Sat Sept 20 - SHINERS at Global Peace Film Festival - Orlando, FL - closing night film

"We've got to actively and intentionally create structure to support people having meaning and purpose in life. This is what the humanities are for - this is what art is for - saying, I am me. I am human. This is my story." WATCH

Sun Sept 14 - Oak Park IL Film Festival

Winner - Best Director - Sat Aug 16 - SHINERS at Big Sandy Film Festival in Louisa, KY

"A celebration of youth, place, and the transformational power of storytelling."

FolkFest in Cumberland Gap TN on Sat, Aug 9 at 2 pm

SHINERS at Richmond, KY Cinemark - June 22, 2025 - tickets

Winner - Best Documentary - March 2025, 28th annual Lindsey Film Festival

Winner - Jury Directing Award Blue Whiskey Independent Film Festival

Winner - Best Documentary Pottsville Film Festival

An 86 minute documentary. Along with stunning original and traditional music, high school students write and perform a play about growing up in rural Appalachia. While overcoming problems of addiction in one of the nation's poorest counties, the inspiring students travel from their small town to Kentucky’s high school theater competition. The hearts and voices of the young people at Owsley County High School in eastern Kentucky shine as they share their story.

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Seth McClellan, filmmaker: As a filmmaker, I’m fascinated and committed to reframing stories through unfamiliar voices. My hope is by lifting up youth voices we can hear their concerns and complex challenges in fresh ways. Many of the films I’ve helped make have engaged with using nonviolence to effect change…

Bob Martin, producer: As a producer, I’ve been involved in dozens of youth media projects…

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