Sand Diego Black Film Festival – The Sweetest Land, Directed by Jeffrey Teitler
We are honored to announce the SAN DIEGO BLACK FILM FESTIVAL has selected THE SWEETEST LAND. Founded in 2002, the San Diego Black Film Festival has grown to become one of the largest black film festivals in the country. THE SWEETEST LAND will screen on Saturday Feb 1st. For tickets and additional information CLICK HERE
In urban America, there are community promises made, triumphant political speeches performed and conditions, which rarely change. Yet when the gunshots sound and blood spills, who shows up?
From the midnight surgeons, to a community on the brink of hope and sacrifice, THE SWEETEST LAND investigates real stories of violence, prevention and change, where complacency can no longer be an option.
Within film instruction, there are times of doubt…and the easiest thing to do is give up…but don’t! When your ideas are realized, the possibilities are predictable and endless!
We are pleased to announce that CCSU Film Graduate, Rashad Frett is a selected recipient of Spike Lee’s Production Fund. Frett, who graduated from CCSU’s Film program in 2009, has since been accepted to NYU’s prestigious MFA program in Film at Tisch School of the Arts. His work has been seen in national and international film festivals.
Rashad Frett Professor Jeff Teitler
We are extraordinarily proud of Rashad and all others who continue to pursue their passions, advance skills and tenaciously tell meaningful stories. Never give up!
The heart of CCSU FILM’s achievement has always centered around the original ideas of our students While some ideas are controversial, others can be light-hearted and comedic. But more than dreaming ideas, our students regularly exercise, cast, explore, costume and rigorously develop the necessary skills to produce their ideas. The process is by no means easy….But it can be absolutely transformative.
We are pleased to announce CCSU Film student’s, Ryan Sehmi and Michaela Salvo are an Official Selection at the Women’s Film Festival in Philadelphia.
In his own words, CCSU Film student, Ryan Sehmi describes the process of creating this compelling piece below:
“Every 92 seconds, another American is assaulted. One of these American’s is Michaela Salvo. This issue is disgusting and a majority of assaulters, including hers, get away with it.
The story of making a film on this subject originated by Michaela’s struggle to create photographs based on her assault. As an artist, she wanted create images in ways that communicated her life and mental health following her assault… but she was struggling.
While I was taking a film class at CCSU, I began working on this film, but the film we created was far different than when we first started. Beginning with a shot of my subject curled into a ball, the first draft was terribly lit in our bathroom. I look back at it in embarrassment when comparing it to what we have now. The process to get there included exploring and creating about 10 different versions of this film, but it allowed Michaela and I to find her truthful story.
Michaela Salvo Ryan Shemi – Professor Jeff Teitler
We showed drafts to our professor who appreciated the intent, and encouraged us to earn the “healing event” that we wanted. So we we went to the drawing board and continued.
Whenever we talk about assault, which is too infrequently, we talk about how the person is a victim… but that is all we talk about. We don’t focus on that person as a human, what their passions are, who they are. We see a shell of a person and that is wrong. We need to look at these humans as survivors.
We decided the visual of this film would show how a person who has been assaulted copes with their experience. For my girlfriend, it was creating self-portraits. Therefore, we decided to create a film of her preparing for one of these photoshoots… even using her some of the imagery she had created.
This approach seemed more effective and our professor agreed. Each week of the semester, he encouraged and guided us through the rest of the project. Many classes, I would present a new shoot and edit of the project, which brought us painfully and slowly closer to our current film.
Finally, on April 23rd 2019, it was completed. This process opened me up to the world of using cinema as a tool for combatting social issues. If not for my love for my girlfriend and her collaborating with me to create something that could help along with the one-on-one advising from our professor, this film would have never been made and I wouldn’t be on the path of using art in this way.
92 SECONDS will be featured at the WOMEN’S FILM FESTIVAL in Philadelphia this March.
Posted by Jeff Teitler – Professor of Communication
Production and Performance Studies
Central Connecticut State University
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We are pleased to announce THE SWEETEST LAND has won a prestigious Award of Merit Special Mention in SOCIAL JUSTICE from the IndieFEST Film Awards.
The IndieFEST Film Awards, recognized by IMDB, awards film, television, videography and new media professionals who demonstrate exceptional achievement in craft and creativity, and those who produce standout entertainment or contribute to profound social change. Entries are judged by highly qualified professionals in the film and television industry.
