Documentary Shorts #1

My Name is Annabel

Directed by Ida Joglar

Annabel Hernandez, a charismatic performer with Down syndrome, tells her story.

The Making of The Big Picture

Directed by Benjamine Reid

Discover the inspiring journey of a group of talented teenagers from Charlotte, North Carolina, as they embark on a transformative artistic adventure. This captivating short documentary, inspired by the work of Teen Health Connection, showcases their remarkable collaboration, where these young individuals not only wrote, but also performed an incredible play for audiences of all ages. As one of the play’s sponsors states, “They’re the canaries in the coal mine.” Through candid interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, witness their creativity, passion, and personal growth as they tackle thought-provoking themes and embrace the power of storytelling.

I Can Do Anything: A letter to Burning Man

Directed by Alba Roland Mejia

This experimental short is an intimate, character-focused exploration of the unique Black Experience at Burning Man. It was not the director’s priority to capture Burning Man itself, but the energy exchange that it has with the present Black bodies. His goal in this piece inspires curiosity.

Ora Et Labora

Directed by Jena Burchick, Mark Burchick

What does it mean to follow one’s calling into an abbey and a brewery? Inspired by the growth of the American craft beer movement, a group of Catholic monks in Spencer, Massachusetts produces America’s first “Trappist-certified” beer, a historically European tradition that offers an opportunity for the community to preserve their unique way of life. “Ora et labora” is Latin for “work and prayer,” and is the motto of the Christian monastic life.

Chronicle of a Summer Day

Loosely documenting John Caleb Pendleton’s (Planks & Pistils) 2021 Juneteenth floral installation, CHRONICLE OF A SUMMER DAY is a community bouquet of remembrance and celebration.

Symphonic Sketches

Directed by Chris Barron

SYMPHONIC SKETCHES tells the story of one classical music concert, focusing on three diverse musicians that bring it to life.

Friday Night Blind

Directed by Robb Fischer, Scott Krahn

It’s another Friday night at Burnham Bowl: strikes, spares, gutter balls with no shortage of trash talking and victory dancing. But the group that’s making all the noise isn’t just another bowling league. The Milwaukee Beer Barrels Blind Bowling League is an eclectic mix of visually impaired and sighted bowlers with a simple focus: making friends, having fun, and taking life one frame at a time. FRIDAY NIGHT BLIND is the warm, quirky, and inspiring story of three visually impaired bowling friends and the way they roll.