Beyond Expectations Independent Film Project Scheduled for Debut

Philadelphia, PA, February 10, 2009 --(PR.com)-- 18 and Out, the highly anticipated short narrative about youth ‘aging out’ of the foster care system, is the breakout project of local female screenwriter, Leontyne Anglin, which will debut at the acclaimed Take the Lead Ballroom and Dance Studio in Philadelphia, PA. The story was masterfully crafted and brought to life by award-winning director and producer Misha Zubarev. “For me, the most rewarding part of filmmaking is telling stories that have meaning and can play a part in influencing and changing the way people see, feel, and think about the past, present, and future,” said Zubarev.

The story was conceived and written by Ms. Anglin who also served as executive producer. She and Zubarev adapted the story into a screenplay and worked in tandem with associate producer, Wayne Wilson, to get the project underway. “It has become very clear to me that the one thing about our lives -- we don't get to choose is our parents,” said Wilson. The three met just six months ago at community events hosted by Media Independence Television and agreed to collaborate efforts. Steven Gladstone, of New York based Gladstone Films, even made time in his busy schedule to serve as Director of Photography.

This is the first independent film project of Beyond Expectations, Inc. (BE), a South Jersey based 501(c)3 organization founded ten years ago, which began hosting educational forums and advocating on behalf of teens. “I’m most excited that we had a number of young people involved in this project,” said Anglin. “As we move into 2009, we will continue to leverage social media, television, film and radio, to get more phenomenal stories told.”

The project was developed essentially without any real budget. However, the fantastic crew and the great cast of actors, many of whom have a long list of credits, approached the project with the same high level of professionalism as though this were a major feature film. “This has been an incredible journey,” said Anglin, “watching the story unfold and working really hard to maintain a level of integrity.”

The premiere is free to the public and donations will be accepted to help support future projects. “My sincere desire for writing this story was to educate, put real faces to the statistics, and bring dignity and respect to so many teens struggling to make a new life on their own, often as young as 18 years old,” said Anglin. “After viewing the film, I hope people will feel compelled to learn more, ask more, and do whatever they can to lend a hand.”

More On 18 and Out

More information about the film, other youth projects and what you can do to help is available at: beyondexp.net.

Take the Lead Ballroom & Dance Studio, located in vibrant University City, was founded by co-owners & artists Garincha Hilaire and Jennifer Janson. The studio was born out of the collective "Dream" of a place where all art forms including music, dance, visual art, poetry, acting, and theater can join forces to create a home for collaboration, creativity, and community. www.taketheleadstudio.com.

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Media Contact:
Leontyne Anglin
beyondexp1@gmail.com

About Beyond Expectations:

Celebrating ten years serving community, Beyond Expectations is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that educates and advocates on behalf of teens primarily in the tri-state area. Programs have ranged from college admissions and scholarships, financial literacy, and other independent living skills as they transition into adulthood.