Everest Entertainment Expands Philanthropic Platform With Scenarios USA Partnership

NEW YORK, April 26, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Today in connection with the release of its latest film, Mud, Everest Entertainment, a New York City-based film production company, has announced the expansion of its philanthropic platform through a new partnership with Scenarios USA, a non-profit organization that supports students in underserved communities through an in-depth writing curriculum and filmmaking component in public schools. As part of the initiative, Everest will grant Scenarios USA a portion of the proceeds from Mud, starring Matthew McConaughey and Reese Witherspoon and assist in the production of future REAL DEAL films as well as the development of curriculum-enriching special events for the students who the organization serves.

In recognition of their contribution, Everest was honored by Scenarios USA at its 2013 REAL DEAL Gala & Premiere on Wednesday, April 24 at the Edison Ballroom in New York City.  The event also premiered 2013 winning student films, "The Tale of Timmy Two Chins" by Luis Hernandez and "Speechless" by Roxy Lasker-Hall, which will be used in classrooms with lesson plans throughout the country as well as aired on Showtime and Telemundo.

Earlier in the week, Everest's Lisa Maria Falcone & Tom Heller hosted more than sixty Scenarios USA students at a private pre-screening of Mud, which opens in theaters nationwide today. The students were joined by the film's Director, Jeff Nichols, who discussed behind-the-scenes aspects of the film's production and his own career in the entertainment industry.

"Seeing the films that Scenarios USA is able to produce had a profound impact on me, which is what inspired us to partner with Scenarios USA," said Everest Entertainment Founder Lisa Maria Falcone. "Two of my passions in life are helping children in need and making life-changing films, and by partnering with Scenarios USA I have the opportunity to make a difference on both of those fronts. It is clear that this organization helps children build confidence through finding their personal and creative voices, and I am honored to help enable that journey for children throughout New York City."

"We see a great deal of synergy in Everest Entertainment's work and the Scenarios USA mission as we are both advocates for powerful storytelling and films that will change lives," said Maura Minsky, Scenarios USA Co-Founder & Executive Director. "We were proud to honor Everest at our Gala and are excited to have the opportunity to collaborate with such a like-minded and passionate organization moving forward."

In 2008, Lisa Maria Falcone founded Everest Entertainment to enable uniquely talented writers and directors to create thought provoking films that address complex issues impacting society. As part of its business-model, Everest Entertainment contributes profits from each of its films to causes that align with the company's mission and the themes addressed in their work.

About Everest Entertainment

Everest Entertainment is a New York City-based independent production company that specializes in film and music. Everest films focus on strong writing and complex characters that tell stories about important issues impacting society. It was founded by Lisa Maria Falcone in 2008 and works to identify and support great talent, while protecting artists' vision and integrity to create unique, thought provoking films. The company's motion picture credits include the upcoming film Mud, directed by Jeff Nichols, Thomas McCarthy's Win Win, Rodrigo Garcia's Mother and Child and Danny Boyle's 127 Hours, which was nominated for six Academy Awards including Best Motion Picture. On the music side, Falcone has produced Grammy Award-winning artist Swizz Beatz's album titled Haute Living, featuring such artists as Jay-Z, Mary J. Blige, John Legend and Coldplay. The legacy of Everest Entertainment projects continues long after the release of a film or series or record through a substantial investment in ongoing philanthropic programs related to the theme of each work.

About Scenarios USA

Founded in 1999, Scenarios USA is a national non-profit organization that uses writing and film to foster youth leadership, advocacy and self-expression in students across the country with a focus on marginalized populations and underserved communities. Scenarios USA was built on the belief that by valuing youth and listening to their opinions, we can promote healthy relationships and empower a new generation of engaged citizens. 

SOURCE Everest Entertainment