Issue 1 August, 2023

Welcome to the inaugural edition of the 2Tone Films newsletter! By joining our newsletter you'll stay connected and be the first to explore everything related to our company.

Ware thrilled to keep you updated on our latest projects, announcements, and industry insights. Stay tuned for an exciting journey ahead!

2TONE MONTHLY FILM

ISSUE 1 | 08/01/2023

IN THIS ISSUE

FEATURE
Athazagora-Updates!
Marketing, Release Dates, and Exciting Promotions!

SPOTLIGHT
Introducing Lee Stone:
A Visionary Music Producer and Film Composer

HIGHLIGHT
Hollywood Writers' Strike:
Turbulent times for independent screenwriters -Updates & Theoretical Implications.

FOCUS: DID U KNOW?

"Athazagora" intertwines the story of a young starlet plagued by Athazagora-phobia and a man exhibiting early signs of Alzheimer's. This unique connection reveals the profound effects on mental health when these two conditions intersect. As the starlet falls in love with the man, she confronts her deepest fear while witnessing the slow erosion of memories and identity in her partner. The movie not only portrays the emotional turmoil and vulnerability experienced by those affected by Alzheimer's but also sheds light on the complex emotions tied to the fear of being forgotten. "Athazagora" is a poignant and thought-provoking film that prompts important conversations surrounding mental health, aging, and the power of human connection

Athazagora Updates!
Marketing, ReleaseDates & Exciting Promotions!

Dear Film Fans,
We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all of you who have been patiently waiting for updates on our highly anticipated film, "Athazagora." We understand that the anticipation has been building, and we wanted to take a moment to provide you with updates and insights into our progress.

Re-Edit & Music

We are currently going through a re-edit of the film. By refining certain elements of the film will ensure that every aspect of the story centers around the theme of mental health.

We are also working diligently on clearing licensed tracks while creating original music specifically tailored to enhance the storytelling and emotional impact of the film..

Marketing

Over the next five months, we are excited to launch a full-scale marketing campaign which will include contests and giveaways where you will have the opportunity to win exclusive merchandise, premiere tickets, and other exciting prizes.

Mark Your Calendars!

November is going to be a significant month for us. We are thrilled to announce that the new trailer for "Athazagora" will have its grand premiere during that time.

We are also proud to share that our long-awaited screening will be in November! This special event will be an opportunity for us to celebrate the completion of "Athazagora" alongside the ones who've helped us make it and new fans. Finally, we plan to release the film for streaming in December 2023, so you can enjoy Athazagora from the comfort of your own home.

In Closing

We truly appreciate your support and patience as we refine and perfect "Athazagora." We cannot wait to share our cinematic journey with you!

FILM
LEE STONE

Music Producer & Film Composer
CAREER

In the world of hip-hop production, Lee Stone stands out as a distinctive artist with a diverse background. While most producers come from a hip-hop or R&B background, Stone's musical journey began in the realm of Heavy Metal. Growing up, he explored various instruments and developed a deep passion for music. It was through his work with Pharaoh Monch that Stone gained recognition, eventually leading him to collaborate with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Kanye West.

Recently, Stone has been working closely with writer and director Tony Travis on multiple projects. The two share a remarkable artistic vision, both musically and visually, and their collaboration has resulted in compelling works. Stone composed the music for Travis's latest film, "Athozagora," showcasing his talent as a film composer. The duo has already embarked on their next feature film, and Stone has begun working on the music for this exciting new project.

Stone's multifaceted journey was recently featured on the "BACK TO THE BOOM BAP' podcast, where he discussed his experience working on the "Athazagora" film and his transition from music producer to film composer. The interview delved into his unique perspective and shed light on the creative process behind his music.

In a recent interview, Stone shared some insights into his musical journey and influences.

Having been exposed to various genres from an early age, his musical taste spans a wide spectrum. From ABBA to Wu-Tang, Stone draws inspiration from diverse sources, appreciating great songs and powerful vocal interpretations.

Describing his sound as "Black Rock," Stone's music carries a heavy, impactful quality. Renowned jazz guitarist Ronny Jordon once referred to Stone's sound as "Sugar-Free," capturing its distinct flavor.

Stone's involvement in the music industry dates back to the late 1990s when he made his debut on Organized Konfusion's album, "The Equinox." Although he didn't produce any tracks for the record, he contributed his distinctive voice to one of the skits, showcasing his artistic versatility.

THE COLLABORATIVE JOURNEY

His partnership with Pharaoh Monch, which began with collaborative projects, led to Stone's association with Monch's label, W.A.R. Media. Together, they created groundbreaking music and left a significant impact on the hip-hop scene.

