Bijuka PR Review

Below is the PR review I wrote for Bijuka. Bijuka was unique in that it featured the longest rape scene in Bollywood history. During filming the crew received death threats. 

Every campaign really is unique and turns into it's own monster.  Bijuka was an interesting project in that my clients where in Mumbai, India. The N. America producer was in CT and I was between New York and Cali. I had to work with 3 time zones, two very very different cultures and a definite language barriers.  

Synergy Media L.L.C. 2012 Sophie Lily Weinstein
BIJUKA
A Parshva Productions Film
Directed by Atul

Every person in the world is entitled to a fundamental set of human rights that allow him or her to live with dignity and self-respect. Unfortunately, for too long women have been regarded as less than human, and therefore, not entitled to these human rights.

SUMMARY
Bijuka tells the story of Lalli and Painku, a young couple thrust into an arranged marriage in rural northern India. Suffering greatly at the hand of her new family, Lalli attempts to dissolve her marriage citing Painku’s disinterest in consummating their union as just cause. After the village council orders Lalli to demonstrate her husband’s alleged impotence, the councilmen proceed to gang rape her while Painku keeps her restrained. Bloodied and in a state of shock, Lalli tracks down her husband and kills him with an axe. Lalli turned herself in for murder and is now serving a life sentence in Rajasthan.
Marketing and Public Relations Plan.

COMMUNICATION PLAN
Bijuk's communication plan and subsequent marketing strategy was unique in that the key scene in the film was the longest rape scene to be filmed in Bollywood’s history. Our approach and execution of the film’s marketing and public relations strategy acknowledged the rape scene but also highlighted the human rights issues the film address.

The Bijuka website and Facebook include links to organizations and movements that are working on the issues raised in the film

AUDEINCE
While we focused on niche groups, such as women’s and human rights activist our focus was aimed at a broader more diverse audience. The overarching goal of the film was to bring to light that while India is experiencing an economic boom, a growing middle class and significant social and cultural changes, much of the country is still deeply rooted in thousands of years of traditions of gender inequality.

MARKETING STRATEGY
Traditional marketing strategies were utilized but were supplemented with innovative on-line/viral campaign. This structured two pronged approach built momentum and created the greatest possible impact to our viewing audience. In additional too EPKs and advertising material we used a two panel iKyp. Our Ikyp was designed to physically engage our targeted audience by appealing to a combination of senses. It created intrigue and interest in the film, allowing people to interact and connect with the content at film festival markets.

Our patented* iKyp webkey™ is a unique way of bridging physical media and the digital world. The interactive iKyp format engages recipients with brand messages offline then drives them seamlessly online to learn more via the webkey. All they need to do is insert it in to a computer USB port and the destination site immediately launches. The iKyp webkey is the only technology that offers a unique ID fingerprint, allowing marketers to create personalized and progressive web experiences for their audiences, whilst tracking campaign efficacy and individual user behavior.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH 
In addition to using out-of-the-box strategies, a cornerstone of our plan was to unite with a nonprofit organization that would support the film’s core message and marketing efforts. Parshva Productions who produced Bijuka partnered with Breakthrough. Breakthrough is a global human rights organization that uses the power of media, pop culture, and community mobilization to inspire people to take bold actions for dignity, equality, and justice. Breakthrough empowers individuals and communities to stand for universal human rights by using multimedia tools that transform hearts and minds. Based in India and the United States, Breakthrough address critical global issues including violence against women, sexuality, and HIV/AIDS. In Spring 2012 Breakthrough will be screening Bijuka at their annual fund raiser.

This spring Breakthrough will be screening Bijuka during their annual fund raising event. The director will be the key speaker addressing both patrons and press.

FILM FESTIVALS
Key film festivals throughout the world were targeted based upon their influence in the film industry, strength of their film markets and past winning films. Ashtar Sayed, the director of the film recently won the 2011 “Grand Prix Honors for the Best Film of The Festival” at the International Filmmaker Festival in Kent, England and 11th Dhaka International Film Festival

On Thursday, February 23, 2012 the South by Southwest Film Conference and Festival (March 9-11) announced that Bijuka was nominated for the SX Global Award.

