ETSU is running a series of indie documentaries from the South Arts Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers, and students are encouraged to learn about modern issues by screening the semester’s final two online.
For over a decade, ETSU has been sponsoring films from South Arts. This program provides the region with a connection to U.S.-based filmmakers and their community-impacting work.
The current set of films began in September and ends Nov. 10, wrapping up with two documentaries focused on relevant societal issues.
“And So I Stayed,” a 2021 documentary discussing domestic violence and criminal justice reform, plays Oct. 24-27.
Natalie Pattillo, the film’s co-director, producer and writer commented on the personal nature of the film, noting, “As someone who still has to deal with my abuser—despite leaving and doing exactly what the system demands of me—the mission to make this film is a personal one.”
An abuse survivor and woman of color, Pattillo is adamant that the film has power, saying, “I believe that our film can uplift survivors in a culture where they are disbelieved and villainized rather than protected. I believe it is my personal duty to not just make this film, but to make a searing, indelible impact on everyone who engages with it.”
The final film, “Duty Free,” is a 2020 film that runs from Nov. 7-10, and is directed by Sian-Pierre Regis, a contributor for CNN, HLN, MTV and CBS. This film tells the story of a 75-year-old migrant mother who is fired from her lifelong job as a hotel housekeeper. The film deals with the topics of aging, senior issues and income security.
The Mary B. Martin School of the Arts hosts the free online viewings through its website and will continue the series with five new documentaries during the spring semester.
Visit www.etsu.edu/martin to view trailers and register for the free virtual screenings.
