An 11:11 EXPERIENCE (Production Company), run by partners Michael Leoni, Michelle Kaufer, and Erica Katzin, is a Los Angeles based production company dedicated to creating projects that promote social change. 11:11 was conceived from the idea that film and theatre have the capacity to create connection, encourage compassion and engage and inspire audiences. Founded in 2004, 11:11 focuses on developing powerful stories and compelling characters that encourage people to see the world from a new point of view.
From powerful documentaries to inspiring narratives and innovative theatre, 11:11 is committed to producing work that’s brave, provocative and significant.
Current projects include: American Street Kid, a powerful, award-winning, feature-length documentary, that takes us onto the streets and into the real lives of America’s homeless youth, currently available on Amazon Prime, iTunes, GooglePlay; When Today Ends, a narrative feature that confronts the tragic reality of teen suicide, scheduled for release in May 2021; and Famous, an innovative melding of live theatre and narrative filmmaking that delves deep into the behind-closed-doors side of sexual abuse in 90’s Hollywood.
"Michael Leoni continues his run of emotionally impactful stories."
- Irish Film Critic
AMERICAN STREET KID (2020)
In American Street Kid, filmmaker Michael Leoni takes you on a journey into a world that most people don't know exists. A world where in order to survive, kids are forced to sell drugs, beg for money or sell their bodies. Their powerful stories are heartbreaking and their unrelenting hope and determination to create a better life shines through, in this true tale of love, friendship, and the triumph of the human spirit.
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MamasGeeky.com Review: Famous
Famous Review: Heavy Subject Matter, But Still Demands A Watch
By: AuthorTessa Smith Posted on: December 9, 2021
Famous is a movie with very heavy subject matter, but it still demands a watch, if only to be a voice for those who have gone through what the characters have.
The interesting thing about Famous is that it is a play, a stage show, that was filmed and brought to life as a movie. While it is filmed on a movie set, it captures the feel of live theater, but in film form, which is rare and unique. The story, for those who don’t know, is intriguing from the start, even though it is clear that things are going to get dark. Parts of it can be hard to watch for any member of the audience, but particularly those who have been abused. There are triggers, so be warned, however the message is a powerful one, and something that everyone should keep with them.
The best thing about this film is the cast. This is the same cast from the stage show, and that becomes very clear, very quickly. Not only do they have an unmatched chemistry, but it is obvious how deeply they become these characters. They know them inside and out, and certainly the characters mean a lot to them, even if they are different from them in real life.
There are a lot of powerful messages here about standing up for what is right, saying no — and that no means no. Famous also dives deeply into what the effects of trauma can be on individuals, whether it be drug use, or craving that attention from anyone and everyone. Both of which, certainly aren’t the right way to deal with it.
The movie itself truly gives the audience the impression that they are watching a live performance. This is a testament not only to the incredible cast, who clearly know these characters inside and out, but to the cinematography and the editing.
Unfortunately, there are a lot of people out there who have gone through something like this, whether it was in order to get ahead in the Entertainment industry or not. Famous is just one way to get their stories out there. It is one hundred percent a difficult watch, but I promise you, you will come out the other side of it better off.
Viewers are going to be sucked in almost immediately, and find themselves unable to look away as the story goes on. By the end, if you aren’t in tears, you didn’t watch it close enough.
About Famous
Driven by a devastating need to expose the truth, A-list celebrity Jason Mast pushes the boundaries of friendship to reveal the true cost of fame. What appears to be a night of celebration turns out to be an intricate plan to confront his past.
Written and directed by Michael Leoni, FAMOUS stars CJ Valleroy, Brooke Butler, Josh Pafchek, and Chris Kattan. The film was produced by Erica R. Katzin, Michelle Kaufer, and Michael Leoni, and Executive Produced by Martine Melloul, Howard Barish, Dawn Dunning, and Inbal B. Lessner.
“I am honored to be a part of the Famous team and to help get this film the exposure it deserves. Speaking out about the abuse of power in the entertainment industry is something that I strongly believe in. We don’t often talk about the abuse of young men, but it’s time that we do,” said Executive Producer Dawn Dunning, a former actress who testified against Harvey Weinstein.
“The fact that film has the capacity to entertain and also provide commentary on an important social issue is why we do what we do. FAMOUS takes us back to Young Hollywood in the 90’s and not only melds the mediums of theatre and film, it also speaks to the abuse of power in the entertainment industry from a perspective that’s rarely discussed,” said Erica R. Katzin, Michelle Kaufer, and Michael Leoni in a joint statement.
“I have a deep love and respect for independent films when they’re done right. FAMOUS is definitely one of those films and it’s also so timely both in style and content. Michael Leoni has done it once again and I’m extremely proud to be working with him,” said Howard Barish of Kandoo Films.
Famous comes to select theaters on December 10th. Famous will also be available to own on digital HD Internet, cable, and satellite platforms worldwide through Kandoo Films on December 10th.