We are also pleased to announce a BRONZE award from the LATITUDE FILM AWARDS – LONDON as well as a SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD at the 2019 (IN)JUSTICE FOR ALL FILM FESTIVAL.
On behalf of the cast and crew of THE SWEETEST LAND, we are thrilled the message is getting out, that improvement in victims care and violence prevention remains possible and that lives can matter. With that, we are pleased to release a HOLIDAY MESSAGE from THE SWEETEST LAND
In urban America, there are community promises made, triumphant political speeches performed and conditions, which rarely change. Yet when the gunshots sound and blood spills, who shows up?
From the midnight surgeons, to a community on the brink of hope and sacrifice, THE SWEETEST LAND investigates real stories of violence, prevention and change, where complacency can no longer be an option.
THE SWEETEST LAND will receive its Chicago Premiere at theINTERNATIONAL SOCIAL CHANGE FILM FESTIVAL, followed by a Q&A, Saturday, September 28th at the DU SABLE MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY, Chicago, IL
The International Social Change Film Festival is a celebration of our common humanity through film, music, art & fashion. The Festival is committed to liberation and amplification of community voice, social justice and change.
Geraldine Thomas – The Sweetest Land – Directed by Jeffrey Teitler
In urban America, there are community promises made, triumphant political speeches performed and conditions, which rarely change. Yet when the gunshots sound and blood spills, who shows up?
From the midnight surgeons, to a community on the brink of hope and sacrifice, THE SWEETEST LAND investigates real stories of violence, prevention and change, where complacency can no longer be an option.
When you spend nights and weekends in one of New England’s most violent cities, you realize how little you know and how much can be revealed.
For years, I focused my camera on Connecticut’s capital city of Hartford. I was embedded with police, clergy, community organizations, emergency personnel and victims of violence. That footage is now part of “The Sweetest Land,” a documentary film playing at select festivals nationwide.
Beyond the inequities of how urban and suburban violence are treated, we have a clear ability to improve lives where violence most occurs — and at no additional cost.
The Sweetest Land – Jeffrey Teitler
In the emergency room, there are days when multiple gunshots victims arrive. Yet uncontrollable bleeding is immediately met with life-saving efforts. Instantly, a quiet space transforms as highly skilled individuals urgently apply the best-known protocols to heal. The trauma room is a sacred space: It mandates equality. Race, gender, economic status and political affiliation are of no concern. Instead, evidence-based procedures are applied regardless of who shows up.
That is what systems can accomplish when the best available practice is required. But what is actually being done to prevent these injuries in the first place?
We spend millions of dollars without knowing whether youth violence programs even work. This was from the U.S. surgeon general in 2001:
“Hundreds of youth violence prevention programs are being used in schools and communities throughout the country, yet little is known about the actual effects of many of them. Few such programs have been rigorously evaluated, including many ongoing efforts. The evaluations that have been done indicate that much of the money America spends on youth violence prevention is spent on ineffective — sometimes even harmful — programs and policies.”
Blueprints, part of the Institute of Behavioral Science at the University of Colorado at Boulder, has found tested, effective programs that work when implemented fully and faithfully, not in halfway measures.
To be fair, there are extraordinary individuals and organizations in prevention and victims’ services who clearly improve the lives they serve.
However, the research shows that most organizations cannot prove efficacy or consistency within their methods when a rigorous evaluation is applied. That means potentially unproven methods or harmful interventions in prevention and victims care are being practiced on youths and families most in need of competency.
We can do better.
When prevention works, it is no different from the life-changing moments in a trauma room. When you meet the humans whom violence prevention has failed, you gain an instant understanding of how important standards of care are, using the best methods with qualified prevention providers and rigorous evaluation. It is what we pay for.
Yet we rarely demand outside audits on prevention programs. CNN found that $54 million was entirely misspent on Chicago’s violence prevention efforts. The cracks grow wider as well-intentioned organizations and individuals serve as therapist, social worker, life coach, etc., but potentially lack the educational credentials or proven methods to produce change.
Connecticut’s lawmakers should demand proven standards of care for violence-prevention services in cities, as well as credentialed providers and evidence-based methods. They should verify that the services offered are actually being offered. They should not accept program “skimming,” accepting only youths, victims and families who have the best chances of success, rather than those most at risk of violence.
