FINDING TONY

Former NBA star Tony Greene is a clinically depressed alcoholic who often spends his time thinking about the moment that changed his life forever: Eighteen years ago, he tragically lost the love of his life in a horrific home invasion. The incident sent him into a state of depression, and he subsequently retired from the NBA. In an effort to help Tony get his life back on track, Dr. Terrence Daniel (Tony's best friend) convinces him to coach the Lincoln Community College women's basketball team. On the first day of tryouts, Tony meets Destiny, a 17-year-old orphan with a bad attitude and an incredible jump shot. Their personalities immediately clash, but Tony sees enormous potential in Destiny that he has never seen before. As the season progresses, Destiny lets down her walls and bonds with her team in an unexpected way. Just when Tony thought he had truly lost it all, his star player helps him to find his destiny.

With Finding Tony, I found it important for us to explore the impact that mentors can have on our lives. In addition to exploring the ramifications of both positive and negative mentorship, we also examine the importance of team and family dynamics in a nontraditional and very unexpected way. By touching on serious topics like mental health within the structure of a compelling film, we have the opportunity to both inform and entertain. The initial response to the film has been amazing, and I can't wait to see what the future holds for Finding Tony.

-Raven Magwood Goodson, Writer/Producer/Director