Writing to Heal
A young Peace Corps volunteer, Cherie Kephart is struck by a mysterious illness that shadows her, challenging her spirit and body. As the medical world leaves her with more questions than answers, Cherie finds solace in the art of writing. "Writing to Heal" is an exploration of resilience, the therapeutic power of words, and the indomitable human spirit. Dive into an odyssey of struggle and hope, proving that even in our darkest moments, there's a story waiting to illuminate the path forward.
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Tamotsu TomeDirector
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Tamotsu TomeProducer
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Cherie KephartKey Cast
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Project Type:Documentary, Short, Web / New Media
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Genres:Documentary, writing, writer, healing, health, inspirational
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Runtime:10 minutes 59 seconds
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Completion Date:September 20, 2023
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Production Budget:0 USD
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Country of Origin:United States
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Country of Filming:United States
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Language:English
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Shooting Format:Digital
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Aspect Ratio:2.39:1
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Film Color:Color
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First-time Filmmaker:No
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Student Project:Yes - AOD
Tamotsu is a multifaceted documentary filmmaker residing in Hawai'i. He is deeply passionate about capturing the essence of a rapidly changing society where traditional career norms are being redefined. At the heart of his work lies the desire to spotlight individuals who are using their platforms to bring, positive changes filled with wisdom.
Before stepping into the world of documentary filmmaking, Tamotsu built an eclectic career that lends depth to his current endeavors. He successfully started and scaled an eCommerce business, which earned a spot on the INC 5000 list of fastest-growing companies. But his expertise doesn't end there; Tamotsu also has experience in coaching, teaching, photo editing in Hollywood, and even the robotics industry. This varied background informs and enriches his storytelling, making him a filmmaker with both substance and skill.
Outside of his professional life, Tamotsu has many pursuits and passions. He is deeply committed to personal transformation, practicing meditation and participating in jiu-jitsu as part of his routine. A technophile at heart, he keeps up to date with the latest in technology while also advocating for family wellness.
Tamotsu’s emotional core and inspiration emanate from his personal life. Married to his loving wife, who taught him the profound art of opening his heart, they share their life with two fun-loving children. Parenthood has been their most fulfilling adventure, teaching them everything from patience and compassion to the more practical aspects of life like energy and sleep management.
In a world in constant flux, Tamotsu is a filmmaker intent on capturing the voices and stories that need to be heard. With a lens focused on impact and a heart tuned to the rhythms of human experience, he isn't just making films—he's making a difference.
In today’s world, where voices often get lost amidst the cacophony of information, it’s vital to highlight stories that resonate with authenticity, struggle, and transcendence. "Writing to Heal" isn’t just about Cherie Kephart's life. It’s about the universality of the human spirit, the intrinsic need for self-expression, and the transformative power of words and stories.
When I first encountered Cherie's journey, I was struck not just by the adversity she faced but by her unwavering commitment to use her experiences as a beacon for others. This wasn’t a story of simple triumph over adversity. Instead, it was a nuanced exploration of self, identity, and the uncharted territories of the human soul. Cherie’s relationship with writing, her refuge from the unrelenting storms of life, reminded me of the silent conversations many of us have with ourselves, often left unspoken.
In directing this documentary, I wanted to tread softly, allowing Cherie's voice to lead us while emphasizing the profound universality of her narrative. The documentary merges the personal with the universal. Through intimate visuals, coupled with a compelling narrative, I aimed to capture not just Cherie's physical journey from the roller-skating beaches of Venice to the challenging terrains of Zambia, but also her inner journey - from uncertainty and pain to discovery and empowerment.
Every frame of "Writing to Heal" was crafted with intention, aspiring to echo the essence of Cherie’s memoir - making "a few minor adjustments." Whether it’s in the way light filters through a window, reflecting both hope and despair, or the symbolic representation of words on paper, my team and I worked diligently to encapsulate the spirit of Cherie's story.
As a filmmaker, I've always believed that the most profound stories are those that challenge, move, and inspire. With "Writing to Heal," my hope is to offer viewers a mirror, reflecting not only Cherie’s indomitable spirit but also their own capacity for resilience, growth, and transformation.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. As Cherie beautifully articulates, no matter how dark life gets, there's always light.