For “The Sweetest Land,” we traveled from Georgia to Boston. We heard similar stories time after time. Struggling families didn’t get help. Hartford has a few new programs in place to connect with victims of violence and their families. The question is whether they are preventing further violence. The city needs a qualified and independent inspector general to make sure those programs are getting properly evaluated.
Keep in mind that when violence strikes an urban area, normally a nation does not mourn with the victims’ families as it does those of mass shootings. Rarely are outpourings of funds established to meet urban family needs. In the too many deaths I have filmed, the hardships are overwhelming.
This disconnect existed with every victim of violence I captured.
We applaud that violence statistics are down in Connecticut overall, and that fewer people are incarcerated. These are major accomplishments. But make no mistake, violence persists.
It is preventable and it is actionable. And to any elected official and legislator, if you can guarantee that our best efforts are implemented and working — as if it were your child at-risk — you too would represent “The Sweetest Land.“
Jeffrey B. Teitler is a professor of Communication at Central Connecticut State University and artist in residence at St. Francis Hospital and Medical Center.
In urban America, there are community promises made, triumphant political speeches performed and conditions, which rarely change. Yet when the gunshots sound and blood spills, who shows up?
From the midnight surgeons, to a community on the brink of hope and sacrifice, THE SWEETEST LAND investigates real stories of violence, prevention and change, where complacency can no longer be an option.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – OFFICIAL SELECTIONS – THE SWEETEST LAND
We are so pleased to announce upcoming screenings of THE SWEETEST LAND at multiple film festivals in Saint Lous, Austin and Miami. Special thanks to the Capital City Black Film Festival, Urban Film Festival, CommUNITY Arts Festival.
In urban America, there are community promises made, triumphant political speeches performed and conditions, which rarely change. Yet when the gunshots sound and blood spills, who shows up?
From the midnight surgeons, to a community on the brink of hope and sacrifice, THE SWEETEST LAND investigates real stories of violence, prevention and change, where complacency can no longer be an option.
In the Fall of 2017, five Central Connecticut State University Film students produced several new works for NESN’s NEXT PRODUCER. This annual film competition and television show accepts student-productions from colleges and universities throughout the New England region.
In an unprecedented outcome, the Film Emphasis within CCSU’s Department of Communication is pleased to announce that all five students, who submitted works have been OFFICIALLY SELECTED for NESN’s NEXT PRODUCER. This semi final round includes a broadcast on the network, introductions to industry professionals such as Tom Werner and Brad Falchuk, as well as a chance to produce for the Red Sox and a job offer at the New England Sports Network.
All four CCSU student-films can be seen the NESN website by clicking the images below. Season 3 of “NESN Next Producer” will begin airing on the NESN network Saturday, Feb. 17, at 8:30 p.m. ET.
The Digital Filmmaking Program at Central Connecticut State University is pleased to present, Matt Kevorkian’s MIDNIGHTS AT THE DINER. This short film was developed in Kevorkian’s senior year at CCSU and was an Official Selection within the New Filmmakers, NY Film Festival, 2018.
MIDNIGHTS AT THE DINER – Directed by Matt Kevorkian, Featuring Zach Fontanez, Amber Marie Martinez, Anthony Rivera and Gerson Daniel Echevarria. Shot on location at the Athenian Diner in, Middletown, Connecticut
For a musician, every sound can be a symphony.
For updates and additional information, join us in Instagram and Facebook
Posted by, Professor, Jeff Teitler – CCSU Film Program – Department of Communication
Award winning documentary film on violence prevention
THE SWEETEST LAND will receive its West Coast / Los Angeles Premiere at the AWARENESS FILM FESTIVAL, followed by a Q&A, Thursday, October 10th, 5:30-7:00 PM, LA Live Regal Cinemas, 1000 W. Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
The Awareness Film Festival seeks to inform and inspire audiences through a program of films on Ecological, Political, Health/Well Being and Spiritual topics. AFF focus is to spotlight film-makers committed to making positive change throughout the world.
In urban America, there are community promises made, triumphant political speeches performed and conditions, which rarely change. Yet when the gunshots sound and blood spills, who shows up?
From the midnight surgeons, to a community on the brink of hope and sacrifice, THE SWEETEST LAND investigates real stories of violence, prevention and change, where complacency can no longer be an option.
We are so pleased to announce that THE SWEETEST LAND has won Best Documentary Feature in the Los Angeles Film Award’s February Selection and is nominated as the Best Documentary for 2019.
