After witnessing the killing of his activist brother as a young boy, a brilliant but unsettled Black college professor joins two students on a turbulent social justice march, and must race to find an escape as they become trapped between the spiraling mob and a ruthless cop. Inspired by actual events. Academy Nicholl Top 5%. 

SYNOPSIS:

Two young Black men, 12-year-old Daniel Cooper and his 19-year-old brother, join a protest rally on the local college campus in 1970. The older brother is beaten and shot by the police as Danny, helpless, flees from the scene.

50 years later, Dr. Daniel Cooper is a college history professor struggling with latent guilt and self-doubt, manifesting in self-destructive behaviors that have strained his marriage. Among these behaviors is a gambling addiction, resulting in steep losses that Daniel has concealed from his wife.

Although suffering from a fear of the police, Daniel’s precarious finances compel him to attend a massive social justice march in Philadelphia, not as a protester, but to gather research for a book his publisher has threatened to cancel due to Daniel’s missed deadlines.

Accompanying Daniel are two research assistants: introspective and acerbic 21-year-old Caleb Dawkins (Black) and impulsive but unassuming 20-year-old college athlete Alex Franklin (white). Caleb resents Alex’s presence and questions why, being white, he wants to attend the march. During a brief stopover at Alex’s home en route to Philadelphia, we learn his mother adopted a 6-year-old special needs Black child.

Upon arriving in Philadelphia, Daniel, Alex, and Caleb become stranded amidst a rapidly deteriorating scene. After rescuing police officer Amy Sanderson from an attack by rioters, Daniel resolves to overcome his fear of the police and get his two students to safety despite his mounting anxiety.

As the march descends into chaos, Daniel and his two students will find themselves trapped between the spiraling mob, white supremacists, and Amy's partner - a volatile racist.

The choices made by Daniel and his students from inside this crucible will reveal their true character in the face of injustice, self-doubt, and sacrifice.

Academy Nicholl says: “Targets is a very powerful script. It's professionally written with sharp, clear action and grounded in the reality of very believable characters. The script is emotional and wrenching and very thoughtful. The characters are likable and relatable. Such a powerful and timely story about something that could be ripped from the headlines is sure to leave audiences captivated.”

Austin Film Festival says: “The world is compelling and the writing puts the reader right in the center of the action. The world feels immersive...some truly captivating moments. Throttles to a thrilling climax...delivers in drama, emotional weight, and timely themes. Artful...the story is deeply emotional and the writing is very visual. The writer has a unique and compelling voice.”

The Black List says: “Targets is a powerful social issues drama that is more of a dissection of character. The writer explores themes of identity, community, justice, and mental health. Showcases unique action and solid character growth. Distinct character depth and unique casting opportunities provide a lot to like for a potential buyer...could attract big name talent to either act or direct.”