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Meditate and Destroy- NOW ON DVD!!!



Last Updated: 11/21/2009

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City: SAN FRANCISCO
State: California
Country: US

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Tuesday, December 01, 2009 

Current mood:  cheerful
Category: Religion and Philosophy
Walking the Tightrope: The Journey of Making MEDITATE AND DESTROY (written by Director, Sarah Fisher)

Total # of years spent making the film: Four

Credit card debt: Over $40,000

Health Issues: Chronic fatigue and Chronic headaches

Total # of Editors Who Quit: Four

Final Budget: Approximately $80,00

Apartment Evictions Skirted: One

Why I Made this Quirky Film: I love to meditate (as crazy as it sounds).

When I approached Noah to make MEDITATE AND DESTROY, I felt very lucky. I had dreamed of making a film about Buddhism that would connect with younger audiences. I simply asked him, "I'm a dharma junkie and a film addict, so can I make a film on you?" He was so gracious and fully supportive of the film. We filmed him for 2 years in cities around the country: Portland, Seattle, New York, San Francisco, and Santa Cruz. I had a blast attending his Urban Dharma classes and going to the Santa Cruz Juvenile Hall seeing the light shine in so many kids eyes who had never been exposed to the beauty of mindfulness meditation. The outpouring of support from the community toward the production of MEDITATE AND DESTROY was amazing. We easily raised money and talented film professionals offered to work on the film for free.

But, shortly after the production began, it quickly became apparent that making MEDITATE AND DESTROY would be the most arduous journey of my whole life. Like anyone who has reached the top of Mount Everest, I'm now speechless and feel humbled looking back on the journey of putting one foot in front of another to eventually look down from the summit. I think the most important lesson I've learned is that following your passion is the life the universe wants you to lead. I also learned a great deal about letting go of preconceived notions of the way things are "supposed" to be.

After the production glow wore off, I fumbled quite miserably through post-production and faced countless obstacles I never expected. I knew that making an independent feature film would not be a bed of roses- but facing so much stress sometimes felt like being a part of a circus act. I constantly felt as if I was walking on a tightrope- at any moment my life could be out of balance due to lack of money, resources, or insufficient energy to continue.

Film grant rejection letters kept stacking up. A new editor quit every month because we couldn't afford to pay them a regular rate. I had to quit my full-time job so that I could focus on editing the film myself. As a result, I slipped into poverty and faced eviction. Harassment calls from creditors I couldn't pay began. I developed chronic fatigue and chronic headaches and had no health insurance. Noah wanted to be more involved in the creative side of the film and we argued a lot. I had to be clear that there is a boundary between filmmaker and film subject that needed to be maintained to keep the purity of the documentary.

Creating the animation sequence that shows Noah hitting rock bottom with experimental visuals was of HUGE importance to me. The animation post-production team spent an entire year trying to create the sequence and they hit one wall after another. What I didn't know is that to get it completed would literally take as much energy as creating an entirely separate feature film. I felt the animation sequence needed to be much a visceral experience (versus using dry visuals). It was so essential to not use dry visuals in order to effectively tell the story of Noah's transformation.  Everyone I consulted with told me it was impossible on our low-budget and even if we did have the money it would take an inordinate amount of time to complete. The techniques we tried failed but I knew no matter what we would come up with something that would work. Despite slow progress, I couldn't neglect the goal to get it completed. I had absolutely no prior animation experience so I was completely in the dark. I poured through animation resources trying to come up with a solution. Finally, when I was least expecting it, I discovered the 3-D virtual world called Second Life which was an absolute dream for a DIY (do-it-yourself) filmmaker. Second Life allowed us create the sequence without laboring through create a frame-by-frame animation piece. Instead we used a technique called 'machinima' which is a unique cross-between animation and traditional filmmaking.  (Disclaimer: I worked for Linden Lab- creators of Second Life- for two years after completing MEDITATE AND DESTROY).

After what seemed like surviving an avalanche of obstacles, we completed the film. Looking back, I can laugh with the understanding that struggle is an illusion. It is always a temporary state of mind.

We decided to premiere at the Santa Cruz Film Festival (where Noah grew up). I gave a copy of the rough cut beforehand to Noah and was really nervous to hear what his feedback would be. At a meeting at his apartment in Los Angeles, he told me he cried. He said it was a very emotional experience for him seeing the entire journey of his life in the form of documentary. There were some parts he didn't like and asked me to consider his input. I listened and thanked him for the feedback. As the director, I had the final cut.

My film doesn't tiptoe around or sugar coat the hard issues we all face in spiritual practice: spiritual materialism, not being attached to our success or reputation, and the many insidious ways the ego can rear its ugly head in our closest relationships.

