‘Linsanity: The Movie’ Sells Out At Sundance, Still Crowdfunding On Kickstarter

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A unique behind-the-scenes look into an Asian-American’s unexpected rise from sitting the bench to NBA stardom, “Linsanity: The Movie” premiered Jan. 20 to a sold-out crowd on the final day of the Sundance Film Festival. When they started their independent documentary about a Harvard guard struggling to find a role in the NBA, director Evan  Jackson Leong and producers Christopher Chen, Brian Yang and Allen Lu never imagined they would be filming when 23-year-old Jeremy Lin was called off the New York Knicks bench only to lead the team on a 9-3 winning streak with his game-winning shots. Fans soon named his performances “Linsanity,” and—by chance—the authentic documentary had a name and a whole new audience.

Popular as it may be at Sundance, “Linsanity: The Movie” is not backed by any major studios. In order to polish the film, the “Linsanity” team is seeking crowdfunding on Kickstarter.com. Until 6 p.m. EST Feb. 15, those interested in backing the movie can pledge their contributions on the Web site. If the project meets its goal of $117,000 in pledges, the donations will be processed. With 17 days to go in the campaign, “Linsanity” has already received pledges totaling more than $81,000 from 836 backers.

Potential supporters can pledge as little as $1 toward the completion of the film, for a $15 pledge they will even receive their very own “Linsanity” collectible movie buttons. A $50 pledge will earn the backer a copy of “Linsanity” on DVD when it’s available in September. For $150, backers can receive the DVD and all nine collectible buttons.

Want to receive credit for your backing? Pledge $250 and the “Linsanity” team will thank you in the credits of the film, which you will receive on DVD as well. The awards continue to increase through higher pledges, including signed Jeremy Lin jersey and DVD for a $7,500 pledge and all of the above plus a dinner date with the film’s creators for a $10,000 pledge.