Rumble on the Plains | Buffalo Roundup Documentary
Support our film to showcase the Buffalo Roundup—where the past and preservation come alive
Project Description
Experience the thrill of "Rumble on the Plains"—a captivating short documentary that immerses you in Custer State Park's legendary buffalo roundup. Ride alongside cowboys, artists, and park staff as they reveal the rich cultural and conservation significance of this South Dakota tradition. Your support will bring the spirit of the American West to life and inspire others to embrace the adventure and tradition of the buffalo roundup firsthand."
Here's the story: The Buffalo Roundup at Custer State Park, South Dakota, began in the early 20th century to manage the bison population and ensure herd health. The roundup serves critical conservation purposes and fosters a sense of community, linking past traditions with present-day efforts. 'Rumble on the Plains' captures the stories of those involved, highlighting the event’s cultural significance and its role in preserving the iconic bison.
1. Cultural & Historical Significance - Native American Culture & American West, Modern Practices co-exist with historical tradition
2. Conservation & Environmental Impact - Wildlife Preservation & Conservation Awareness
3. Spectacular Wildlife Experience - Cultural Exchange & Community Involvement
Having worked in filmmaking for over a decade, my team and I bring a wealth of experience in crafting compelling narratives and creating visually impactful content. My diverse experience in capturing human stories and complex themes equips me well for capturing all aspects of the Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup. Growing up in South Dakota and hearing stories about the Buffalo Roundup has fueled my passion to tell this story. By collaborating with park staff and utilizing my distinctive film style, I aim to present the roundup’s historical, cultural, and conservation aspects through the eyes of those directly involved. This combination of professional expertise and personal connection makes me uniquely qualified to bring "Rumble on the Plains" to life, sharing its powerful story with audiences who will be inspired by it's authenticity, the majesty of the American West, and the enduring spirit of a tradition that connects past and present.
We are raising $17,000 to fund Rumble on the Plains. The fundraising funds will be used to cover essential production costs including crew salaries, travel, food, equipment rental, production insurance, festival applications, and post-production expenses.
Our team consists of filmmakers Erin Beacom, Aaron Pendergast, Arlo Perez, & Maggie Peter.
We have some really unique and fun rewards for you to take part in on our campaign page below! There's private access to behind the scenes content, private screening invites, merchandise, and executive producer credits up for grabs. Thank you so much for your support in helping fund this short documentary Rumble on the Plains. Your contribution will ensure that we capture and share the spirit, history, and majesty of the buffalo roundup, preserving this unique heritage for future generations and inspiring others to experience the awe of the American West firsthand.
The Campaign FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions:
- How will my donation be used?
- These donations will go to an array of expenses that need to be covered in order to make this short documentary. Here are some of the largest areas these donations will go to: crew salaries, travel, food, equipment rentals, production insurance, festival applications, and post production expenses.
- Is my donation tax-deductible?
- Unfortunately, no. We are not a 501c3 non-profit so the donations are not tax deductible but we hope to make it worthwhile for you by some truly awesome, gift stacked tiers.
- When will the documentary be released?
- We do not have an exact date yet. Once we finish editing the short doc we will be submitting it to film festivals and depending on where it gets approved will affect the date that it is released. That being said, we are hoping to release in the fall of 2025 or spring of 2026 depending on the festivals. Exclusive updates will be given to all tiers who donate $25+ and general updates will be avaliable to all through our website and social platform.
- How will I receive my rewards?
- The rewards will be delivered through both email and physical mail depending on what the reward is. Physical goods will be coming through the mail and all digital will arrive in your email inbox.
- How can I help if I can’t donate?
- Share our campaign on your socials, with your family & friends! The further we can spread the word the better the awareness not only for the fundraising but for the doc in general.
- How can I stay updated on the documentary’s progress?
- If you donate $25+ you will receive frequent (weekly most of the time, possibly daily during production), if you do not reach the $25 tier make sure to follow us on our Instagram for our general population updates (they will still be great!).