In the punk world there is a blanket understanding that "smashing idols" and rejecting anything that represents mainstream society unites the community. The minute a punk rocker gets any level of mass media attention, they begin walking on a tightrope. Selling out is the worst thing a punk can do. It's all a matter of perception of course.

In the Buddhist world, spiritual materialism is the biggest danger that has the potential to destroy the purity of Buddhism in the West. Until we are enlightened, self-grasping ignorance forms the basis for everything we do. Buddhism helps us maintain inner peace by cultivating awakened qualities in our own minds. We start to consistently notice our selfish tendencies and slowly work to let our true nature (love and compassion) inform the actions of our lives. We try to maintain an intention to abandon attachment to worldly pursuits.

My film does not draw any conclusions on Noah's future on whether he will become a Guru, start running a Dharma Punx enterprise that overshadows the actual dharma teachings, or plainly continue on the path of awareness all the way to enlightenment in his lifetime. The greatest lesson I hope viewers will take away is that the spiritual path is not a linear one. There are many peaks and valleys.

The DIY (do-it-yourself) spirit is the whole philosophy behind the making of the film.  Instead of trying to be the next Sundance or Cannes hit, we decided to pursue alternative avenues of distribution. We created the 108 Rampage Tour and then won the opportunity to be part of a 6-month long film showcase called From Here to Awesome (www.fromheretoawesome.com) that gave us a lot of exposure. From Here to Awesome festival (founded by veteran indie filmmakers Lance Weiler, Arin Crumley, and M Dot Strange) is completely innovative in bringing digital distribution and alternative theatrical screening opportunities to filmmakers simultaneously. It was a fantastic opportunity to be a part of a collective of filmmakers who were all supporting one another. We were like the underground railroad of filmmakers- the rest of the industry had said they didn’t want us but we would not be shut out. We were all empowering one another to take the great leap forward into the unknown- on the route of successful self-distribution (where most filmmakers hesitate to go). We released the film on half a dozen websites for downloads and live streaming. We collectively organized screenings in alternative venues like bars, backyards, public parks, and nightclubs.

FHTA has a great vision to change the film industry. I think like any alternative system, it will take time to successfully operate in a reverse scenario from the current film industry. In five years from now, I expect the rest of the industry will be taking notice and looking at how they can follow in the FHTA footsteps. After employing this radical self-distribution strategy, not-so-strangely the universe answered our prayers for wider distribution. Alive Mind Media granted us a distribution deal for DVD, broadcast, and theatrical rights. This whole journey taught me that not having big expectations and letting go of attachment to results is often the most fruitful (and most peaceful) approach.

I believe MEDITATE AND DESTROY is a great vehicle for audiences to explore what spiritual practice means in this modern world. There are so few films out there that directly examine the possibilities of integrating mindfulness practice with a modern life. I felt MEDITATE AND DESTROY was the perfect opportunity to allow audiences on a mass level to see how transformative meditation practice can be for anyone.

The intention of the film is to open a door so that audiences can begin to question their own spiritual journey. I hope many people will begin to explore how they can bring positive qualities into their own lives despite the myriad hardships we all face. To have a truly peaceful society, we need as many people as possible practicing mindfulness with sincerity and strong effort- not the usual soft approach the mainstream media encourages us to take for self-improvement so we can feel warm and fuzzy inside.

Buddha said, "Our mind creates reality." One of the best lessons I've learned in 9 years of Buddhist practice is to question everything I think I know to be true and consistently examine my own faults. We draw so many conclusions in our lives believing that things actually exist outside our minds. Sadly, we create so many enduring problems for ourselves.

A fun way to practice the dharma is by imagining that you are the last person to be enlightened. Everyone you meet could be a Buddha. Every direct interaction (whether pleasant or unpleasant) could be the best lesson you ever learned. Which means even the punk rock guy with tattoos who looks like he just got out of prison could be the kindest person you've ever met and have something meaningful to offer to your life.

Please enjoy the film (but, remember, it does not exist outside your own mind).

Much love,

Sarah
xxoo
3:41 AM 
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Thursday, November 19, 2009 

Category: Religion and Philosophy
Dear friends,

We just released a BRAND NEW video on our YouTube Channel! This is a post-screening Q&A w/ Noah Levine and Film Director, Sarah Fisher, in San Francisco. Check it out here:



Subscribe to our YT Channel (we will be releasing more vids in the near future):

http://www.youtube.com/meditateanddestroy

To buy the DVD, please visit:
http://www.meditateanddestroy.com

Also, CHECK OUT OUR NEW FLYER (and spread it!!):

http://img41.imageshack.us/img41/6407/mdpostcardweb.jpg

May all beings be happy. May all beings be free from suffering.
9:38 PM 
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Saturday, October 10, 2009 
We are very excited to announce that the MEDITATE AND DESTROY Merch Store on Cafepress.com is now open!! Blue Lotus Films is an independent film company that relies on support from individuals like you.

