Inside Southwest Detroit is proud to be back to present a small series of short films at this year’s SW Fest! Join us on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at the historic Senate Theater, starting at 1:20 PM on the indoor stage.
This series features three short films and a special collection of locally produced stories captured on smartphones by youth from Southwest Detroit. Each film highlights storytelling about, in, or relevant to Southwest Detroit and/or features contributions by local filmmakers. We hope you enjoy the show!
Terrible Ollie Attempt
Film by Romo de Ashley
Romo de Ashley repeatedly attempts an ollie on their skateboard, falling and failing, and finding joy in the process in this beautiful 30-second short. Playful sounds and dance capture the rhythm of resilience, love, and life’s journey. “Having fun will have you fall in order to laugh. Life has all sorts of winds and treasures that you will stumble upon—failing will be done, but dealt with. The journey of that process is the real joy of all.”
Nadia's Story: Drivers License For All
Directed by Silvana Lázaro
Cinematography by Luis Lomeli Oseguera
Nadia's Story is a short film about a young girl balancing her teenage years while also being the primary person in her family to drive freely, without fear. This story also highlights the importance of our campaign to reinstate driver's licenses for all in Michigan. It is not only about gaining a document to drive a vehicle, but also about the right to move freely to care for our family.
Un Día Normal
Film by Maurizio Dominguez
Director, Producer, Writer, Editor
Based on real events, Un Día Normal tells the story of a young woman who is detained by Immigration & Customs Enforcement officers in the fall of 2017. Facing the threat of deportation, she has to manage through her panic to prove her valid DACA status to the officers - without revealing that her mother is undocumented.
Art of Storytelling Through the Smartphone
Produced by Inside Southwest Detroit x Anthony Valadez
Selected Shorts TBD
Southwest Detroit youth dive into the art of storytelling through smartphones at The Alley Project with Los Angeles DJ and cultural strategist Anthony Valadez. Witness their stories as they capture a day in their life, share personal narratives, and learn to use technology as a tool for creative expression and community engagement. Their shorts are an immersive experience in visual storytelling and are under construction through this week with Valadez at The Alley Project in Southwest Detroit.
