Jens Pulver: Driven

One of our students, Jason Appelman, has been working on a film project. He is a film writer, amongst other types of writing. He wrote and starred in the movie you may have seen this past fall at the Egyptian- Person of Interest.

Now Jason and his partner, Gregory Bayne, are working on a new and exciting documentary about a well known mixed martial artist. If you've followed the Ulimate Fighting Challenge, then you definately know who he is. The exciting part is that he lives here in Idaho.

I am going to turn it over to Jason & Gregory and allow them to have a few words...


My Dear Friends,

I am writing you as I am in the final hours of a campaign to raise funds for my feature documentary film, DRIVEN, at Kickstarter.com. Since launching it just 17 days ago I have raised (at this moment) $17,350 from 279 gracious backers, including a 12 year old who contributed his allowance because of how much he loves the subject of my film, Jens Pulver.

Jens, for those of you that don't know, is a former 3 time world champion in the UFC, and a true legend in the sport. He was raised in the worst of situations with an incredibly abusive father who, when Jens was just 7 years old, decided he didn't want to have children anymore and lined up Jens, and his siblings in front of the fireplace holding a shotgun in Jens's mouth until he finally decided that they weren't, "worth the bullets." From that tragedy, saved by a drive forged through athletics, Jens escaped the demons of his childhood to become on of the most beloved fighters in the world of mixed martial arts.

I believe whole heartedly in this film, and in Jens, who is one of the most remarkable people I have ever met in my entire life. He reflects the fight in us all, and reminds us that no matter what our circumstance, if we hold onto, and pursue our dreams, we can accomplish anything.
My total goal on Kickstarter to make this film is $25,000. If I don't reach it by Monday at 3pm, all the pledges are cancelled, and I don't receive the funding. I sincerely thank those of you whom have contributed already, if you have not, I humbly ask that you take a look at my campaign, and if you can, please contribute. (there are rewards for doing so)

I understand that not everyone can contribute financially, I know times are tough on us all. If you wouldn't mind, I would appreciate you simply passing this on.
I can say, in all seriousness, this is the most important project I have ever worked on, and a story that I believe must be told. I think Jens has stated it best:

"To me, if this film can reach just one kid, who is living through abuse, and it can open his or her eyes to the fact that there is more to this life, prompting them to put on some wrestling shoes, or pick up a football, or basketball, or to write a song, or paint a picture, whatever it is that is their thing...if it can help them recognize that their dreams are worthwhile, should be held onto, and with perseverance, dedication, and hard work, can absolutely be achieved, well, that's what it's all about."

I share this sentiment, and this hope for the film. I would be deeply grateful if you would join in, and help make this happen.

With Warm Regards,

Gregory Bayne

Here is the link: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/gregorybayne/jens-pulver-driven-a-documentary-film-about-a-le