LYNDA
A woman suffering in the aftermath of trauma develops a bond with the man who murdered her son.
directed by David Delaney Mayer
edited by TJ Volgare
Lynda is an artist, and through a series of interviews conducted while creating paintings, a profound suffering is incrementally revealed: Lynda and her family live in Alleghany County, North Carolina where the suicide rate is higher than any other county. They survive together in the aftermath of two traumatizing losses. Brian, their eldest son was murdered, and Phillip, their youngest son, died from an opioid overdose within ten years of one another.
Lynda and her husband John struggle to convert their losses into life in a variety of ways: with art, activism, and through restorative justice. Finally, the movie is a portrait of the reconciliation process underway between Lynda and James, the man who took her son’s life.
The art that Lynda makes, the survival of her family, and the bond she forges with James are the foundation for an unforgettable story about human resilience in the face of incomprehensible tragedy.
I look at Lynda, and I see a hero. She has secrets and wisdom that I think everyone should hear and look at. Whether she is doing something profound or something mundane, Lynda is in a fight for her life. She has suffered more than most. I believe you will never forget watching as she wins that fight.
A good story well told is a rare thing, and Lynda’s story will reach audiences. A story like Lynda’s can not (and should not) be ignored.
David Delaney Mayer, Director LYNDA
What is the current status of the project?
We are in the middle of production. We have filmed around 25 hours of media, and plan to organize a number of shoots over the next year. Our plan is to continue production through the end of 2025. Post production has already started. We are targeting a rough cut by year end 2026.
How can you help?
We have raised $8,339 to date and need to raise a total of $34,188 for finishing costs. All contributions are tax deductible and can be made through our fiscal sponsor, the Southern Documentary Fund.
Help us reach our goal of raising $34,188 to finish the film!
This film is made possible by support from our community. The following people and entities have contributed to this project. We thank them deeply for their support!
Robert & Mercedes Eichholz Foundation
Ari Seelinger
Thomas Vickers
Ann Rasmussen
Bradley Bethel
Kathy Shuart
Beth Silberman
Donna Farrell
James Haverkamp
Berney Peng
Brandi Dean
Martin Witchger
Amanda D MacLaren
Nicole Triche
Tess Benjamin
Forest Kay
Marcia Morgenlander
Lynden Harris
Valoree Hanson
Robin Magee
Steven Unruhe
Dale Caveny
Scott Lacy
Mary Kay Delaney
Jon Powell
Paul Mayer