Giant Pictures acquired worldwide Digital and VOD rights to Lisa Binn’s feature documentary Do Something: The Jeffrey Modell Story and plans a worldwide June 11, 2019 release.
In 1970’s New York, young parents Fred and Vicki Modell were overjoyed by the arrival of their first child, a perfect baby boy they named Jeffrey. But just months later, it became clear that something was wrong. Jeffrey was eventually diagnosed with Primary Immunodeficiency, a disorder of the immune system, that left him frequently sick and perilously susceptible to infections.
Jeffrey begged his parents to “do something” to help children like him. Although his parents desperately tried, Jeffrey ultimately succumbed to his illness at the age of 15. Out of their devastating real-life loss, Fred and Vicki turned to their enduring love for each other to find the strength to fulfill their promise to Jeffrey. With just $500 in the bank, and guided by Jeffrey’s memory, they turned pain into purpose, and through The Jeffrey Modell Foundation went on to help parents and children all across the world.
Through their life saving work at the foundation they created in Jeffrey’s name, millions of lives have been forever changed because of Fred and Vicki’s determination to “do something.”
For over two decades, Do Something: The Jeffrey Modell Story filmmaker Lisa Binns has captivated audiences with stories that make a difference. Working across news, documentary, and feature production, Binns’ poignant storytelling has touched the hearts and minds of millions on iconic television networks including CBS, ESPN, National Geographic, Al Jazeera, ESPN, BET, and more.
Binns stated, “I am so thrilled to be partnering with Giant Pictures on the release of our film and so happy to share the inspiring story of the Modell Family, Vicki and Fred Modell and Jeffrey Modell to audiences around the world.”
Vicki & Fred Modell continued, “To inspire other families and to save even just one precious life in Jeffrey’s name, is an honor and a privilege.”
Do Something: The Jeffrey Modell Story is a Scéal Films Production and was written, directed and produced by Lisa Binns. The film is produced by Melissa Panzer and Matthew Waters, executive produced by Joan Lynch, and associate produced by Shannon R. Stanley and Jay Tipton. The director of photography is Jonathan Barenboim, and the film is also written by Robbyn Footlick.