Press & Links
• IMDB
• Bijuka Facebook
• Bollywood Mantra
• Times of India
• Time of India
• Box Office India
• Prescrean
• Bangla Movie
• Movslib
• Dear Cinema

Complete List of Public Relations Capabilities

Complete List of Public Relations Capabilities Below are a list of basic services they Synergy Media Production provides.  We are  a full service film production and public relations firm. We are committed to creating innovative projects that stretch across all genera of film and media. Every project's communication plan and subsequent marketing strategy is unique Our approach and execution is customized to our client's needs and the needs of their end consumer. Traditional marketing practices are utilized but are supplemented by innovative online/viral campaigns. This structured approach builds momentum and creates the greatest possible impact.  Brand Building & Marketing Strategies Refining your message and differentiating you to strengthen sales, image and customer loyalty Cause Marketing Aligning businesses with not-for-profit organizations for heightened awareness and to improve sales and good will Collateral Materials  • Press Kits • News Releases • Pitch Letters • Biographies/Backgrounders • Op-ed/By-lined Articles • Speeches • Newsletters & other Collaterals • Brochures/Web Sites Community Relations Connecting you with the communities you serve to strengthen sales, image, employee morale and positive word of mout Expert Strategy Developing a strategy to become known as the expert in your industry Market Research Efforts to identify the demographics, needs, desires, buying patterns, etc. to help determine current or potential marketing focus Media Relations Skilled, proactive team that secures broadcast and print media to tell your story and reach your target audiences Media Training Preparing company spokesperson(s) to effectively communicate company messaging Measurement Implementing proprietary measurement tactics and strategies to ensure a return on investment New Product Introductions Strategies that get your products or services noticed, strengthening sales and distribution News Conferences Conceiving and producing news conferences, coordinating satellite feeds Newsletters Creative unique formats designed to get people's attention and achieve your goals Op-ed/Byline Articles A first-person editorial opinion and guest-authored article about an issue or trend placed in trade or consumer press PR Audits Taking a comprehensive look at a company's current PR program to assess its effectiveness Presentation Training/Coaching Preparing presenters and sales people to make effective presentations. Public Service Announcements Writing, producing and distributing PSA's to electronic or print media Small Business Packages Creating customized programs for start-up companies that fit your budget Strategic Counsel Defining marketing objectives with agency principals to create, enhance and protect your brand identity Surveys Customized to achieve your goals and garner positive media coverage Video Production/Video News Releases Videos produced for internal communications, to review media training, for sales purposes, or to accompany an interview (B-roll); a VNR is a visual version of a press Irelease, pre-produced and packaged as a TV news segment Web Site Consulting, Design & Programming Strategically develop web solutions and e-commerce capabilities Wire Services Placing PR and business news on select wire services Internet Marketing Customized list of blogs, social utility networks and other internet based communications to target specific groups with pre-established buying patterns  If you have any questions about the services we offer or how we might help you feel drop me a line at sophielily7268@gmail.com.   You can also catch me on my Synergy Media Productions Facebook Page   SMP Facebook <----link font="font"> Best, Sophie Lily  x0x0x0

A little bit about me!

Hey There,

I'm Sophie Lily and welcome to the Synergy Media Productions blog!  Synergy has been cooking up in my head for years. Long before I registered the name with the state of Delaware.

Below is a little bit about me...

I started creating marketing and PR campaigns when I was 16 for local business in my home town of Millburn, NJ. My first job was for an orthopedic shoe store. I got paid $150 and a pair of hiking sandals which I still have and wear.

I have produced and promoted new, traditional and digital/social media campaigns in conjunction with Itchy House Films, Counter Clock Productions, Cry Havic and Boy Meets Machine among many others.

My prior work is diversified.  My projects have ranged from Urban Films/artists to international projects, such as the award winning Bollywood film Bijuka.    Bijuka, was featured in the Times of India 2x which is the largest English language daily in the world, Bollywood Mantra, The Daily Star, Box Office India as well as many other Bollywood trade publications.

My office is wherever my phone or computer is! I’m a global kinda girl!  In the great words of Jay Mathews Jr., "I bring them into my store thats open everywhere in the world as long as there is a phone"

I went to Penn State University (WE ARE PENN STATE!)  where I took on the College of Communications…literally. I double majored in public relations and journalism and minored…yes plural…in pre-law, English and telecommunications.

