Reel Vision Media

Alan Doung to film two dance recitals. My company films performances nationwide, and when possible, we hire local videographers to film while we handle post-production. Without any notice or permission, Alan subcontracted the job to another videographer. In many industries this is unacceptable; in professional video production, it is a cardinal sin. You do not farm out a job behind your client’s back. Ever. And if an emergency truly exists, you communicate. Period. Instead, on recital day, I received a text from a complete stranger saying he was “on site and ready to film.” My response was, “Who are you?” At that point, there was nothing I could do but hope disaster didn’t strike. It did. Weeks later, my wife and I received a call from Alan informing us that the videographer failed to format the memory card and the entire second recital was lost. Alan was apologetic and assured us — clearly, to both of us — that he would make it right. That was over a year ago. Since then, Alan has done the opposite of making it right. He has strung along me, the dance studio owner, and the families — children who simply want to see their performance — for more than a year. He has refunded nothing, accepted no responsibility, and made no effort to repair the damage. As a direct result of his negligence: I lost a long-term client The dance director lost at least ten families The director was forced to issue refunds out of her own pocket To make matters worse, Alan used a private group text I had sent and contacted people he knew were my colleagues and associates, asking about me — an act that was both inappropriate and deeply unprofessional. I have sent over 30 requests asking Alan to do the bare minimum: refund the amount necessary so I could help offset the financial harm done to the dance director. He has ignored every one. Alan: look in the mirror. Look at the financial, emotional, and professional damage you caused — not just to me, but to an entire community. Your silence answers every question about your character. I now have no choice but to pursue legal action in small claims court against you, your company, and the subcontracted videographer. Contrary to what he believes, he is absolutely part of this — and according to legal counsel, potentially even more responsible. For anyone considering hiring Reel Vision Media: do not. If your event matters to you in any way, entrusting it to this company would be a grave mistake. People make mistakes. I’ve made plenty. The difference is that responsible professionals take accountability and try to make things right. Alan Doung chose to make everything worse. Andy Kersh, Inspire Dance Films, Inc. (NJ)