RIPPLE / SYNOPSIS

“When you meet Rae Ripple you can immediately feel her spark. A survivor of abuse and a byproduct of a toxic childhood, we connect with Rae as she reflects on the landmarks of her life and how she turned her struggles into an art form. Her unique craft has now evolved into salvaging neglected old cars and transforming them into amazing artifacts designed to endure.

As inspiring of a person that Rae is, she almost didn't make it. Had it not been for her kids, her art, and her courage, she may have given in to the seemingly endless urges to end it all that plagued her life’s journey. Rae has not only survived but thrived. With an enduring heart, Rae has become a celebrated artist, author, public speaker, and a mentor to women of all ages.

Exciting and hopeful, Ripple is more an inspiring tale of survival than a tragedy—a portrait of a hero who salvaged a beautiful life, nearly left in the junkyard.”

-Director: Michael McCourt

DIRECTORS STATEMENT

“I met Rae Ripple on the set of an advertising shoot. While we were in the throws of delivering something for the commercial world, there was the undeniable sense that something more meaningful was at play with this incredibly dynamic individual we had cast. She had a soulfulness, a bit of pain behind her eyes, a heart that, while bold and robust, had a few bandages holding it together - as well as a rare sense of humor and astonishing creativity.

I knew that I had to come back and visit with Rae, tell her story outside of the mandates of an advertisement, and try to show the world what I had discovered. People like Rae are so important because they stand as landmarks to overcoming adversity. She gave me strength to confront my own obstacles, not least of which was having the courage to make something meaningful to me and, in turn, to Rae and all those involved.

Our goal in telling Rae’s story was to share her journey and highlight the resilience and determination of those facing similar obstacles. It's easy to get lost in the struggles of life and succumb to negative thoughts, but Rae's story shows us that it's possible to persevere and create the life we want. As we worked together to bring this story to life, I found the experience immensely therapeutic and healing. While our paths may differ, I learned much from Rae's unwavering strength and determination.”

-Director / Michael McCourt

CAST AND CREW

Cinematography: Daniel Stewart
Editor: Michael McCourt
Color by: Company 3
Colorist: Jaime O'Bradovich Color Producer: Nick Krasnic
1st AC / Sound: Joshua Laemmle
Cameras Provided by: Element Pictures
Lighting and Grip: First Unit Graphic Designer: Paul Raffaele

Starring: Rae Ripple Director: Michael McCourt
Production: THE VERSO
Exec Producer: Jason Haymond, Michael McCourt, Jay Zaretsky, Jackson Morton, Joe Care, Pedro De Oliveira
Producer: Jason Haymond and Michael McCourt Co-Producer: Brenden Hubbard
Written by: Rae Ripple, Jay Zaretsky, Michael McCourt
Original Music: Nick Crane, Joshua Laemmle, Christina Paul
Music Clearance: Becky Mathai Sound Design and Mix: Nikolay Antonov

The Filmmakers like to thank: Zeke O'Donnell - Annabel Jankel - Bruce Herman - Jeff Cruz - JOJX - Danielle McCourt - Owen McCourt - Sherri Haymond - Mack Haymond - Leon Alexander Micah Austin - Company 3 - Rick Kalivoda - Mary Katherine Wise - Lens Rentals - Racket Club - Micah Austin - Hilary Dzurec - Karsyn Reynoso

Filmed on location - Big Springs, Texas