On the Streets, Every Breath Counts
Witness to Breath
a short film
In the heart of the city, a young woman and an old dog find hope and solace in each other. Join their journey of survival and unexpected companionship.
About the Film
Logline: A young woman, living a dangerous life on the streets, takes in an elderly dog left behind when his owner is killed in a robbery. Though not a dog person, their brief relationship changes her in ways she could never have expected.
WITNESS TO BREATH is a short film project directed and produced by award-winning filmmaker Doug Conant that exposes the harsh realities faced by marginalized young women trapped in prostitution and trafficking, and highlights the healing power of dogs.
Delving into one young woman’s life, “Girl’s” story explores the complex circumstances of her struggles and their intersection with broader societal problems like poverty, violence against women, and trauma. It invites audiences to feel the lasting effects of these realities. While “Girl’s” situation is raw and real, her story is steeped in the dreams of those lost everywhere.
With a moving narrative, this film also showcases how a dog’s companionship profoundly impacts trauma recovery and fosters new perspectives on life. “Dog” offers “Girl” what she’s never had before: unconditional love, emotional support, and a sense of purpose. These qualities make dogs trusted allies in the journey toward improved well-being.
Through their journey together, WITNESS TO BREATH reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of love and companionship.
You’ll love this film if you…
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Enjoy emotionally rich, character-driven, and cinematic films
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Have a soft spot for animals and love stories about their impact on humans
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Appreciate tales of human resilience and finding hope and strength in difficult times
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Value kindness and empathy, and seek stories about human connection
Director's Statement
WITNESS TO BREATH is not just a film, it’s a heartfelt journey born from my deep admiration for those who find hope in the most unexpected places. I’m enraged by the complex circumstances that entrap a person in prostitution and trafficking, and fascinated by the extraordinary power of animals to heal our emotional wounds.
I want to capture a world that, while dark, is imbued with hope. With a refined, slightly retro cinematic style, I’ll explore the raw emotions and silent bond between a lonely human and a lonely dog, both yearning for a home.
Based on Catherine Ryan Hyde’s moving story, this film is my homage to humanity’s incredible capacity for resilience and empathy. I invite you to witness their lives, their strength, and their dignity.
– Doug Conant, Director
Character Descriptions
“Girl”
A stoic yet vulnerable 20-year-old woman coerced to work the streets for many years, but has managed to remember the girl she once was.
She finds an unexpected companion in an old dog, offering her a glimpse of what she’s never had: unconditional love and a sense of purpose.
“Dog”
A sweet and soulful dog abandoned after his owner is murdered in a robbery. Grieving and alone, Dog forms an instant and deep bond with Girl.
They guide each other on a soul-searching journey of transformation, experiencing the most profound revelations of their lives.
From the Heart Productions, Inc. is honored to provide fiscal sponsorship for the film WITNESS TO BREATH. We carefully select the films we sponsor, and believe that this project will make a positive contribution to society and to the field of filmmaking… We are proud to endorse this project and encourage you to support it.
The Team
From the Heart Productions // fiscal sponsor, nonprofit production company
From the Heart Productions is dedicated to helping independent filmmakers with unique films that make a contribution to society. They have been successfully funding films since their inception in 1993 under the 501(c)(3) and 509(a)(2) Internal Revenue codes. As such, any monetary donations to WITNESS TO BREATH will qualify as charitable contributions under the U.S. Tax Code. Interested in contributing?
Doug Conant // director, producer
Doug is an award-winning director, writer, and producer noted for his nuanced visual storytelling, creative agility, and leadership. A graduate of Brooks Institute in Santa Barbara, his projects include “Sleeping,” a multi-award-winning coming-of-age mystery that aired nationally on BET, and “Broken,” a sensitive portrayal of rape survivors that’s used in crisis centers and the US Army. As a production administrator at WBTV, he contributed to hit series like “Supernatural” and “One Tree Hill.”
Catherine Ryan Hyde // author, short story
Catherine (Pay It Forward) is a prolific, award-winning New York Times bestselling author. She is acclaimed for her emotionally resonant novels, characterized by poignant storytelling and exploration of themes like human connection, resilience, and redemption. Catherine founded the Pay It Forward Foundation and served as president until 2009. An avid hiker, traveler, equestrian, dog lover, photographer, and astrophotographer, she lives in California.
Nancy Schreiber // cinematographer
A multi-award-winning cinematographer, Nancy was the fourth woman ever voted into membership in the prestigious American Society of Cinematographers and was recently the first woman to be honored with the ASC President’s Award. Sundance Film Festival Best Cinematography winner, Emmy nominee; credits include “P-Town,” “Station 19,” “The Fosters,” Miss Virginia, Shadow Magic, Serious Moonlight, Loverboy, Your Friends & Neighbors.
Mike Newport // composer
Mike is an award-winning composer who collaborates globally with outstanding directors and producers on film, television, interactive, and commercial projects. Winner of the APRA Silver Scroll Award for Best Original Music in a Feature Film (Mega Time Squad) and nominee for Best Music in a Series (Alibi) for APRA and NZTV Craft Awards. His music is in trailer spots for PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN, Netflix Original “Altered Carbon” and many others, and he has written music for some of the world’s biggest brands including Google, Vodafone, Boeing, FedEx, and Netflix.
Support Our Journey
Your contribution will make a significant difference in bringing WITNESS TO BREATH to life. Help us share this powerful story to raise awareness by donating today.
Your support is fully tax-deductible through our fiscal sponsor, From the Heart Productions, a respected 501(c)(3) nonprofit with over 30 years of experience producing impactful films. Every dollar counts and brings us closer to our $60,000 goal.
** Do you represent an organization that’s interested in getting involved? We want to talk to you.
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Get in Touch
We’d love to hear from you! Whether you have questions, feedback, or just want to connect, reach out to us through our contact form. You can also email us directly or follow us on social media for more updates.