The Product
A few years ago, a docudrama titled "The Contested Plains" was produced, telling the moving story of the John and Lydia German family, settlers on their journey from Georgia to Colorado. Caught in the overflow of the Red River war between American Indians and the expanding US culture, the family was brutally attacked, and four girls, Catherine, Sophia, Julia, and Addie German, became captives. After grueling months and heroic efforts, the girls were rescued. The incredible part of the story, however, is the eventual embrace of forgiveness. Even after the worst transgressions, hope remains for peace!
Recently, a new group has obtained the rights to do additional work on the film, and is now at work adding additional scenes, editing the docudrama into a feature film, and honing the story of the German family. When completed, we will work towards distribution. Hopefully, presenting the film in theaters and streaming services.
To accomplish this, Smoky Hills River Productions is seeking funding.
The Industry
Independent films have become increasingly successful over the past decade, as additional markets have emerged through streaming and non-exclusive deals made available to independent film producers. This industry has been changing over recent years, and we are poised to take advantage of new opportunities, and experience learned through other projects.
The Market
Independent movies have achieved success in both theatrical and online and streaming markets.
The interest in Western movies and mini-series, such as Yellowstone and 1883, has drawn continued attention back to the Western genre. Additionally, older shows such as Little House on the Prairie, the Waltons, and Longmire are in public focus.