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Because of Sam – Documentary Film Synopsis
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Tampa native, Sam Piazza was born with Down syndrome. The love and support of his family, church, and an inclusive school culture helped him accomplish extraordinary things. Sam’s positive attitude, courage and desire to achieve more than was expected is an inspiration to all of us.
Sam not only overcame tremendous obstacles, but he now uses his life to help others. He works tirelessly as a volunteer Ambassador for Best Buddies International, volunteers at Gigi’s Playhouse, has earned a black belt in karate, participated in the ROTC, was the volunteer basketball team manager in high school and active in the Special Olympics.
In 2009, he caught the eye of filmmaker and fellow Tampa native, Renee Warmack, who read an article in The Tampa Tribune about how he was crowned Homecoming King at Gaither High School in Tampa.
The documentary “Because of Sam” will show the world that being different can be difficult, yet the conflicts, triumphs and epiphanies that occur in the life of a person with disabilities can serve as catalysts for positive change in the lives of other people.
This movie will change the viewers’ belief systems from that of doubting the capability of people with disabilities, to believing that they can achieve great things. Furthermore, the viewers will reflect on their own lives and be inspired to tap into their potential to pursue their goals.
Movie Setting – Tampa, FL (Hillsborough County)
Sam Piazza was born and raised in Tampa (Hillsborough County), Florida. Setting the film in Sam’s hometown adds charm and authenticity to the story. The city’s diverse population, inviting communities and winding Hillsborough River make it a meaningful and attractive backdrop for Sam’s journey. Showcasing the schools Sam attended, Tampa’s cultural landmarks, and the beautiful waterways found in the Sunshine State will reveal the character of this major port city. Production of the documentary film Because of Sam will put Sam Piazza’s story on a global stage.
A longer-term vision of Sam’s and filmmaker Renee Warmack is to use the documentary Because of Sam as a catalyst to create awareness about Sam’s story so that it can launch the process for producing a major theatrical film, in Tampa, that is based on Sam’s life, similar to Where Hope Grows or Rudy. Tampa has yet to produce a major feature film about a hometown hero like Sam Piazza and Tampa native, Producer, Director and Writer Renee Warmack intends to do just that.