Stellar Cinematic's: A Powerful Preview on the Road to the Oscars
- Jaysalee "Stellar"
- May 23
- 2 min read
In a celebration of storytelling, community, and Oscar-worthy documentary filmmaking, social app Vouch and DCTV Cinema for Documentary Film “FireHouse” hosted the official press conference for Road to the Oscars. As you enter the beautiful and homey theater you are greeted by a giant red front of a fire truck for you to order your snacks. Guests were welcomed with complimentary refreshments before being ushered into the screening room.
We heard some opening remarks from Dimitar, one of the co-owners for Vouch. Then we dove into the films. The screening was for press and media only which allowed for an intimate crowd. The first film we watched was “Exodus” directed by Nimco Sheikhaden and it was one of my personal favorites. The documentary dove deep into the story of two women on two separate journeys settling into society after incarceration. The film provides a personal insight on the women's stories adjusting to life after prison while also facing the challenge of reconnecting with family. It was powerful, inspiring, and cinematic. Exodus is a documentary that sparks necessary dialogue.
Following Exodus we saw “Once Upon A Westland” directed by Elizabeth Miller- Derstine, a film that celebrated creativity and self expression. “Once Upon A Westland” brought a smile to my face as it really captured the beauty of community. This was a light hearted film and reminded me of something I would see on TLC.
One of the documentaries that really captured my attention was “Teddy”. Director Lauren Santucci offers a rare glimpse into one of the very few male dula’s in the world. This story followed Teddy while he guided a couple through their pregnancy showing the vulnerable and powerful visuals of the birth. This sparked a lot of conversation from the crowd during the Q&A as it is not common for many people to see a male Dula let alone the process of the Dula going through the pregnancy with the mom and the dad. It was very beautiful and inspirational.
The last two films showed an intimate look into the directors personal lives touching on topics like health, acceptance, family, and community. “Expression of Illness” directed by Bryn Silverman & “Hiraeth” directed by Konga Choephel were two films that really showed viewers the vulnerable side to the director's personal journeys.
After we watched all the movies and the Q&A session began, the press / media was able to dive into questions that they had for the directors. We were also able to network and connect with everyone afterwards which was a lot of fun. Overall the press conference was a success and I can not wait to celebrate with all the hard working directors for the Red Carpet Premiere!
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