Protect At All Costs (Documentary Shorts #1)
- Shorts Programs
- 68 mins
From a beloved local book store owner to madly in love puzzle collectors, the characters in this collection of documentary short films don’t shy away from living lives of true authenticity.
In this program
Saving Superman
Directed by Adam Oppenheim, Samuel-Ali Mirpoorian
In a small suburb outside of Chicago lives Jonathan, a 57 year old man with ASD (autism spectrum disorder), also known as ‘Superman’. Known for his heroic actions, Jonathan is a revered member of the Glen Ellyn community and has been a staple in the 4th of July Parade for nearly 30 years. When Jonathan’s living circumstances were threatened by a new building owner, the townspeople sprung into action after his best friend Julie started a fundraiser to save his home.
Rooted for the Future
Directed by Benjamine Reid
We follow the journey of three homeless teenagers in crisis who end up in Charlotte North Carolina’s non-profit “The Relatives.” We see the life-changing and transformational work of this crisis center through the teen’s eyes. Sometimes the assistance is as straightforward as counseling, sometimes it’s a place to nap during the day that’s safe, sometime’s it’s food on an empty stomach, sometimes it’s simply someone to talk to.
Mr. Troy
Directed by Ken Gregory
MR. TROY is a documentary that explores the remarkable journey of Troy D. Brown, a world-renowned ballet dancer whose exceptional talent and unwavering dedication to his art have transcended barriers of race and prejudice.
Birdfeeder
Directed by Daniel Feighery
The birds outside a Brooklyn window help a man heal as the world turns upside down. When a family of birds move in on his fire escape, they bring hope for a new beginning.
A Modern Family
Directed by Tyler St. Pierre
The film follows the journey that Tyler St. Pierre went on after the death of his father when he suddenly learned his true parentage. What began as a secret finally coming out opened up a whole new world with far more questions than answers. What does family mean these days anyway?
Used Books
Directed by Cory Warner
This short documentary focuses on Jeannie Hunt, the owner of Jeannie’s Used Books, a beloved community bookstore for over 22 years. The film follows Jeannie and the community’s efforts to relocate her store and its 275,000 books amidst ownership changes, rising rents, and the broader challenges faced by small bookstores nationwide.
The Puzzle Palace
Directed by Brian Bell, Jenny Schweitzer Bell
In a Boca suburb, a couple retire to a second marriage of freedom, play, and the world’s largest puzzle collection.