The Academy Awards shortlist has been announced and we are thrilled that the following WMM films and filmmakers are on the list:
GOING TO MARS: THE NIKKI GIOVANNI PROJECT
Directed by Michèle Stephenson, Joe Brewster
A WMM Production Assistance Program Film
The winner of the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance 2023, this examination presents the life of poet Nikki Giovanni, highlighting the transformative periods she has chronicled in her work, from Civil Rights to the Black Lives Matter movement. Learn more
TO KILL A TIGER
Directed by Nisha Pahuja
A WMM Production Assistance Program Film
Winner of the 2022 Amplify Voices Award for Best Canadian Feature at the Toronto International Film Festival and 20 other awards, TO KILL A TIGER (dir. Nisha Pahuja) follows Indian farmer Ranjit who takes on the fight of his life when he demands justice for his 13-year-old daughter, the victim of a brutal gang rape. Learn more
BLACK GIRLS PLAY: THE STORY OF HAND GAMES
Directed by WMM filmmakers Michèle Stephenson & Joe Brewster
Michèle Stephenson and Joe Brewster’s film uncovers the historical and cultural impact of hand games played by Black girls, connecting them from slavery to their influence on music genres like jazz and hip hop, and their presence in modern trends like TikTok. It celebrates the often-ignored contributions of young Black girls as the original creators of these culturally significant games. Learn more
THE ETERNAL MEMORY
Directed by WMM Program Alum Maite Alberdi
This documentary portrays the life of Augusto, a prominent Chilean cultural figure, and his wife Paulina, who became his caretaker after his Alzheimer’s diagnosis. It highlights their 25-year journey of love and resilience, juxtaposing Augusto’s past role in preserving Chile’s collective memory with his current fight to retain his own, all through the lens of their enduring bond and humor amidst adversity. Learn more
THE BARBER OF LITTLE ROCK
Co-directed by WMM Program Alum Christine Turner
In Little Rock, Arlo Washington, a visionary barber, establishes People Trust, a nonprofit bank tackling the racial wealth gap. It’s the sole banking option in a ten-mile radius, designed to empower historically marginalized communities with financial stability and growth. Learn more
