"Surviving Ben" is a feature film based on the heart-wrenching true story of a brother and sister's profound bond and their lifelong battle with the devastating effects of mental illness.

The story opens with a gripping scene: Ben Horowitz, a handsome and funny man in his mid-40s, is holding a gun to his head, tears streaming down his face. This is the tragic culmination of a long and arduous journey.

Through a series of present-day scenes and poignant flashbacks, we witness the beautiful, funny, and deeply loving relationship between Ben and his sister, Sarah. From their idyllic childhood on the beaches of South Carolina to their navigating the complexities of adulthood, their connection is the heart of our story. Ben is Sarah's protector, her confidant, and her biggest cheerleader.

But beneath the surface of their happy family life lies a darkness. At 22, Ben experiences his first psychotic break, a terrifying episode that marks the beginning of his struggle with bipolar disorder. The film unflinchingly portrays the family's journey through the highs and lows of Ben's illness: the confusion, the fear, the frantic search for the right medication, and the ever-present hope for his recovery.

We see Ben's moments of triumph: graduating from law school, starting a business with his father, and finding love. But the specter of his illness is never far, and the family grapples with the social stigma, particularly from their mother, Enid, who is desperate to keep Ben's condition a secret.

Ultimately, after the loss of his father and a series of personal and professional setbacks, Ben's light begins to dim, leading to the devastating decision to take his own life. "Surviving Ben" is not just about Ben's struggle, but also Sarah's. It's about her fight to understand, to support, and ultimately, to survive the unimaginable loss of her brother and best friend.

Why This Film Matters

This is more than just a movie; it's a mission.

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  To Break the Stigma: Mental illness is not a weakness or something to be ashamed of. As Sarah says, "It's not their fault, it's not shameful, and it's not a sin to admit it." This film will confront the stigma head-on, encouraging open and honest conversations about mental health.

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  To Highlight a Global Crisis: Suicide is a global epidemic, with approximately 800,000 people dying by suicide every year. In the U.S., firearms are a significant part of this crisis, accounting for 60% of firearm deaths. "Surviving Ben" will bring these startling statistics to life through a deeply personal story.

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  To Offer Hope and Resources: The film ends with Sarah finding a new purpose: sharing Ben's story to help others. By supporting this film, you are helping to spread a message of hope and encouraging those who are struggling to seek help. As the Jewish law says, "if you save one life, you save the world."

The Team

This project is driven by a passionate team dedicated to telling this story with the authenticity and sensitivity it deserves.

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  Story by: Beth Goodman Furst

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  Written by: Faith Lipton Grant and Charles Morris Jr.

What We Need & Where It Goes

We are seeking $5,000,000  to bring "Surviving Ben" to life. Your investment will go directly towards the essential costs of production, including:

• Casting: Securing talented actors who can bring the emotional depth to these complex characters.

• Locations: Filming in locations that authentically represent the world of the story, from the beaches of South Carolina to the streets of New York.

• Production Crew: Hiring a dedicated and professional crew to ensure the highest quality filmmaking.

• Post-Production: The editing, sound design, and music that will shape the final film.

Join Us

By investing in "Surviving Ben," you are not just funding a film; you are joining a movement. You are helping to create a powerful tool for advocacy and change. You are honoring the memory of Ben and so many others like him.

Be a part of bringing this important and timely story to the world. Let's make a film that entertains, enlightens, and, most importantly, has the power to save lives.

Contribute today and help us tell the story of "Surviving Ben."