@Lina Lyte Plioplyte - I thought this is an interesting new resource that will be launching soon.. https://www.theshareplatform.com/

Did you see? The most coveted film festival just announced what films got selected. What are you excited to see? SELENA AND THE DINOS for me (huge fan of Selena here). What are yours? https://festival.sundance.org/program/films/category=5fb4da8e6b7bc34e61578edd?utm_source=ActiveCampaign&utm_medium=email&utm_content=It%20s%20Here%21%20See%20the%202025%20Festival%20Program%21&utm_campaign=sff25_pre-fest_6

A few nights ago I dragged myself out to a local documentarians meet up that a friend mentioned to me. It would be good for me, I said. And I am so glad I did! Within 15 mins of inner social uncomfort, I realized everyone here is working on inspiring doc projects. We broke the ice, and then got to watch multiple works-in-progress. Words cannot describe the comradery, alignment and inspiration that happens when like minded people from documentary field come together. We shared our suggestions, commented on each others works and brainstormed different solutions to the sticky parts. It does so good to one’s soul - and we all learned about each other’s way of working, tips and tricks, and how differently we approach interviews, drone footage, characters. This was truly a gift - to be in an active room full of filmmakers. And these meet ups are happening in every major town. Find yours, and connect with local filmmakers, whether you’re working on something or not. Trust me, it will enhance your filmmaking skills and make you feel grounded in a community. Should we start meetups in this community??

I just watched Motorcycle Mary short film, and I think it's such a great example of a hero story: here's an extraordinary old lady recalling her life - one interview, creatively intercut with a lot of archive. Note that one doesn't need to have a ton of Mary-specific archival, they used a lot of generic racing archival. The editing speed - closer to music video than typical short doc - vivid, dramatic sound track, pauses to let the story breathe, and her personality quirks, accentuated and exposed in a lively way (like those moments of taking a breath), makes this a very entertaining short. Amazing example for anyone thinking to make a film about their amazing aunt 😉 Watch and let me know what you think! What grabbed your attention?