Revenue from the store will go towards paying off the thousands of dollars of debt incrued while making the film. 10% of proceeds will go towards the International Temples Project.

Purchase a MEDITATE AND DESTROY hoodie, t-shirt, trucker hat, tote bag, and other EXCLUSIVE products today!! 

CLICK HERE TO ORDER!!!

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VISIT THE MERCH STORE NOW!!!
8:59 PM 
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Sunday, August 30, 2009 

Category: Religion and Philosophy

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Dharma Merchant Services is uniquely devoted to providing payment processing accounts in a manner that reflects the compassion, respect, and fairness that is at the core of their beliefs (right action, right intentions, right livelihood, etc .)  As a socially responsible business, Dharma MS donates 10% of gross processing revenues to worthwhile non profit organizations.

Dharma MS will donate to the International Temples Project on behalf of Blue Lotus Films for every DVD that is sold through this website.



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CLICK TO VISIT THE OFFICIAL FILM WEBSITE

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8:13 PM 
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Saturday, August 29, 2009 

Current mood:  amused





ORDER A DVD and receive a FREE Mount Sinai CD "Beyond Words"!! LIMITED OFFER!!!

****A portion of proceeds from DVD sales will benefit the International Temples Project****

Mount Sinai is a conscious hip-hop artist weaving 15 years of spiritual study into his inspiring lyrics. His track "The Way" is featured on the MEDITATE AND DESTROY soundtrack. Find out more about Mount Sinai here: www.sounds-profound.com

ORDER YOUR DVD to get the FREE CD here:
ORDER DVD

DVD INCLUDES 1 HOUR of BONUS EXTRAS!!
*Deleted Scenes
*Extended Live Performances by Good Riddance and Bold
*Additional interviews with Jack Kornfield, Stephen and Ondrea Levine, and Ajahn Amaro
*Bonus footage of Noah Levine's teachings
*Behind-the-scenes interview on his book Against the Stream

Directer/Videographer/Editor: Sarah Fisher
Produced by: Sarah Fisher and Elizabeth Morse

*FILM INCLUDES A 3-MINUTE ANIMATED SEQUENCE SHOT IN THE VIRTUAL 3-D WORLD SECOND LIFE*

Go here to ORDER NOW: http://www.meditateanddestroy.com
5:53 PM 
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Friday, August 21, 2009 

Category: Religion and Philosophy
Check out this radio interview with Director/Producer Sarah Fisher on "Good Karma Stories"!!

--Hear some amazing good karma stories from the making of MEDITATE AND DESTROY

--How did the film distribution (despite limited theatrical release) end up being really GREAT karma for the film industry as a whole?

--Hear music from conscious hip-hop artist, Mount Sinai, who is on the M&D soundtrack. Find out how you can get a FREE "Beyond Words" CD!

--Is her next project a Buddhist film?

LISTEN NOW!!

..

GOOD KARMA STORIES

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http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Good_Karma_Stories

6:46 PM 
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Wednesday, August 19, 2009 
Listen to an interview with Director/Producer, Sarah Fisher, on THURSDAY AUGUST 20th @ 8 p.m. PST/ 11 p.m EST. She will take questions so call in with some intriguing ones! :-D

GOOD KARMA STORIES
hosted by Ed Moy

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Topics we will discuss include karma, inner rebellion, how to make 'sacred cinema', and much more!!

Here is the call in ph # for listeners: 341-994-3218

We will ALSO hear music from Mount Sinai who is an underground hip-hop artist including on the MEDITATE AND DESTROY soundtrack. Beginning on THURSDAY, you will receive a FREE CD by Mount Sinai called "Beyond Words" when you order a DVD (promo limit is 25 copies):

CHECK OUT MOUNT SINAI'S MUSIC

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ORDER THE DVD NOW
11:49 PM 
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Thursday, August 13, 2009 

Current mood:  blessed
The DVD release is this FRIDAY AUGUST 14, 2009!!!

Thanks for having patience like the mountains. I hope you will thoroughly enjoy the film and the BONUS features on the DVD. For more details on all the bonus extras, check out our website:

FILM WEBSITE

We decided to skip the pre-ordering. Just go straight to our website on AUGUST 14th to order the DVD. It will be shipped the same day!

NAMASTE ALL!


5:21 AM 
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Thursday, July 30, 2009 
Dear Friends,

Our DVD will be on sale in August! Pre-ordering coming soon! Keep an eye on our website:

www.meditateanddestroy.com

Thanks for your support!

xoxo,

Sarah










4:04 AM 
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Thursday, October 30, 2008 

Current mood:  blessed
Check out this film review from the MTV Movies blog:



CLICK HERE to read
9:21 AM 
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