With Salem Film Fest just around the corner, our programmers have handpicked a selection of must-see films to help you plan your schedule. These Programmers' Picks highlight some of the most thought-provoking and captivating documentaries in this year’s lineup—films that have stuck with us long after the credits rolled. Dive in and discover what’s not to be missed!
HOMEGROWN
Saturday, Mar. 29 @ 3:30pm, Cinema Salem
We've extended our time for Q&A for this screening to encourage civil discourse. SFF Alum Margo Guernsey (NO TIME TO FAIL, SFF 2023) will moderate the post-screening discussion with Director Michael Premo & Producer Rachel Falcone.
"In a time when the strength of our democracy is being tested, HOMEGROWN digs at the roots of those pushing its limits. As U.S. politics continue to shift, this film lingers, evolving with the moment and growing more urgent with time."
- Emily Abi-Kheirs, Program Director
BLACK SNOW
Sunday, March 30 @ 3:00pm
Director Alina Simone in attendance!
"BLACK SNOW is an eco-political thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I found this film to be a compelling and foreboding tale chronicling the true threat of unchecked government power." - Jeff Schmidt, Programmer Emeritus
LIFE AFTER
Saturday, March 29 @ 6:30pm, Cinema Salem
Director Reid Davenport will be in attendance for this North East Premiere! The film is open-captioned and ASL interpretation will be provided for the introduction and post-screening Q&A. A/D is available and there is a limited number of devices available at the cinema.
"LIFE AFTER is a nuanced and deeply caring film that tackles an incredibly difficult issue that the general public knows almost nothing about. The film pushes the audience to think about the value of a human being and what it means to care for one another in our society." - Heather Cassano, Programmer
THE SHEPHERD AND THE BEAR
Saturday, March 29 @ 2:45pm, Peabody Essex Museum
Director Max Keegan will be in attendance for live Q&A!
Join us after the screening for our Wine Tasting with Filmmakers from 4-6pm at Salem Wine Imports.
"Set in the breathtaking landscape of the French Pyrenees, first-time filmmaker Max Keegan explores the conflict provoked by the reintroduction of brown bears within a traditional shepherding community. Prepare for stunning visuals paired with an equally beautiful musical score; this intimate look into a vanishing world captures the tension between humans and a changing environment."
- Monica Cohen, Programmer
HEIGHTENED SCRUTINY
Thursday, March 27 @ 7:30pm, Cinema Salem
Director Sam Feder will be in attendance for live Q&A following the screening!
Join us before the screening at our Kick Off Party from 5-7pm at Old Town Hall!
"After watching this film I knew I wanted to watch it again in Salem. HEIGHTENED SCRUTINY is a classic film in style, made in and of the moment, it opens the dialogue about civil liberties and what we do to defend them."
- Saul Argenbright, Programmer
CONCERTO FOR OTHER HANDS
Saturday, Mar. 29 @ 12:45pm
Director Ernesto González Díaz will be in attendance for live Q&A! This film is spoken in Spanish with English subtitles on screen. CC and A/D devices are not available for this screening. ASL interpretation will be provided for the introduction and post-screening Q&A!
"Knitting together themes of family, interpersonal connection, the power of art, and the intensely personal ways that each of our bodies is capable of making unique, expressive music, the film is equal parts engrossing and inspiring."
- Joel Roston, Programmer
