Production status: Production began in February, 2010 and is nearly complete as of December, 2010. Post-production schedule depends on funding (see the Community Supported Filmmaking link!), but the target completion date is fall, 2011.

Genre: Cinema-verite documentary.

Shooting format: HD video. (And for those who care: 720p/24p native mode, Cinelike D)

Camera: Panasonic HVX 200

Length: 90 minutes +

Geographic scope: Southern Humboldt County, with some in Northern Mendocino County.

Director/Writer/Cinematography: Mikal Jakubal

The title, One Good Year, comes from an oft-repeated phrase around Southern Humboldt that goes something like this, “I’m going to quit growing weed and do _ _ _ _ _, but all I need is just one good year.”

The film follows the stories of four “mom-and-pop” weed growers—all of whom have legitimate doctor’s recommendations for medical marijuana—over the course of a year in SoHum.

Humboldt County has been the subject of untold magazine articles, radio and TV news shows and films, most of which barely scratch the surface or do little more than perpetuate the worst of the hype and sensationalism. The hype is boring compared to the real story. Having lived here for over 15 years, I’ll bring an in-depth perspective and a local’s sensitivity and authenticity to the story. With legalization on the horizon and ever-increasing media attention focused on Humboldt County, it is more important than ever that this community tells its own story.