2025
  • Production Budget:
    2,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States, United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States, Senegal, United States
  • Language:
    English, Wolof
  • Shooting Format:
    35mm
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - oussmane fall

Oussmane is a contemporary African surrealist and visual storyteller based in New York. Born in Harlem to Senegalese parents, he bridges the gap between African Americans and Africans through photography, videography, and surrealism. Raised in both the U.S. and Senegal, his work reflects childhood dreams, memories, and the fight for freedom, blending realism and abstraction to engage viewers emotionally and intellectually. Inspired to uplift the Black community, he founded Noir Media, a platform for empowering Black narratives. His passion for visual storytelling extends to directing and collaborating with creatives worldwide, amplifying connections and celebrating shared heritage.

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Director Statement

As a first-generation African American raised between Harlem and Senegal, my work explores the duality of identity and the disconnection between African Americans and Africans. Through photography, videography, and surrealism, I aim to tell stories that blend reality and abstraction, evoking both emotion and imagination. My art is deeply rooted in my upbringing in an African household, shaped by dreams, memories, and the fight for freedom. Founding Noir Media allows me to amplify Black narratives and create a platform for connection and empowerment. Every project I undertake is an invitation to bridge cultural gaps and celebrate the richness of shared heritage through visual storytelling.