Step. It's something we all do every day. We get up; we move around, we go back to bed. Have you ever wondered where each step would take you? What if there was a way to tell a story about those steps; about the people we encounter and the stories that come of it? Now there is. Step is a new cinematic documentary with the vision of showing viewers the reality of the world around them, revealing different cultures and the challenges of the people who live in them.

Ever since I was young, I have always wanted to tell a story—using video as a medium—to inspire and to compel those who watch to think differently about the world they live in. This summer, my dream of creating that documentary is coming true. From July 5th to July 27th, 2010, I plan to lead a three member team to Zimbabwe to document the first in what I hope to be many documentaries. Here are the basics:

We’re headed to an orphanage outside of the city of Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. Bulawayo is the second largest city in Zimbabwe. We’re calling this location a “drop-zone”, the place where the story will begin. When we arrive, we will immerse ourselves into the culture, and begin to tell a story.

What story will we tell?  We don’t know yet.  There are many aspects of Zimbabwe whose story needs to be told—from the village life on the outskirts of civilization to the influence and power the black market has over the economy.  There are many paths we can take. Admittedly, it is difficult to promote something vague, but when we reach Zimbabwe, we will find that story.

Once we return to the states, the documentary will be released through local venues with the goal of opening people’s eyes to the larger world around them—compelling them to take steps outside their comfort zone themselves. When the film is done, it will be available for download here on our website. Experience the world as the story unfolds wherever those steps take us.

~joel gerlach