The Vision
​In November 1855, the Yakima Valley was the stage for a desperate and heroic stand. 300 Yakama warriors faced a force of 700 troops to protect their retreating families. As the families struggled to cross the icy waters of the river, these warriors held the line against impossible odds. Despite its profound significance to the Pacific Northwest and the Yakama people, this story has never been told on film. This short film is a visceral, cinematic recreation of the Battle of Union Gap, built on a foundation of cultural integrity and high-fidelity production. We are moving beyond the history books to capture the sound, the spirit, and the sacrifice of a moment that shaped our region.
​A FOCAL POINT: MUSICAL AUTHENTICITY
​A primary mission of this project is the musical authenticity of the Yakama Nation. History is not just a series of dates; it is a collection of voices and rhythms. Unlike standard historical dramas that rely on generic scores, this film will feature:
​Traditional Soundscapes: Using archival knowledge and live field recordings to ensure the instruments and vocals reflect the true heritage of the tribe.
​Aural Preservation: Integrating the specific songs and chants that have been passed down through generations, treating the soundtrack as a piece of living history.
​THE POWER DUO: PRODUCER STRENGTHS
​The success of this project relies on the intersection of modern technical mastery and ancestral knowledge. By handling the core production pillars internally, we ensure that every dollar raised goes directly toward the visual and historical scale of the film.
​Tysen Montoya | Director, Video & Sound Editor
​Technical Mastery: Tysen brings an extensive background in digital media, specializing in professional-grade video editing and high-fidelity sound design.
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The "Post-Production" Advantage: By personally managing the entire editing workflow, Tysen provides $15,000+ in labor value at no cost to the budget. This ensures a "Hollywood" finish on an independent budget.
​Acoustic Detail: Using professional DAWs, Tysen will weave Henry’s traditional recordings into a 360-degree cinematic soundscape—from the thunder of the battle to the chilling rush of the icy river.
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Henry Aleck | Co-Producer, Cultural & Musical Consultant
​Cultural Authority: As a member of the Yakama Nation, Henry provides the essential "Truth" of the project, ensuring the narrative respects the legacy of the ancestors involved.
​Musical Preservation: With a lifelong history of recording and preserving traditional Native music, Henry oversees the soundtrack to ensure every note is historically and culturally accurate.
​Historical Accuracy: From the specific regalia worn by families during their retreat to the songs sung, Henry’s oversight guarantees a film that serves as a piece of living history.
​BUDGET OVERLAY: THE $25,000 GOAL
Category Investment Impact
Authenticity Fund $9,000 Custom-crafted Yakama regalia, 1850s military uniforms, and period-accurate weaponry.
Cast & Background $7,000 Hiring lead talent and a large group of extras to represent the "300 vs 700" scale of the battle.
Cinema Gear & Logistics $6,000 High-end camera rentals (Red/Arri), anamorphic lenses, and drone work for the Union Gap landscape.
Field Recording & Music $1,500 Specialized audio gear for Henry to capture high-fidelity traditional vocals and instruments in the field.
Platform Fees & Admin $1,500 Kickstarter fees and reward fulfillment for our global backers.
The Mission Statement: We have the tools and we have the truth. With your support, we will bring the echoes of the 1855 resistance back to life for a modern audience. Help us put this untold story on screen for the first time.
All the financial backing will come from donors on Kickstarter, anything the tribe would be interested in helping with would be welcome ie. Records, regalia, etc..
Thank you for your interest in what is sure to be an amazing project for the Yakima valley in whole.
Best regards
Tysen
Watch Trailer
Our Vision
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