Resources for Better Storytelling

For us, by us. We aggregate the resources TV & film professionals need to tell deeper stories on America’s most pressing issues.

The Hollywood Committee is the only nonprofit created by professionals in TV & film dedicated to using the power of storytelling to move our nation towards a safer and more just future for all.

On a deadline?

Mental Health

Coming out of the pandemic, clinicians and public health experts report that Americans of all ages are struggling with loneliness and isolation. But it has been especially difficult for young people who spent a significant portion of their lives on lock down and lack the tools and experience gained in adulthood.

Raised with the Internet, social media, and online video games, they are more connected than any previous generation yet are much more likely to feel isolated.

We’ve gathered all the data, resources, experts, and people with lived experience to help produce deeper, more dynamic stories that will resonate with audiences that show they aren’t alone.

The Hollywood Committee is a proud partner of the Mental Health Storytelling Coalition. Featured members and other important partners & resources include:

Fall 2024 Brooklyn Film School Lab on Mental Health in TV

Unlike any other film school experience, students in our Brooklyn Writers Initiative learn from entertainment industry talent, academic leaders, and top mental health experts. The Hollywood Committee brings our members as guest lecturers & mentors to the majority Black student cohort. We access our partnerships with mental health organizations and university programs to remove cultural barriers that the Black community faces in seeking mental health support.

“Loneliness and isolation represent profound threats to our health and well-being.”

—Vivek H. Murthy, M.D., M.B.A. 19th and 21st Surgeon General of the United States Vice Admiral, United States Public Health Service

“If not us, then who? Our stories are more than just a reflection of society. They are reality, aspiration, and cautionary tale.”

— Robert Bowers Disney

Democracy

Our industry knows, perhaps more than any, that taking our democracy for granted is the easiest way to lose it. We partner with the Truman National Security Project to ensure that we’re doing all we can to protect our democratic institutions.

The Truman National Security Project is the premiere association of working professionals in democracy, defense, diplomacy, and international development.

The Hollywood Committee relies on their expertise to guide our work in protecting American democracy.

Gun Safety

While the political fight over gun control has stalled any hope for a safer country, the truth is that modeling safer gun use is the biggest opportunity we have for reducing the likelihood of firearm misuse.

It is the only thing of substance that groups from the NRA to Moms Demand Action agree upon.

By showing our characters—both hero and villain—keeping their guns locked when not in use, we can create a new national norm that will literally save lives.

We rely on Prop Gun Safety for advice and educational resources. Founded by veteran Armorer, Dutch Merrick, they are uniquely qualified to help produce stories that both entertain and model safer gun use.

Dutch is a writer and award-winning film maker, his prop work has been seen on TV shows such as SEAL Team / Paramount+, CSI:NY / CBS, Euphoria / HBO and ROAR / Apple+ TV. As well as features including S.W.A.T. and First Man.

Contact

Whether you’re a working professional in the entertainment industry or represent an organization with expertise in gun safety, mental health, or democracy, we want to hear from you.