The LA Film Awards received 400+ five-star reviews on FilmFreeway, out of over 8,000 film festivals.LAFA’s Jury awards the best films through private screenings Best Picture awards.
In urban America, there are community promises made, triumphant political speeches performed and conditions, which rarely change. Yet when the gunshots sound and blood spills, who shows up?
From the midnight surgeons, to a community on the brink of hope and sacrifice, THE SWEETEST LAND investigates real stories of violence, prevention and change, where complacency can no longer be an option.
I would not presume to think that I can understand the experience of urban residents whose cities are under siege from chronic gun violence. But I do know now what it’s like to live in a town that is reeling from loss, acute pain and the grief that follows. Since my eyes have been opened by the Sandy Hook tragedy, I have come to realize that urban communities deserve all of the help, support and compassion that Newtown has been so grateful and comforted to receive. And I see enormous potential in our ability to unite in a common effort to save lives.
Ever since I first saw a rough cut of the gripping and inspiring documentary The Sweetest Land, I’ve given my whole-hearted support to the meaning behind the story, captured in poignant relief by filmmaker Jeffrey Teitler. This film shows the escalation of gun violence on the streets of Hartford and the devastating impact on the city’s residents, especially its youth population. Jeffrey’s camera follows gun violence victims and their families from trauma to recovery. We see those who are dedicated to addressing the violence, and are sadly surprised by those who are not. We are reminded that tragically, these problems exist in urban communities nationwide.
The Sweetest Land – Jeffrey Teitler
But this is preventable. Proven prevention strategies have been identified that can stem these losses and provide critical support to families and young people. There is a vital need for these types of programs, based in public health and science, to be brought out of the dark and applied to communities where they are needed the most. The time has come to replace feel-good efforts with strategies that actually enable youth to succeed, and provide them with road maps that lead them away from violence.
Louis and Betzy Torres in The Sweetest Land – Jeffrey Teitler, Director
Every day we wait, the bloodshed on the streets continues. It is real. It robs families of their loved ones, young people of their potential and the city of a little bit of its spirit every time another life falls.
There will be several months before The Sweetest Land is completed and ready to be released. In that time, what kind of movement is possible? What kind of infrastructure, comprised of influential leaders, celebrities, citizens and affected families can stand with this story, and unite communities across the country?
I believe that we can create a human connection between suburban and urban communities. I believe we can unite republicans and democrats in a cause that isn’t just about guns. And I believe that a first lady, a rural town and an urban community can lead the rest of the country in a movement. Together, we can bring about change and begin to save lives almost immediately. All of which will bring us closer to our potential as a country of equal promise and opportunity, the inspiration for the film’s title The Sweetest Land.
Sometimes a story, with the right people standing behind it, can change everything.
In urban America, there are community promises made, triumphant political speeches performed and conditions, which rarely change. Yet when the gunshots sound and blood spills, who shows up?
From the midnight surgeons, to a community on the brink of hope and sacrifice, THE SWEETEST LAND investigates real stories of violence, prevention and change, where complacency can no longer be an option.
While the majority of Film students at Central Connecticut State University focus on narrative and documentary filmmaking, there are other areas of production, which also lead to impressive outcomes. In Colleen Lennehan’s case, it was a New York Times publication – an honor given to selected photographers, who are screened by the paper’s Wedding Section.
A recent graduate of CCSU, Colleen struggled with just about every aspect of the production process. Though multiple films were conceived with zeal, she never allowed herself to perfect a single one. Needless to say, it was an odd choice when she enrolled in an Independent Film class during her final semester….and that’s when things changed.
COLLEEN:
For the majority of my time at CCSU, I was a Journalism major. I spent hours writing and editing articles about current events and ethics within journalism… but photography was my passion. Naturally, I also took Filmmaking courses in the Communication Department.
Colleen Lennehan – Jeff Teitler, Film Professor
While Filmmaking widened my ability to capture beauty, the exercises were not easy. Initially, we were assigned to explore themes of our interest through photography. Since the exercise was content-based, there were no aesthetic or technical requirements. I struggled with that. A lot!
As Teitler’s course progressed, I spent hours working with light. I used my family as models and felt like a complete fool. With increasing complications, the combination of exploring ideas, characters and behaviors with cinematic technique, light and critical thought was frustrating. But, I continued. I shot sporadically, brought in a bad mood consistently and never gave up….neither did the class.