While at Happy Valley ( WE ARE!) I had the privilege of serving as the Legal Affairs Director.  The Legal Affairs director is similar to being a DA.  I had judicial oversight over the entire Penn State Community which is 20 campuses in all and in the direction of 70,000 students.   I trained up and coming student lawyers, held workshops, lectured, and worked with faculty and staff.  

While I was the LAD I wrote legislation for the university and wrote my undergraduate masterpiece, “The Social Ramifications of the Current Alcohol Policy in the Pennsylvania State University System.”   It was inspired by a creative writing class I wasn't doing so hott in. 

I was very involved….

·         Student Government Assembly Member

·         Student Government Association Senator

·         Judicial Affairs Advisor

·         Judicial Oversight Board

·         Penn State University Campus Hearing Board

·         Public Relations Committee Chair

·         Academic Committee Chair

Awards

• ·         Bryce-Jordan Award
• ·         Exemplary Contribution to the Penn State Campus Community
• ·         Exemplary Contribution as a Student Government Association Senator

Publications:

·         Undergraduate Research: The Social Ramifications of the Current Alcohol Policy within the Pennsylvania State University System

·         Judicial Affairs Liaison & Student Adviser Curriculum and Workbook- Created curriculum for and testing protocol for judicial affairs liaisons and student advisers

·         A New Global Environment for Learning—legislation adopted by the University for online course management

·         Nittany Knows—Developed newsletter for student government members, facility & staff.  Circulation; 3,450

·         Berks, All Dried Up—Editorial article printed in the University newspaper, The Daily Collegian

·         Suburban Mothers—Essay that was recognized by the academic community for excellence

I am also an Alum of Brnadise-Bardin Collegiate Institute where I won an academic scholarship to study. BCI brings together the top young Jewish leaders in the world to study for a month at the BCI campus. BCI-American Jewish University, is the second largest piece of Jewish owned real-estate in the world. It was founded by the great Chief Justice Louis Brandise.  My area of study was Talmud, Jewish law and ethics.

One of my weakness is math. My attempts at adding and subtracting are absolutely pathetic!  I am also very Dyslexic. Yrev! Yrev!    

Being LD has been the biggest influence in my life.  Prior to college I really struggled in school.   I had to do 3^rd grade twice.  Yeah….  I'm rolling my eyes too.

  
I technically only  have a 3^rd-4^th grade reading and spelling level.  God bless spell check!  I have learned to adapt around it and it has made me think more outside the box.  It's my greatest strength and greatest weakness.   Being LD is what lead me to getting  involved, maybe a little over involved in student life at PSU.  It was such a relief to be in environment where I could succeed.   I went to a high school where 12% of my grade went to an Ivy League school.  It was cool to be in all AP classes and honors.  It sucked. Bad!

These things are the way they are for a reason.  It really does all add up, if you let it and you want it too.

My current goals are to give my clients and their projects 110% of myself and continue to expand Synergy Media Productions. 

I will add tid bits and little stories about me as I blog along.   

Stay posted!  And feel free to email me at sophielily7268@gmail.com

Much Love!

Sophie

TG!

Check out some of the latest designs for TG's latest shirts.  The full catalog of men's and women's wear will be ready in the next few weeks.
TG is a clothing line out of Palm Springs, CA. They started out as a tattoo shop. There clothing line started out with a few T-shirts, but has since grown. TG will be expanding their brand into accessories in the near future.  TG is owned by Sean Wood and Tony Francois.
Check out their shop at TG Tattoo Gallery

Lorenzo "Fat Cat" Nicoles

A blast from the past! An article I was featured in, in Allhiphop.com. Allhiphop is the largest online Urban magazine. 

The story of legendary Queens, New York drug kingpin Lorenzo “Fat Cat" Nichols is being shopped by raising funds and securing distribution via Sophie Lily Weinstein's film company, Synergy Media Productions.

Weinstein, who is the CEO and founder of Synergy Media Productions, has acquired the script from screenwriter Curtis Scoon, an[..]ociate of Nichols', who also served as coproducer of an “American Gangster” episode about the legendary Queens drug dealer.

