The art of documentary filmmaking is a meticulous process, one that requires detailed planning, coordination, and execution Below is an overview of our progress with the production schedule that outlines the essential phases of producing the After Ike documentary.
Conceptualization & Research
We've finalized our research for the documentary through in-depth archival investigations. This included visits to local libraries in towns situated along the Lincoln Highway that the 1919 military convoy traversed, as well as the Eisenhower Library, the Library of Congress, and various online sources.
Scriptwriting & Storyboarding
The documentary draws inspiration from "After Ike," written by Ambassador Michael Owen. The book lays the groundwork for the film, which delves into a historic military convoy from 1919. In tandem with the documentary, a new edition of the book has been released.
Equipment Procurement
Supply chain disruptions due to Covid-19 made procuring equipment difficult. However, we've successfully addressed these challenges.
Location Scouting & Interviewee Scheduling
The army maintained a comprehensive record of the military convoy, giving us insights into every location where the "truck train" halted overnight. We've journeyed across the United States several times, scouting sites and arranging interviews. Our final location scouting will be completed in Fall 2023.
Principal Photography
Most interviews and primary filming are completed. We have completed the last segments of the Lincoln Highway between Salt Lake City, Utah, and Canton, Ohio. The stretch from San Francisco to Salt Lake City was successfully filmed in June and July 2023.
Fine Cut & Sound Design
We anticipate having a fine cut prepared by March 2024.
Color Grading & Final Edits
We anticipate finishing the color grading by September 2024 using Davinci Resolve Studio.
Music & Graphics
Foley, sound design and music composition are expected to be completed by march 2024.
Final Review & Feedback
We anticipate scheduling the final review for June 2024, in collaboration with focus groups and in consultation with American University.
Marketing & Promotion
The website and promotional strategy are now in place. We aim to complete the producer's package by June 2024.
Submission to Festivals & Platforms
We are actively seeking festival submissions and exploring other avenues for promotion.
Premiere & Release
We expect to distribute the documentary in early 2026.