When it comes to his creative process, Stone's approach varies depending on the project.

Sometimes, he creates a catalog of beats, and artists choose the ones that resonate with them. Other times, he immerses himself in the project and tailors his production to complement the artist's vision. Stone's ability to guide artists while allowing their creative freedom has led to successful collaborations with Scarface, Royce da 5'9", Method Man, and Shabaam Sandeeq, among others.

For more insights into Lee Stone's journey and his thoughts on music production, check out the full interview on the "BACK TO THE BOOM BAP" podcast. It's a fascinating conversation that sheds light on Stone's creative process and his evolution from a music producer to a film composer.

As Lee Stone continues to make waves in the industry, we can expect to hear more groundbreaking music from this talented artist. His ability to blend different genres and his cerebral approach to analyzing art make him a force to be reckoned with. Stay tuned for his upcoming projects and witness the magic that Lee Stone brings to the world of music and film.

FILM
HOLLYWOOD WRITERS' STRIKE: TURBULENT TIMES FOR INDEPENDENT SCREENWRITERS

As of the current date. the Writers' Guild of America (WGA) has been engaged in a prolonged strike, impacting the production of numerous TV shows and films in Hollywood. The strike Is centered on crucial issues, such as fair compensation for streaming services, better working conditions, and healthcare benefits for writers.

Negotiations between the WA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) have been ongoing for several months, but a resolution is yet to be reached. This situation is causing growing concerns among not just Hollywood writers but also independent screenwriters who are closely monitoring the developments.

WRITERS' IMPACT:

While the primary focus of the strike lies in Hollywood, its effects are being felt throughout the entertainment industry, particularly by independent screenwriters. As major studios put some projects on hold, they are less likely to take risks on new scripts or unestablished writers. making it difficult for independent screenwriters to break into the industry.

Moreover. the strike has disrupted the production timeline of various films and series. leading to delays in release dates. As a result, there is less demand for new scripts and screenplays, creating a challenging environment for independent writers seeking to sell their work.

THE CONSEQUENCES OF NO AGREEMENT:

If writer's strike continues without reaching an agreement, the implications could be severe for both established and aspiring screenwriters. Here are a few possible scenarios:

1. Stagnation of Creativity: The absence of new content due to the strike can result in a lack of fresh ideas and innovation within the industry. Audiences might turn to other forms of entertainment, impacting the overall demand for screenplays.

2. Financial Loss for Writers: Many writers may struggle financially, leading to potential career shifts or departures from the industry altogether.

3. Increased Pressure on Independent Screenwriters: As major studios face revenue losses, they may become more risk-averse, making it even harder for independent screenwriters to have their scripts noticed and picked up for production.

4. Shift towards Independent Production: On the flip side, some independent filmmakers and content creators may seize the opportunity to produce their own projects, bypassing traditional studio routes. This could lead to a rise in innovative, low-budget productions.

The Writers' Strike has far-reaching implications, particularly for independent screenwriters trying to make a mark in the industry. As negotiations continue, the fate of countless writers hangs in the balance. We hope for a swift resolution that benefits all. Happy writing!

As an independent filmmaker, your passion lies in crafting compelling stories that resonate with audiences worldwide. But in today's competitive film industry, the path to success goes beyond creating an extraordinary movie; it involves building a dedicated audience before even approaching distributors or streaming services. By doing so, you hold the key to unlocking greater financial rewards and creative control for your film.

The Power of Audience

Picture this: You've poured your heart and soul into your first feature film, and a distributor shows interest, offering you a $20,000 advance. Exciting, right? But what if I told you that with a well-established audience, the same film could have been worth millions? The traditional model often left filmmakers at the mercy of distributors who determined a film's value, limiting their potential earnings. However, times have changed, and with the advent of social media and viral marketing, filmmakers now have a unique opportunity to directly connect with their audience.

Learning from the Past:

After receiving that modest $20,000 advance, my movie went on to win prestigious awards and secured wide distribution. Regrettably, I didn't have the opportunity to reap the rewards of its immense success as the distributor set the film's value without considering its potential impact on the market.

Adapting to the Current Landscape:

The film industry landscape has transformed significantly since then. Today, filmmakers can leverage social media marketing, influencers, and viral videos to their advantage. By focusing on audience engagement and building a loyal following, you gain bargaining power with distributors and streaming platforms. This new business approach empowers independent filmmakers to secure better deals, ensuring they benefit proportionately from their film's success.