MONARCH
ON A MISSION
When the mission matters, the story matters.
We help bring both into focus.
At Monarch Motion & Media, we believe storytelling has the power to educate, inspire, preserve history. strengthen communities, and create lasting impact.
These are the stories that remind us why we do what we do.
STORY 01
Heard: The Listening Project
Every Powerful Story Begins with Someone Willing to Listen.
The best storytellers don't begin with a camera. They begin with curiosity, empathy, and a willingness to listen.
Heard: The Listening Project was created to elevate voices that have too often gone unheard, challenge stereotypes, and advocate for greater equity for historically marginalized communities. The first installment of the documentary centers on the experiences of African American women from across the country, creating a space where their stories could be shared authentically—with the hope of inspiring awareness, understanding, and meaningful change.
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THE STORY
Led by writer, producer, and director Suzanne Hambrick, the project brought together a passionate team of storytellers committed to honoring every voice with dignity and authenticity. Damon contributed film consultation, while Eric captured Suzanne's on-camera narration with thoughtful cinematography that anchored the documentary's message.
In post-production, Monarch helped weave together interviews and stories from women across the country into a cohesive and emotionally engaging documentary. Every edit was guided by the understanding that these were not simply interviews—they were lived experiences deserving of care, respect, and intentional storytelling.
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The extended trailer became the catalyst for introducing the project to new audiences, generating excitement and helping build momentum for a documentary whose purpose extends far beyond the screen.
There are stories that entertain.
There are stories that educate.
And then there are stories that remind us that listening is often the first step toward understanding.
PROJECT CREDITS
Monarch Motion & Media was brought on to provide specialized production and post-production services, supporting the client's creative vision while ensuring a polished final deliverable.
MONARCH'S ROLE
Damon Darrell
Creative Consultant, Post Production
Eric Van't Zelfden
Directory of Photography (Narration Elements)
CLIENT CREATIVE TEAM
Suzanne Hambrick
Writer, Director, Producer
Brent Marsh
Producer
Quest
Location Cinematographer
BEHIND THE SCENE
STORY 02
Mill Neck Services
Great Story. Greater Cause.
The extended trailer became the catalyst for introducing the project to new audiences, generating excitement and helping build momentum for a documentary whose purpose extends far beyond the screen.
There are stories that entertain.
There are stories that educate.
And then there are stories that remind us that listening is often the first step toward understanding.
Monarch Motion & Media was brought on for post-production, where the challenge extended far beyond assembling footage. Every edit had to preserve the integrity, pacing, and meaning of the signed communication. Working closely with the creative team, Monarch carefully refined each sequence—often reviewing and verifying individual signs to ensure every transition remained authentic, accurate, and respectful to the Deaf community.
Because when the audience relies on every movement, storytelling isn't just about what people see—it's about ensuring every frame communicates exactly what it was intended to say.
PROJECT CREDITS
MONARCH'S ROLE
Damon Darrell
Post Production
CLIENT CREATIVE TEAM
Alice Elliot
Writer, Director, Producer
Anthony Q. Artis
Director of Photography
Damon edited 2 short PSA's for us that were performed entirely in ASL. His edits were excellent, and he was a joy to work with. We hope to work with him again.
~Welcome Change Productions
