Grant Application #1

Dear American Express Philanthropy:

My name is Donald Rebar and I am currently researching materials for a documentary film on emerging masculinities in the United States for _________. Although targeted towards young males, it is our hope that this film will reach a wide, multi-gendered college audience. If brought to production, this film would encompass a brief history of masculinity in the United States, documentation of current dominant masculinities and their relationship to the past—a return to the 1960’s “Esquire Man”, subgroups of hegemonic masculinities that could range from the punk rock aesthetic to the hipster phenomenon, as well as masculinity’s relationship to the economy and technology—with special attention to online blogs and communities. The American Express Philanthropy program would be an exceptional fit for this project, as this film looks to document a culture that is both ephemeral and ever changing, and to inform choices and attitudes that future generations will make.

The execution of this film will take place in the New York City area and will include interviews with scholars, informed parties such as bloggers and heads of organizations, and the “on-the-street” male. Special attention will be paid to followers of television shows such as “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy” and “Mad Men”—two shows with a recent influence on menswear and culture and men and women who follow those lifestyles. Shooting will take place over one month, with post-production taking anywhere from one to two months. I am requesting $10,000 to cover equipment expenses, wages, transportation, and marketing to universities. At present we have no other pledged financial support, but are actively looking.

To be judged as a success, we intend to produce one 30-40 minute documentary film that will be shown on campuses throughout the United States. While the lasting effects of this film on young men and women is difficult to measure, it is our hope that by facilitating a greater understanding of history and current masculinities, a positive masculinity can be established for future generations.

Thank you for your consideration.