Saddle up! Not only will you receive a personalized video thank you from us, but you'll also be added to our Exclusive Email Updates. This means you'll get an insider's look with behind-the-scenes videos, photos, stories, and early releases throughout the production to the release of the film. Your support is helping bring our vision to life, and we can’t wait to share all the wild stories of this incredible journey with you!
Just Because I Care
Every dollar counts in making this film a reality. Your support means the world to us, and we're genuinely grateful for your contribution. Your help makes a big impact on funding our film.
You'll receive a heartfelt, personalized video message from our team, thanking you for your support. Every bit helps us bring this project to life, and we’re excited to share our appreciation directly with you!
With the American Wild, American Wooly, you’re not just supporting a film—you’re joining our documentary pack. This package is designed to show our deep appreciation for your generosity and provide you with recognition and access to all things Rumble on the Plains. Thank you so much!
What's coming your way:
- Personalized video thank you from the team
- Exclusive email updates with behind-the-scenes content, early releases, and more
- Your name or company listed on our website’s thank you page
- HD digital download of the film upon release
Oh dang, you're makin' us blush! Your support propels our documentary forward, making it possible to bring the iconic Buffalo Roundup to people all over the place. We are truly, deeply grateful for your commitment, and we can't wait for you to experience the journey with us. Giddy up cowboys and cowgirls, it's gonna be a wild ride.
What's comin' your way:
- A heartfelt, personalized video thank you
- Exclusive email updates with insider access to behind-the-scenes moments, sneak peeks, and more
- Recognition on our film’s thank you page
- HD digital download of the film upon release
- Shoutouts on email and social media celebrating your support
- A custom Rumble on the Plains bandana or hat (you choose which one you would like), plus a sticker set
Embrace the spirit of the buffalo! Just like the buffalo charges towards the storm, your support helps us tackle every challenge in bringing Rumble on the Plains to life. We’re beyond grateful for your generosity and can’t wait for you to enjoy what's coming your way:
- A personalized video thank you
- Exclusive email updates with behind-the-scenes content and sneak peeks
- Recognition on our film’s thank you page
- HD digital download of the film upon release
- Shoutouts on email and social media
- A custom Rumble on the Plains bandana or hat, plus a sticker set
- A custom Rumble on the Plains T-shirt to show off your support
Your support is more than just a boost—it’s a full-on charge into the heart of the American West. We’re beyond grateful for your commitment to capturing and sharing this legendary tradition far and wide. Thank you and now we’re rolling out the red carpet just for you.
- A personalized video thank you
- Exclusive email updates with behind-the-scenes content and sneak peeks
- Recognition on our film’s thank you page
- HD digital download of the film upon release
- Shoutouts on email and social media
- A custom Rumble on the Plains bandana or hat, plus a sticker set
- A custom Rumble on the Plains T-shirt to show off your support
- Invitation to the crew & family pre-release private screening in South Dakota - travel not included (date TBD 2025)
- 10 high-quality downloadable roundup images
Hot damn, we’re tipping our hat and tipping our boots in appreciation for your incredible generosity! You’re right at the heart of our Wild West adventure. Your support is making a huge impact, and we’re thrilled to have you along for the ride. We'll also make it worth your while cause you have lots of goodies heading your way:
- Personalized thank you video
- Exclusive email updates with behind-the-scenes content, sneak peeks, and more
- Recognition on our film’s thank you page
- HD digital download of the film upon release
- Shoutouts on email and social media
- Custom Rumble on the Plains bandana or hat
- Rumble on the Plains sticker set
- Custom Rumble on the Plains T-shirt
- Invitation to the crew & family pre-release private screening in South Dakota - travel not included (date TBD 2025)
- 10 high-quality downloadable roundup images
- Downloadable Bison Cookbook
- Post Card Deck
- Name in the credits of the movie as a supporter
- Coffee table book with photos from the Roundup
You're truly riding with the big herd now! Your incredible support not only helps us bring this epic story to life but also earns you the honorary title of Associate Producer. We cannot thank you enough for your generosity!