Eventually, I became interested in filming on the theme of, “ bliss.” I began to apply cinematic technique, practiced and slowly, my ability to capture more meaningful and candid moments improved. These courses opened my creative side, by challenging my critical, aesthetic and technical sides…but it’s a process…and that process ultimately lead to my photography business today. As for my advice: Don’t let the aggravation of failure stop you from pursuing what you love. In every defeat, if you continue, you will find progress.
Since graduating only 2 years ago, Colleen has built her own wedding and photography business. Recently, her work was published in the New York Times. Colleen’s business has been steadily growing and the idea of “Bliss” remains her area of interest.
We are pleased to announce that the Fort Worth Independent Film Showcase has awarded The Sweetest Land a Best Documentary Feature, within the out-of-state film genre.
On behalf of THE SWEETEST LAND’s cast and crew, thank you to the Fort Worth Independent Film Showcase for recognizing the often overlooked survivors of inner city violence, the first responders, medics and our immediate need to improve conditions for all.
In urban America, there are community promises made, triumphant political speeches performed and conditions, which rarely change. Yet when the gunshots sound and blood spills, who shows up?
From the midnight surgeons, to a community on the brink of hope and sacrifice, THE SWEETEST LAND investigates real stories of violence, prevention and change, where complacency can no longer be an option.
This week THE SWEETEST LAND was honored to receive the endorsement of CT Against Gun Violence. Lobbying in Connecticut for over 25 years, CAGV focuses on the reduction of gun violence through education, coalition building and legislative action.
For many years we have been looking for a film that speaks to diverse communities, advocates and supporters of gun violence prevention alike, and that accurately portrays the sad truth of gun violence in Connecticut, specifically the violence that occurs in urban communities. The Sweetest land is just the film we have been looking for.
The Sweetest Land does a brilliant job of exposing the plaque of gun violence that has become a public health crisis in the United States. While there are many films out there that try to show the long-term devastation that gun violence has caused, this film accurately captures the reality that many of America’s cities face every day.
While suburban gun violence has gotten much of the attention in the media, this important film refocuses our attention and exposes decades long urban gun violence that exists in cities like Hartford, CT. THE SWEETEST LAND does an excellent job humanizing this problem and allows us to get closer to the families and survivors of gun violence. After seeing this film, people will be compelled to want to find common sense solutions to this senseless violence.
CT Against Gun Violence is proud to endorse the Sweetest Land.
Jeremy Stein – Executive Director – CT Against Gun Violence
Thank you CAGV for standing with THE SWEETEST LAND’s urban victims and families. According to the CDC, violence is preventable…but only if cities and states implement methods based in the best available evidence. A recent national study revealed that only 5% of such violence prevention organizations could prove their methods were effective at reducing violence. That number must be improved. Lives can matter.
In urban America, there are community promises made, triumphant political speeches performed and conditions, which rarely change. Yet when the gunshots sound and blood spills, who shows up?
From the midnight surgeons, to a community on the brink of hope and sacrifice, THE SWEETEST LAND investigates real stories of violence, prevention and change, where complacency can no longer be an option.
The prestigious Yale School of Drama consistently ranks within the top-three theatre schools in the country. Graduates include Meryl Streep, Sigourney Weaver, Paul Newman, Angela Basset and many others. Conversely, Central Connecticut State University’s Film program is not officially ranked. While we accept students with various interests, it is no surprise why five of our CCSU Film graduates were chosen to produce with the prestigious Drama School.
Quietly working in New Britain, Connecticut, for the last decade, CCSU’s Film program has focused on artistic and instructional rigor. Our emphasis exercises the skills, processes and exploration of content necessary for students to produce with. Through the years, we’ve accomplished impressive outcomes, but this weekend, our program reached a new milestone – 3 Central Connecticut State University Film graduates, were commissioned to produce with the Yale School of Drama.
As part of the State University System, CCSU’s Film program accepts students without any production experience. While the desire to tell stories is critical, it is actually the ability to revise, evaluate and sustain a practice of filmmaking, which builds meaningful productions and sustainable skills. Engaging in that work can be nothing short of transformational and often times, predictable.
This weekend, CCSU’s FILM program is proud to congratulate five of our graduates, Joshua Therrault, Rashad Frett, Colleen Brown, Kara Brewer and Robby Silcox. You continue to break new ground, grow your artistic techniques and model what is possible from a State University in New Britain, CT.. This is what we do!
