Shorts Program 11: Documentary Shorts 1 TRT 98 MIN
Dancing Warrior (USA, 11 MIN)
Director: Peter Goetz, Rachel McDonald
For the Lakota youth, living on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation can be a struggle. But many find hope and purpose in the traditional sport of horse racing known as “Indian Relay.” Witness the coming-of-age story of Lakota teens, as they find strength in tradition and passion in competition.
God Make Me an Artist (USA, 13 MIN)
Director: Benjamin Smith Cast: Benjamin Watts, Lori Watts
God Make an Artist is a short documentary which chronicles the life and work of sculptor and Mississippi native, Benjamin Barnes Watts. The film, 3 years in production, follows Watts through every stage during the creation of an original commissioned statue for the national headquarters of Kappa Sigma in Charlottesville Virginia. The piece also serves to document Ben’s journey from childhood, his faith, and the highs and lows of his career. God Make Me an Artist is an intimate portrait of a celebrated sculptor and the spirit that drives him.
Ripple (USA, 15 MIN)
Writer: Michael McCourt, Jay Zaretsky, Rae Ripple Director: Michael McCourt Cast: Rae Ripple, Chloe Ashcraft, Kash Ripple
When you meet Rae Ripple you can immediately feel her spark. A survivor of abuse and a byproduct of a toxic childhood, we connect with Rae as she reflects on the landmarks of her life and how she turned her struggles into an art form. Her unique craft has now evolved into salvaging neglected old cars and transforming them into amazing artifacts designed to endure.
TR(ol)L (USA, 17 MIN)
Writer/Director: Yourgo Artsitas
In 1999, a chain letter began to matriculate around online message boards. The goal? Get New Kids On The Block’s 1989 music video “Hangin’ Tough” on Total Request Live. Why? Cuz it wud b funny lmao.
Pet Store (USA, 16 MIN)
Director: Joanna Rothkopf Cast: Larry Wallach
Larry Wallach insists that exotic pet ownership is safe and ethical, and anyone who disagrees should visit his petting zoo next to a freeway on Long Island to see for themselves.
Awaiting the decision on her eight-year-old asylum case, a Venezuelan woman reflects on her journey to New York City and nurtures the migrant-support organization she founded while in limbo.
The Believers (USA, 20 MIN)
Director: Evan Newman
Disciples of an ancient tattoo believed to offer supernatural powers gather for a sacred day, where forces known and unknown erupt.
