Film Independent’s Fiscal Sponsorship program opens the door to nonprofit funding for independent filmmakers and media artists. Donate today and help bring Run 4 Ben to life.

Logline

During the Coronavirus pandemic, a man runs to raise awareness for Parkinson’s disease to honor his father, enduring the chaotic and profound unexpected impacts on his life.

Synopsis

Jamen Spitzer chose to participate in the Detroit Free Press Marathon to raise money for his father, who has Parkinson’s disease. He also decided to document his journey on camera to raise awareness about the condition. This film captures his experiences as he navigates training and running during a pandemic, encounters a baseball hero, and reflects on the significant impact this journey has on his life.
 

Meet the Filmmakers

Jamen Spitzer — Creator/Producer/Star
Jamen Spitzer is a comedian, actor, and dedicated advocate for the sober community. A Michigan native, Jamen graduated from the Second City Conservatory program in Detroit and served as the Managing Director of Planet Ant Theatre in Hamtramck, MI, before relocating to Los Angeles.

While in LA, Jamen attended Groundlings and performed in numerous shows. He also served as Managing Director of Some Assembly Required, overseeing the production of ten short films and hosting two screenings at the Downtown Independent Movie Theater.

An avid runner, Jamen has completed several major races, including the Detroit Free Press Marathon (2020–2023) and the NYC Marathon in 2024. He has raised funds for various non-profits, such as the Kirk Gibson Foundation, and has been deeply involved with The Phoenix, a sober active community.

Jamen now works full-time as Volunteer Manager for The Phoenix, where he combines his passion for physical activity and personal connection to build and strengthen sober communities across Michigan.

Mike Piccirillo — Director/Writer/Producer
Mike Piccirillo has over 25 years of experience in film and television. He’s worked on notable projects like Jurassic World, Godzilla vs. Kong, Westworld, and Obi-Wan Kenobi.

He recently art directed two upcoming shows for Amazon Prime: On Call from producer Dick Wolf and the next chapter in the Bosch series, Ballard.
He’s a distinguished graduate of UCLA’s Film Direction Certificate program and has directed award-winning short films like April and The Real Truth Behind the Real True Story: Donnie Miller. He’s also collaborated on several other short films, including the feature film The Thing Before the Thing, which is currently available on Amazon Prime.

Originally from New Jersey, Mike now lives in Santa Clarita, California, with his wife, Wendy, and son, Dante.

Make a donation to Run 4 Ben.

Contact

For inquiries, please contact fiscalsponsorship@filmindependent.org.