Jacksonville-based production studio Flying Ostrich Media has released the official trailer for its upcoming feature-length documentary “Wright of Passage.” The film is scheduled to make its red-carpet world premiere on Saturday, Jan. 24, at the Robinson Theater in partnership with the University of North Florida.
The trailer offers the first public look at the five-year production led by pilot and filmmaker Lee Giat.
In 2020, his father was killed in a plane crash, a loss that reshaped Giat’s life and purpose. Determined to carry on his father’s aviation legacy, he embarked on a 48-day solo flight expedition across the Caribbean and South America.
Flying a small aircraft over vast stretches of ocean and mountainous terrain, delivering more than $100,000 in science education resources to underserved schools halfway across the planet. What began as a tribute became a journey of resilience, exploration and self-discovery.
“I had to process my dad’s crash and make a decision of whether I was ever going to fly again,” said Giat. “This trailer is only a glimpse of what ‘Wright of Passage’ represents for me personally, our crew and our community that made it possible right here in Jacksonville.”
The feature film was funded and produced in Jacksonville. Much of the film’s leadership are UNF alumni, including Giat and the studio’s executive producer, Sydney Strimer. The Flying Ostrich Media crew documented the journey across six countries, capturing the expedition through innovative aircraft-mounted cinematography and emotional firsthand storytelling.
The trailer was edited by the film’s creative marketing director, Josh Prem, and motion graphics designer, Austin James Piedra, both of whom have worked on major campaign titles such as “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” and “When Evil Lurks.”
“Wright of Passage” also features an original score by composers Shelbie Rassler and Katie Jenkins, who have conducted for titles including “Spider-Verse” and “The Twilight Saga” in concert.
The trailer release marks the beginning of the film’s public rollout, leading to the Jan. 24 World Premiere. The premiere will include a red-carpet arrival, photo opportunities and a first-class lounge experience for VIP guests. Following the Jacksonville debut, the film will begin an international festival circuit before streaming globally in 2026.
Proceeds from its distribution will support science-education initiatives for under-resourced schools both locally and abroad.
The trailer is now available across Flying Ostrich Media’s social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube) and at flyingostrichmedia.com/wopmovie2026.
Tickets are available for the red-carpet world premiere on Eventbrite.