“Cat's impact has had a long reaching ripple effect,” Sophie Lily Weinstein told AllHipHop.com. “There isn't a person in this country who wasn't impacted by the crack era and the laws put in place, either directly or indirectly through its influence in pop culture/Hip-Hop. "

Fat Cat is the personification of that era and all it entailed," continued Weinstein, who graduated from Penn State University where she studied public relations, journalism, and telecommunications.

“It is an important and relevant story that needs to be told. Cat defined an area and era."

The script, which is currently being shopped, will focus on Nichols' early childhood in Queens, his[..]ociation with Hip-Hop culture and his reign as a drug dealer in Queens, which helped usher in the infamous Rockefeller Drug Laws.

Nichols' reign of terror began in the early 1980's from his headquarters in Jamaica, Queens, Big Mac's Deli.

The infamous drug dealer developed a network of dealers around Queens, who sold heroin and crack cocaine from various housing projects under Nichols' control.

While he lived a flashy life from the proceeds of his murkous operation, Nichols' life was far from glamorous.

His wife was kidnapped in May of 1987 and his mother's home was fireb0mbed, which took the life of his invalid half-sister.

Nichols' infamy eventually reached the White House, after an[..]ociate named Howard "Pappy" Mason ordered the murk of police officer Edward Byrne, while Nichols was incarcerated on Rikers Island.

At the time of his [rip], Byrne was sitting in marked car, protecting a local resident who called police to complain about drug dealing activities in Jamaica, Queens.

Even George Bush Sr. condemned Byrne's murk, which took place on February 26th, 1988 and resulted in a crackdown on Nichols' activities, which also included the murk of his parole officer Brian Rooney.

Nichols was eventually sentenced to a total of 40 years in prison for murks, racketeering, and drug-related charges.

“It is my hope this project does for the black gangster what 'Goodfellas' did for the mob,” screenwriter Curtis Scoon told AllHipHop.com. “Strip away the glamorous veneer, to reveal the raw brutality of the urban underworld." 

Nichols's story has had a drastic impact on Hip-Hop music, as Queens artists like Nas, Ja Rule, The Lost Boyz and 50 Cent have all been checked the imprisoned Queens, native.

His life was also the subject of Ethan Brown's 2005 book “Queens Reigns Supreme: Fat Cat, 50 Cent, and The Rise of The Hip-Hop Hustler. "

Before Weinstein acquired the contract, 50 Cent was in involved in intense negotiations to acquire the script, sources told AllHipHop.com.

Weinstein intends to use talent from the Hip-Hop community to start in the project.

“It's also my hope and intention to involve talent from the Hip-Hop community,” Weinstein said. “I'd like them to see this as 'their' project.”

In addition to working with 127th Street Films, Weinstein was an[..]ociate producer of "Other People's Money," which starred Kerry Washington and was written by Paul Dawson. 

Bijuka

BIJUKA WEBSITE

Bijuka

Bijuka

a Parshva Productions

Directed by Ashtar Sayed

Produced by 

Charlotte Poth & Atul Shah

In an intimate look at the status of women in northern rural India, Bijuka tells the story of Lalli and Painku, a young couple brought together by arranged marriage. Painku, rumored to be a grand lothario in his village, harbors a secret that undercuts their new union. Lalli’s life, one of indentured servitude and drudgery and coldness and lack of interest by her husband. As the first rains fall, Lalli is allowed to return home for a brief visit. While confiding in her family about her new life, Lalli tells her family that she and Painku had yet to consummate their union. In this, Lalli’s father believes he has found a lynch pin that could justify an annulment. When Lalli fails to return to Painku, he implores the village Panchayat to intercede. During the meeting of the council, it is ordered that Lalli must provide physical proof of Painku’s impotence by demonstrating he act before them.  AS soon as the village council get the couple alone, she is gang raped while her husband retrains her. After the assault, the member of the council proclaim that Lalli’s allegations of Painku’s impotence was a lie and that Lalli must return to her husband’s home. In the dead of night, a beaten and shattered Lalli kills her husband with an axe. She turned her self in for the murder and is now serving a life sentence in Rajasthan prison.

Bijuka

Bijuka