What's coming your way:
- Personalized video thank you
- Exclusive email updates with behind-the-scenes content, sneak peeks, and more
- Recognition on our film’s thank you page
- HD digital download of the film upon release
- Shoutouts on email and social media
- Custom Rumble on the Plains bandana or hat, plus a sticker set
- Custom Rumble on the Plains T-shirt
- Invitation to the crew & family pre-release private screening in South Dakota - travel not included (Date TBD 2025)
- 10 high-quality downloadable roundup images
- Downloadable Bison Cookbook
- Post Card Deck
- Coffee table book with photos from the Roundup
- Two tickets to the premiere - travel not included (Date TBD 2025)
- Name in the Credits of the movie as Associate Producer
Yeehaw my dude! You’ve just become a legend in our book. As a Great White Buffalo, you’re not just supporting our film—you’re becoming a crucial part of it with an Executive Producer credit! We’re singing our hearts out around the campfire to your extraordinary generosity. Truly thank you SO much, we are so excited you are with us for this ride!
Here's whats coming your way:
- Personalized video thank you
- Exclusive email updates with behind-the-scenes content, sneak peeks, and more
- Recognition on our film’s thank you page
- HD digital download of the film upon release
- Shoutouts on email and social media
- Custom Rumble on the Plains bandana & hat, plus a sticker set
- Custom Rumble on the Plains T-shirt
- Invitation to the crew & family pre-release private screening in South Dakota - travel not included (Date TBD 2025)
- 10 high-quality downloadable roundup images
- Downloadable Bison Cookbook
- Post Card Deck
- Coffee table book with photos from the Roundup
- Two tickets to the premiere - travel not included (Date TBD 2025)
- Name in the Credits of the movie as an Executive Producer
Rewards
Saddle up! Not only will you receive a personalized video thank you from us, but you'll also be added to our Exclusive Email Updates. This means you'll get an insider's look with behind-the-scenes videos, photos, stories, and early releases throughout the production to the release of the film. Your support is helping bring our vision to life, and we can’t wait to share all the wild stories of this incredible journey with you!
Just Because I Care
Every dollar counts in making this film a reality. Your support means the world to us, and we're genuinely grateful for your contribution. Your help makes a big impact on funding our film.
You'll receive a heartfelt, personalized video message from our team, thanking you for your support. Every bit helps us bring this project to life, and we’re excited to share our appreciation directly with you!
With the American Wild, American Wooly, you’re not just supporting a film—you’re joining our documentary pack. This package is designed to show our deep appreciation for your generosity and provide you with recognition and access to all things Rumble on the Plains. Thank you so much!
What's coming your way:
- Personalized video thank you from the team
- Exclusive email updates with behind-the-scenes content, early releases, and more
- Your name or company listed on our website’s thank you page
- HD digital download of the film upon release
Oh dang, you're makin' us blush! Your support propels our documentary forward, making it possible to bring the iconic Buffalo Roundup to people all over the place. We are truly, deeply grateful for your commitment, and we can't wait for you to experience the journey with us. Giddy up cowboys and cowgirls, it's gonna be a wild ride.
