Annual Chagrin Documentary Film Festival

Join Us For The 15th Annual Chagrin Documentary Film Festival October 1st-6th, 2024

The Chagrin Documentary Film Festival is dedicated to educating audiences and empowering talented filmmakers to tell their stories.  The Festival is a five-day celebration of the art of documentary film, at venues in and around the century village of Chagrin Falls, Ohio. This inspiring event draws audiences from all over Northeast Ohio, the US, and the world to experience documentary films and the compelling art and culture they highlight.

Schedule of Events:

9:00am: Historical Film and Bagels - Chagrin History Center

Start your festival day right with bagels, hot coffee, and a historical feature film. $20 individual tickets, included for members Igniter and above.

Letters From The Battlefield

Jacqueline Lundquist, the wife of former Ohio Governor Richard Celeste, unveils a deeply personal odyssey of her father's Vietnam War experience. Hundreds of letters and tapes were created by her father, Donald C. Lundquist before his death. Jacqueline unearths these relics and begins a quest to understand her father by retracing his footsteps through Vietnam. Interviews with political figures make this documentary an interesting testament to the universal human experience within the chaos of war.

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11:00am: Built Different - Chagrin Valley Little Theatre

This amazing story introduces us to Paige Calendine as she overcomes the challenges of being born without legs. Her mother Heidi says that Paige is "built differently,'' due to her determination as a competitor in gymnastics and archery. Paige's family and community plays a crucial part in nurturing the talent of this gifted young girl. This film challenges perceptions and proves that physical limitations need not define one's potential.

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12:00pm: A Good Wolf - South Franklin Circle

The land bordering Denali National Park is part of a 40 year debate. The complex conflict between state and federal authorities, fur trappers, and wildlife advocates are at the center of the debate. This film underscores deep-seated differences in conservation ethics and human interests on public lands.

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12:30pm: Spyral - Chagrin Valley Little Theatre

Panel Following Screening: Navigating Mental Illness

Experts discuss how the healthcare system fails to meet rising needs for bipolar and other mental illnesses affecting millions. What can be done to help patients and their families in crisis?

Spyral

Bipolar disorder affects more than 5 million Americans and their families. This powerful film is a raw look at the challenges and triumphs of living with this condition. Randy, a rising rock star, and Michelle, a gifted writer with a family legacy of addiction, navigate personal battles amidst growing success. Michelle continues to struggle with bipolar disorder and challenges Randy's unwavering commitment to protect their daughter. Filmgoers will witness an incredible story showcasing the enduring power of love.

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2:15pm: Running for the Mountains - South Franklin Circle

West Virginia currently struggles with undercurrents of dark money and political maneuvering. Citizens unite to protect their state's natural resources from the forces of extraction industries. This film boldly confronts the pro-extraction politicians, including Senator Joe Manchin and coal baron Governor Jim Justice. Appalachia has long been a symbol of American resilience, and this documentary highlights the tenacity and dedication of these individuals.

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2:30pm: A Cup of Serenity and a Dose of Well-being - CDFF on the Triangle

Escape the bustle for peace and simplicity. Enjoy a curated wellness session, film, and nourishing tea. Leave refreshed and transformed. Hosted by Sun and Spirit WellBeing. $20 individual ticket, included for members Igniter and above.

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2:30pm: The European Dream - Chagrin Valley Little Theatre

Julius Klausner and Robert Graetz, German Jewish industrialists, defied the odds to build their economic empires from scratch. In 2016, a letter listing looted artworks from WWII brings their two grandchildren on a poignant journey to reclaim their lost art. Fritz Enderlein is an 88-year-old German lawyer who fought in the Wehrmacht and now works tirelessly to restore works of art stolen during the Holocaust to their rightful owners, decades after they were taken. Together, they navigate a complex web of bureaucracy, concealment, and denial as they delve deeper into the world of art.

