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: Docs and Donuts - St. Joan of Arc

In Honor of Sally and Tom Florkiewicz

Start your day on a sweet note! Treat yourself to donuts, coffee, and a captivating selection of shorts. $20 individual ticket, included with membership Family Explorer and above.

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10:30 AM: Environmental Shorts - Federated Church

Join Katie Veteto as she learns to drive Idaho's iconic 4,000 pound sweep boat down the Middle Fork of the Salmon River. You may find yourself holding your breath watching her navigate these rocky rapids!

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11:00 AM: International Stories - CDFF on the Triangle

A uniquely beautiful experimental animated documentary, TWO ONE TWO captures the experience of motherhood through shimmering clay on glass.

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11:30 AM: Broken Eyes - Chagrin Valley Little Theatre

After laser correction eye surgery goes wrong and changes this filmmaker's life forever, she uses investigative journalism to reveal thousands of patients in a clandestine network that have been irreversibly affected with complications from LASIK surgery. Her personal journey challenges perceptions and raises important questions about medical ethics and patient safety for elective procedures.

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11:30 AM: St. Joan Salad Luncheon - St. Joan of Arc

Don't miss the festival's most popular event - the famous salad lunch paired with a showcase of 2024 Festival short films!  Reservations in advance through the St. Joan's Women's committee $25 individual ticket, included with membership Visionary and above.

12:30pm: Diary of an Elephant Orphan - Federated Church

Meet Khanyisa, a baby elephant orphaned by poaching in Africa. Dedicated caregivers in a local elephant refuge work to nurse Khanyisa, a sweet albino calf, back to health with a chance for a new life. In the process, profound bonds are forged as intimate moments take us through the orphan's preparation to join a herd of elephants raised at the sanctuary. With stunning cinematography, the transformative power of love and care for these majestic creatures shines through.

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1:00pm: People You Need To Meet - CDFF on the Triangle

Shattering barriers and bowing strings, Dale Hikawa's journey as the Los Angeles Philharmonic's first Asian American woman musician resonates beyond the concert hall. This film delves into the soul-stirring odyssey of an artist who dared to rewrite the score of her destiny.

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1:30pm: The Animal Thing -  Chagrin Valley Little Theatre

Most see the controversial life of Andrew Linzey, animal rights pioneer and maverick theologian, as a great success. Andrew, however, sees it much differently. In this intimate documentary crafted lovingly by Linzey's son, we follow Linzey's journey as he challenges the Anglican Church, Oxford University, and societal norms in his lifelong fight for animal welfare. This warm, thought-provoking film educates rather than preaches, offering a fresh perspective on faith, ethics, and our relationship with animals.

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2:30pm: Built Different - CDFF on the Triangle

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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2:45pm: Art Shorts - Federated Church

In this beautifully reflective film, two autistic artists, a photographer and a composer share their reflections on navigating life and art on the autism spectrum. Gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be neurodivergent in the arts.

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3:40pm: Ultimate Citizens - Chagrin Valley Little Theatre

Everyone remembers a favorite teacher or coach when growing up. Meet an Iranian immigrant who makes a profound impact in America through coaching a diverse frisbee team of young immigrants and refugees. Experience the impact of one man's guidance and the determination of his young athletes as they forge their paths in an unfamiliar country. Through the lens of a simple frisbee, viewers appreciate how sports can bridge cultural divides and foster a sense of home for those seeking new beginnings.

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4:00pm: Filmmaker Panel - Chagrin Township Hall
5:15pm: Student Shorts II - CDFF on the Triangle

When Beverly Met Reita

Old Hollywood star and "Wallpaper Queen" Reita was in search of a prodigy to pass down her wallpapering empire. When she met Beverly, almost 60 years her junior, she knew she had found that special someone. Exploring this dynamic duo's bond in this beautiful film about love and friendship.

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5:15pm: A Good Wolf - Chagrin Falls Intermediate School Theater

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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5:15pm: 348 Songs - Federated Church

348 is the amazing number of songs written by Fred Bruch, a 91-year-old songwriting legend from Nashville's golden era. Despite penning classics like "Tragedy," covered by Paul McCartney, Fred remains an unsung hero of music. His family and fellow musicians reveal the magic of 1960s Nashville and the creative process that shaped an era. Fred's contagious laugh and ability to tell a great story will touch your soul. You'll leave humming forgotten tunes created by this overlooked musical genius. SPECIAL EVENT

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5:30pm:  Michelin Stars: Tales from the Kitchen - Chagrin Valley Little Theatre

A behind the scenes look at how the coveted Michelin Stars are awarded to chefs and restaurants and the intense work it takes to hold on to the distinction. Chronicling the inner workings of the culinary world, this film reveals the impact of the little red book on the world of haute cuisine through the eyes of chefs, critics and patrons.

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5:30pm: Meet the Filmmakers Wine Tasting

Enjoy select French wines from the Anderson's private cellars. Each paired with a French delicacy by the Paris Room. Secret venue revealed exclusively to Dreamers and Sustainers

7:00pm: Besties and Bites: Ladies Night Out!

M Bevy - 87 West St. Chagrin Falls Movie night with friends! Catch a flick, then hit M Bevy for tasty bites and drinks. $25 individual ticket, included with membership CDFF 100 and above. Ticket includes Ladies Night boa, drink, and fun appetizers.

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7:30pm: Local High School Shorts - CDFF on the Triangle

The Massillon Washington football team hasn't won a state championship in 53 years. But with dedication and teamwork, this hardworking team sets out to claim victory once again.

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7:30pm: Porcelain War - Chagrin Falls Intermediate School Theater

In war-torn Ukraine, devastation and heartbreak are felt daily for a porcelain artist, her family and friends. The balance between destruction and creation is a metaphor, likening the human spirit to fine porcelain…fragile yet remarkably strong. Raw war footage captures these incredible individuals, finding beauty in the chaos of war. A difficult war film that demonstrates how art and expression can sustain people through unimaginable hardship. This unexpected and heartwarming film will stay with you long after the movie ends.

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7:30pm: Hungarian Heritage: A Celebration of Culture - Chagrin Valley Little Theatre

Filmed in Hungary and the United States between 1988 and 1996, TROOP 214 is a personal odyssey of exile and return. Music, pageantry, and clashing ideologies mark this historical exploration of two competing youth organizations and their cultures. TROOP 214 uses interviews and archival footage to trace the history of scouting in Hungary from its origins before World War I, through suppression and exile after 1948, to the legal return of Scouts to Hungary in 1989. It is a journey with unusual twists and turns.

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