What's comin' your way:
- A heartfelt, personalized video thank you
- Exclusive email updates with insider access to behind-the-scenes moments, sneak peeks, and more
- Recognition on our film’s thank you page
- HD digital download of the film upon release
- Shoutouts on email and social media celebrating your support
- A custom Rumble on the Plains bandana or hat (you choose which one you would like), plus a sticker set
Embrace the spirit of the buffalo! Just like the buffalo charges towards the storm, your support helps us tackle every challenge in bringing Rumble on the Plains to life. We’re beyond grateful for your generosity and can’t wait for you to enjoy what's coming your way:
- A personalized video thank you
- Exclusive email updates with behind-the-scenes content and sneak peeks
- Recognition on our film’s thank you page
- HD digital download of the film upon release
- Shoutouts on email and social media
- A custom Rumble on the Plains bandana or hat, plus a sticker set
- A custom Rumble on the Plains T-shirt to show off your support
Your support is more than just a boost—it’s a full-on charge into the heart of the American West. We’re beyond grateful for your commitment to capturing and sharing this legendary tradition far and wide. Thank you and now we’re rolling out the red carpet just for you.
- A personalized video thank you
- Exclusive email updates with behind-the-scenes content and sneak peeks
- Recognition on our film’s thank you page
- HD digital download of the film upon release
- Shoutouts on email and social media
- A custom Rumble on the Plains bandana or hat, plus a sticker set
- A custom Rumble on the Plains T-shirt to show off your support
- Invitation to the crew & family pre-release private screening in South Dakota - travel not included (date TBD 2025)
- 10 high-quality downloadable roundup images
Hot damn, we’re tipping our hat and tipping our boots in appreciation for your incredible generosity! You’re right at the heart of our Wild West adventure. Your support is making a huge impact, and we’re thrilled to have you along for the ride. We'll also make it worth your while cause you have lots of goodies heading your way:
- Personalized thank you video
- Exclusive email updates with behind-the-scenes content, sneak peeks, and more
- Recognition on our film’s thank you page
- HD digital download of the film upon release
- Shoutouts on email and social media
- Custom Rumble on the Plains bandana or hat
- Rumble on the Plains sticker set
- Custom Rumble on the Plains T-shirt
- Invitation to the crew & family pre-release private screening in South Dakota - travel not included (date TBD 2025)
- 10 high-quality downloadable roundup images
- Downloadable Bison Cookbook
- Post Card Deck
- Name in the credits of the movie as a supporter
- Coffee table book with photos from the Roundup
You're truly riding with the big herd now! Your incredible support not only helps us bring this epic story to life but also earns you the honorary title of Associate Producer. We cannot thank you enough for your generosity!
What's coming your way:
- Personalized video thank you
- Exclusive email updates with behind-the-scenes content, sneak peeks, and more
- Recognition on our film’s thank you page
- HD digital download of the film upon release
- Shoutouts on email and social media
- Custom Rumble on the Plains bandana or hat, plus a sticker set
- Custom Rumble on the Plains T-shirt
- Invitation to the crew & family pre-release private screening in South Dakota - travel not included (Date TBD 2025)
- 10 high-quality downloadable roundup images
- Downloadable Bison Cookbook
- Post Card Deck
- Coffee table book with photos from the Roundup
- Two tickets to the premiere - travel not included (Date TBD 2025)
- Name in the Credits of the movie as Associate Producer
Yeehaw my dude! You’ve just become a legend in our book. As a Great White Buffalo, you’re not just supporting our film—you’re becoming a crucial part of it with an Executive Producer credit! We’re singing our hearts out around the campfire to your extraordinary generosity. Truly thank you SO much, we are so excited you are with us for this ride!
Here's whats coming your way:
- Personalized video thank you
- Exclusive email updates with behind-the-scenes content, sneak peeks, and more
- Recognition on our film’s thank you page
- HD digital download of the film upon release
- Shoutouts on email and social media
- Custom Rumble on the Plains bandana & hat, plus a sticker set
- Custom Rumble on the Plains T-shirt
- Invitation to the crew & family pre-release private screening in South Dakota - travel not included (Date TBD 2025)
- 10 high-quality downloadable roundup images
- Downloadable Bison Cookbook
- Post Card Deck
- Coffee table book with photos from the Roundup
- Two tickets to the premiere - travel not included (Date TBD 2025)
- Name in the Credits of the movie as an Executive Producer