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4:00pm: The One With Hope - South Franklin Circle

Nigerian children accused of witchcraft are being saved by Anja Ringgren Lovén, who founded Land of Hope. She captured global attention when a photo of her rescuing a 2-year-old boy went viral. Explore Anja's dual life between Denmark and Nigeria, revealing the relentless challenges she faces in her crusade. Viewers witness the harsh realities and complexities of humanitarian work, where the true cost of saving lives is measured in resilience and unwavering dedication.

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4:00pm: Regenerating Communities

New life blossoms in a Cleveland neighborhood when four childhood friends transform their community through urban farming. Rid-All, their non-profit project, converts vacant lots into thriving greenhouses, showcasing the power of grassroots action. This real-life story of community rebirth proves that passion and perseverance can cultivate remarkable change. Rid-All is part of the Farmer Jones indoor farmers market, your fresh produce close to home!

5:00pm: Our League - CDFF on the Triangle

Bowling leagues are an important part of Cleveland's history. Mahall's, a bowling alley and institution has been a place where men have gathered for decades. A diverse cast of old school bowlers takes center stage, including Michelle, a transgender woman who has found acceptance in the league. This beloved local bowling landmark becomes a microcosm of broader societal transformations.

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5:15pm: The Body Politic - Chagrin Valley Little Theatre

"You need to be the change if you want change" are the words Baltimore Mayor's Brandon Scott lives by as he tackles violence plaguing his beloved city. Unfiltered access to the mayor's first year reveals his commitment to change despite surging violence and opposition. Through Brandon Scott's journey we see his resilience and gain insight into the complexities of governance. Rick Jackson will virtually interview Mayor Scott following the film.

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5:30pm: Ohio Stories - Chagrin Falls Intermediate School Theater

The most deliciously absurd neighborhood feud you've ever seen, this documentary that proves truth is stranger than fiction! Watch a simple backyard hobby spiral into a national spectacle.

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5:30pm: Ripples of Plastic - South Franklin Circle

This compelling documentary unveils the hidden crisis threatening North America's Great Lakes. The invasion of microplastics into Earth's largest freshwater system endangers delicate ecosystems. Activists race against time to solve this critical issue. From groundbreaking research to community action, the film showcases efforts to preserve these majestic waters and reveals the shocking reality of plastic pollution. Viewers will gain a new perspective on water conservation and environmental stewardship. This powerful journey challenges us to rethink our relationship with plastics and water.

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7:00pm: 7 Beats Per Minute - South Franklin Circle

Imagine holding your breath for 6 minutes or more to become a world champion. Enter the visually stunning world of competitive free diving. This breathtaking documentary invites you to witness the courage and strength of renowned free diver, Jessea Lu, as she overcomes her doubts and personal struggles. Extraordinary underwater shots capture every heart-pounding moment of this diver's journey back to her beloved sport. Lu's triumph over fear powerfully showcases the strength of the human spirit.

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7:15pm: Ignited States - CDFF on the Triangle

Jud Nichols has dedicated his life to fighting injustice and its lasting effects. After the murder of George Floyd, this zealous public defender becomes a relentless video journalist almost overnight, capturing the unrest that erupted in the aftermath. As an insider in both legal and activist worlds, Nichols offers unexpected insights as he strives to make sense of a pivotal moment in history.

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7:30pm: Art for Everybody - Chagrin Falls Intermediate School Theater

If you think you know artist Thomas Kinkade, the prolific "Artist of Light," think again. Behind the beauty of his paintings lay a turbulent reality. This gripping biopic unravels the divide between Kinkade's celebrated artistry and the personal struggles that defined his life. His family recounts Kinkade's descent from a troubled past and reveals a life overshadowed by fame and the pursuit of perfection. The surprise ending of this story is not to be missed. (Audience is invited to bring their favorite Kinkade treasure to display).

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7:30pm: CDFF's Inspiration: The Lost Sparrows of Roodepoort - Chagrin Valley Little Theatre

Celebrate a special CDFF 15th anniversary by watching the film that inspired it all! A panel of those involved with the film will join us. Raise a glass of champagne and indulge in a delicious South African dessert as we honor our journey. $25 individual ticket, included with membership Family Explorer and above.

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