Posted by, Professor, Jeff Teitler – CCSU Film Program – Department of Communication
We are pleased to announce THE SWEETEST LAND is an OFFICIAL SELECTION within the FORT WORTH INDEPENDENT FILM SHOWCASE. The film will be featured this July 26, 2019 in Fort Worth, TX . FWIFS is a top 100 best reviewed festivals on Film Freeway. LIVES CAN MATTER.
Stay tuned for upcoming screenings and additional awards. Violence is preventable. Lives must matter!
THE SWEETEST LAND
In urban America, there are community promises made, triumphant political speeches performed and conditions, which rarely change. Yet when the gunshots sound and blood spills, who shows up?
From the midnight surgeons, to a community on the brink of hope and sacrifice, THE SWEETEST LAND investigates real stories of violence, prevention and change, where complacency can no longer be an option.
THE SWEETEST LAND is a selected finalist in the Davinci Film Awards. DaVinci International Film Festival (DIFF) is a premier boutique awards platform celebrating independent cinema worldwide. DIFF’s Vitruvian Awards are hosted in Los Angeles, CA. In 2022, the DaVinci Film Institute — the organization’s NGO arm — will honor Creatives across multiple arts & sciences disciplines with a satellite awards ceremony in Washington DC.
Stay tuned for upcoming screenings and additional awards. Violence is preventable. Lives must matter!
THE SWEETEST LAND
In urban America, there are community promises made, triumphant political speeches performed and conditions, which rarely change. Yet when the gunshots sound and blood spills, who shows up?
From the midnight surgeons, to a community on the brink of hope and sacrifice, THE SWEETEST LAND investigates real stories of violence, prevention and change, where complacency can no longer be an option.
We are pleased to announce THE SWEETEST LAND wins an OUTSTANDING EXCELLENCE AWARD within SOCIAL ISSUES from DOCS WITHOUT BORDERS FILM FESTIVAL
DOCS WITHOUT BORDERS is a FilmFreeway “gold rated” online film festival with affiliations to the Universal Film & Festival Organization. The festival focuses exclusively on documentary filmmakers and distribution efforts.
THE SWEETEST LAND
In urban America, there are community promises made, triumphant political speeches performed and conditions, which rarely change. Yet when the gunshots sound and blood spills, who shows up?
From the midnight surgeons, to a community on the brink of hope and sacrifice, THE SWEETEST LAND investigates real stories of violence, prevention and change, where complacency can no longer be an option.
In 2017, nearly 40,000 people died from gun violence in the U.S. according to the CDC.
Aswad Thomas is a survivor. A victim of a Hartford shooting outside a convenience store in 2009. He is also one of the people featured in the documentary The Sweetest Land, which looks at the epidemic of gun violence in the city of Hartford.
This hour, Thomas joins us along with the documentary’s director. What steps can local policymakers and public health take to effectively address gun violence? We take a closer look and we want to hear from you.
Jeff Teitler – Director of The Sweetest Land and Professor of Communication at Central Connecticut State University
Aswad Thomas – Survivor of a Hartford shooting in 2009; Managing Director of Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice, a national network that aims to bring crime survivors into policy conversations about crime and justice (@Aswad_T)
Luke Bronin – Mayor of Hartford, Connecticut (@MayorBronin)
Chion Wolf contributed to this show.
THE SWEETEST LAND
In urban America, there are community promises made, triumphant political speeches performed and conditions, which rarely change. Yet when the gunshots sound and blood spills, who shows up?
From the midnight surgeons, to a community on the brink of hope and sacrifice, THE SWEETEST LAND investigates real stories of violence, prevention and change, where complacency can no longer be an option.
For Sintia Arelus, college was never about late-night hours in an editing lab….but last semester, changing that would transform everything. In the Fall of 2016, producers of New England Sports Network, (NESN) contacted CCSU in-search of college students, who might be interested in developing sports-related films for their NEXT PRODUCER competition. While normally, this would not be an appropriate fit for a first-semester Film student, certain times call for extreme efforts.
Wanting to participate, Sintia immediately chose to accelerate her learning. She focused on issues of race and spent a mass of hours, filming, editing, fixing errors, along with regularly sending midnight images for feedback. Slowly, her story-telling technique was growing.
With only 7 weeks to cram in 16 weeks of work, Sintia engaged in basic directing, illuminated scenes and dramatically increased her production abilities – accomplishments all students are capable of. Though frustrating, (if not excruciating under such a deadline), the uptick in work and learning was worth it. In fact, she produced her first film within the short deadline.
