ABOUT THE PROJECT
Breakthrough is a documentary that explores how athletes face identity crises and depression after a life-altering event that results in their removal from the sport on a professional level. Utilizing football as the hook, this project presents the importance of seeking community and professional assistance to help bring closure to their former identities in the NFL through group therapy.
For many football players, their love for the sport begins at a young age and advances into playing collegiate ball and then even the rare opportunity to play in the NFL. It is well documented that players of any age and level have felt the weight of the reality that they may not make it to the next stage.
According to the NCAA, there are over 1 million high school football players and only 7.3% of them make it to the collegiate level. Additionally, only 1.6% of college players make it to the NFL. Unfortunately, some have fallen victim to the pressure to succeed. A study by the National Institute of Health published in 2016 shows there is a large number of completed suicides among current and retired NFL players of 42.3% since 2009.
Without the game, how does one cope with the inability to pursue their life’s purpose?
In this documentary, we will witness a passionate conversation about the physical and mental strain of being an athlete and the current obstacles being endured. This story is told through former NFL player D’Joun Smith's journey, as he opens up for the first time about his suicide attempt after being let go from the Colts in 2015.
TRAILER
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TEAM
JaMar Jones
Director
As the director, my passion lies in telling stories that shed light on the human condition and explore the potential for positive change in individuals and communities. This project presents an opportunity to utilize the community of football enthusiasts and the healing power of therapy to inspire countless viewers in need of a BREAKTHROUGH!”
Jared A. Johnston
Executive Producer
“Turning the general idea of my book into a film has been an exhilarating journey. As Executive Producer of BREAKTHROUGH, I aim to provide the audience with an unflinching look at the double-edged influence of football in America. I want to make sure former athletes, like myself, are successful after their playing days are over. Ultimately rediscovering themselves and becoming an asset to society.”
LaTonya Joyce
Producer
“I bring my background in finance and passion for film to each project. BREAKTHROUGH represents a struggle that so many athletes and artists of many disciplines face when their main outlet or plan to pursue that passion shifts. I think as filmmakers we can also relate to such a change and the mental/emotional journey it takes to find acceptance.”
Alexis Lorraine Chinery
Director of Photography
“As a cinematographer, I pride myself on producing imagery that sparks change and reveals truth for those of underrepresented cultures. BREAKTHROUGH not only sheds light on a crisis that gets overlooked in the football community but the film also works to erase the stigma of male athletes, specifically black male athletes, seeking support amongst one another to live a life of resilience after a certain chapter is closed.”
BEHIND THE SCENES
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CONTACT US
TO OUR SUPPORTERS
We want to say thank you for allowing us the opportunity to display our vision. We hope our ideas/values persuade you to join us on this quest to tell a story so compelling. If you are interested in reviewing our production deck please reach out.
CONTACT INFO
jamar@sixpointpictures.com
contact@sixpointpictures.com
