WE ARE MUSIC

ABOUT THE FILM

Created by Sam Nuttmann, WE ARE MUSIC is an uplifting feature documentary following musician Robbie Fitzsimmons on a path to personal and creative restoration.

After a life-threatening crisis brings his long struggle with mental health to a tipping point, Robbie accepts an invitation to visit the small community of Index, Washington. What begins as a retreat quickly evolves into a deeply collaborative journey. As Robbie immerses himself in the lives of the town’s captivating locals, their shared stories become the catalyst for a wave of original music and spontaneous town performances.

Blending observational filmmaking with cinematic musical sequences, WE ARE MUSIC offers an engaging, heartfelt look at healing, community, and the songs hidden within everyday lives.

TAGLINE

Every story has a song.

LOGLINE

Following a near-death experience and a long battle with mental health, musician Robbie Fitzsimmons travels from California to the quiet mountain town of Index, Washington. Inspired by the striking wilderness and the captivating stories of its residents, Robbie channels his journey into the creation of powerful new music.

FILMMAKER’S STATEMENT

For years, I’ve witnessed Robbie Fitzsimmons’ rare ability to hold an audience spellbound through his music. His songwriting is rooted in narrative – each piece acts as an intricate story brought to life through raw, soulful performance. As a filmmaker, I found myself constantly intrigued by his work, seeing a natural alignment between his musical storytelling and my own visual craft.

Deeply moved by Robbie’s open conversations about his years of mental and physical health struggles, I was eager to support his recovery. My home in Index, Washington—a scenic town with a population under 200—is a place of profound beauty and compelling human stories. Believing that a change of environment could catalyze both personal healing and artistic renewal, I invited Robbie to stay, curious to see how this unique town might shape his next chapter.

What followed could only be described as storytelling magic. Robbie forged deep, authentic connections with several residents who welcomed him into their daily routines—from swimming in local rivers and hiking rugged trails to crafting wood art with a chainsaw. Beneath these vibrant, adventurous moments lie deeply personal, sometimes heartbreaking stories. Yet, the film shines a light on how community and the natural world can mend the spirit, turning shared grief and isolation into a story of perseverance and hope.

My hope is that this film sparks a sense of inspiration in everyone who watches it. Above all, I hope it serves as a reminder that within every individual lies a meaningful story, a valuable perspective, and a song waiting to find its voice.

~ Sam Nuttmann

TECHNICAL SPECS

• PROJECT TYPE: Documentary
• RUNTIME: 1 hour 36 minutes
• COMPLETION DATE: Aug 14, 2026
• COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: United States
• COUNTRY OF FILMING: United States
• LANGUAGE: English
• SHOOTING FORMAT: Digital, UHD
• ASPECT RATIO: 2.39:1
• FILM COLOR: Color