She was impeccably dressed and larger than life. As my teacher at Cobb Junior High School in Tallahassee, Mrs. Aurora Ritter instilled in me a love for language.

But a mystery surrounded her, and only decades later (after reading her daughter’s book, Aurora) did I discover what it was: that Aurora was deceived by her German-immigrant husband when he emerged as the leader of one of the largest enemy spy rings in American history. Stranded alone in Nazi Germany, Aurora fought heroically to protect her young children from the horrors of war.

This story blew me away, so I wrote a screenplay and tried to sell it to Hollywood. I finally realized, however, that if the story was to be told, I would have to do it.

A budget of $89,000 is small for a full-length film, but to me, it’s challenging. I am self-funding most of it, which leaves at least $20k to raise from people who would like to see it completed. That amount will pay for:

—The remaining production: dramatic reenactments, interviews, etc.

—Post-production: editing, music, graphics, archival footage, etc.

—Getting the film seen: via a film distributor or streaming service.

We are able to make a high-quality film for a small budget thanks to the help of friends, family, volunteers, and a small crew of underpaid film pros. We are also involving local high school performers from Midfield High School, fellow Cobb Junior HIgh alumni, and are partnering with several local educators and history scholars to make sure that the story is all it can be.

Through our crowdfunding partner, Seed & Spark, we are raising $20,000. Whether you give in honor of one of your favorite teachers or not, you can be assured that every dollar you give will be spent wisely.

Please explore our Seed & Spark page. Thanks for your consideration!