'Placebook' remembers Doug MacKay

It was 2008 when the original concept for the film was conceived. And in 2009, as a small band of friends (lead by Ryan Mulvaney) decided to enter the '48 Hour Film Festival' in Detroit, the first draft of the script was developed. Desiring an artistic representation to accompany the story, I reached out to a friend who I believed had the talent and expertise to create a visual interpretation of its essence.  Enter Doug MacKay - an extraordinary fellow who injected his own passion into the project and delivered with precision, quality and excellence.

When I presented Doug with the request, I didn't know what he would say or what to expect. But to my sincere and absolute joy, he accepted without hesitation and with an explosion of energy. He was delighted to be part of the creative process, showing incredible interest in the concept as he developed his piece, and I was personally inspired by his dedication to the cause. Doug was given complete creative freedom, and the resulting artwork was simply brilliant. In short, and as we say in England, Doug was 'spot on' with his interpretation composition. And if you look closely, you will notice the clever and cheeky incorporation of Doug's own social media profile into the final design. 

Ultimately, we were unable to use the 'Placebook' concept for the film festival, as we drew 'comedy' as our genre. And needless to say, the core of the story behind 'Placebook' holds absolutely no comedic qualities, and could not be further situated from that genre. But I personally and internally vowed to Doug, his artwork and incredible contribution would not be forgotten, and would one day be unveiled to the world.

As the journey towards the definite production of the film continues, the working title must be changed to avoid certain and obvious comparisons to an existing social media environment. But Doug MacKay and his artwork will forever be embroidered into the soul of the film, and he continues to live in the hearts of those who loved and admired him.

As a tribute to Doug and to illustrate the everlasting appreciation and admiration for his association and contribution to the project, I would like to finally reveal Doug's incredible work.

In loving memory of a wonderfully brilliant and talented gentleman. You are sincerely missed but always remembered. Here's to you, Doug MacKay.