Today, we are pleased to announce Sintia Arelus is now amongst the top–three for NESN’S Next Producer Competition.
Currently, Sinta’s film is scheduled to be broadcast at Fenway Park in Boston. An amazing accomplishment!
Posted by Jeff Teitler, Associate Professor – Filmmaking – Department of Communication, Central Connecticut State University.
To see the write up in the Hartford Courant, CLICK HERE
Posted by, Professor, Jeff Teitler – CCSU Film Program – Department of Communication
First generation CCSU college graduate, CCSU Film alumnus and Hartford-based filmmaker, Rashad Frett ’09 gains acceptance to New York University’s MFA Film program at Tisch School of The Arts. The highly competitive and prestigious Kanbar Institute of Film and Television accepts only 7 percent of applicants. Frett will now advance his filmmaking under notable directors, writers and cinematographers including, Spike Lee and Kenneth Friedman and Sandra Sissel to name a few.
Frett, credits Central Connecticut State University’s Film program and the Department of Communication for his artistic foundations, mentorship and development. The CCSU Film program is proud to have played a part in not only Frett’s extraordinary accomplishment, but also in the meaningful work, skills and recognitions our students and alumni produce and achieve regularly.
Though artistic study in Filmmaking is not easy, the desire to tell stories, along with the ability to practice, evaluate and improve, earns powerful talents, skills and stories.
Frett’s accomplishment speaks to this notion. For additional information, see: www.ccsufilm.com
To see the write up in the Hartford Courant, CLICK HERE
Posted by, Professor, Jeff Teitler – CCSU Film Program – Department of Communication
Whether you live in New York City or Roswell New Mexico, gun violence has become a nationwide epidemic. Through extensive research and lengthy persistence, Jeffrey Teitler examines an often overlooked side of this issue; prevention. We talked with the director/professor about process and the lessons he learned while making this film.
LOWER EAST SIDE FILM FESTIVAL: YOUR FILM FEELS LIKE A NEW TAKE ON A VERY IMPORTANT ISSUE IN OUR SOCIETY, WHERE DID YOU GET THE IDEA TO MAKE THIS FILM?
Jeffrey Teitler: Living in Connecticut, few would deny the devastating toll that a gun or knife can have. Exploring this, for years I spent nights and weekends in one of America’s most violent cities. Quickly realizing how much there was to learn, an entirely different story and unlikely findings emerged.
Hartford is Connecticut’s Capitol City, a location where gun violence prevention remains a hot topic. But within the inner city, finding any social service organizations or violence prevention initiatives, which offered substantial opportunities for those most at-risk or in-need, became difficult. Moreover, as urban victims of violence and families were consistently abandoned from mental health services, job training and life skills, it begged the question, who is good…and what do we stand for?
LESFF: YOU HAVE AMAZING ACCESS TO YOUR CHARACTERS IN THE FILM. HOW DID YOU GO ABOUT GAINING THIS ACCESS?
JT: Thank you! Persistence was the key. We began slow with one reverend, whose work focused on victims of violence. As I was gathering a mass of images and stories, it grew into something that inspired other organizations…but none of it came easy. We were rejected regularly. Wanting multiple perspectives, as I was filming on one story, my colleagues and producers, Dr. Serafin Mendez-Mendez and Ron Kowalczyk, were gaining access to others.
During the process, I met many extraordinary people – most during their worst of times. On the other hand, there were days when multiple gunshots victims arrived in the emergency room and instantly you see great changes. Uncontrollable bleeding is met with the best, life-saving efforts. In a moment, a space transforms as a mass of highly skilled, extensively trained individuals rush to save a life. That is a powerful reality of what our system can accomplish.
LESFF:WERE THERE ANY SURPRISES THAT CAME UP WHILE MAKING THIS FILM?
JT: Lesson 1: Abandon preconceived notions. Surprises occurred all the time… While filming at the trauma center, I thought gaining the trust of gunshot victims and their families would be challenging. The notion of requesting permission was extraordinarily humbling. But my assumptions were wrong. Over 90% of the victims I filmed (and there were many) not only signed on, but were glad filming was occurring. They gave revealing and private glimpses into their families, vulnerable moments, treatment and humanity. Instant bonds occurred ripping through stereotypes and forming meaningful relationships. They still last today.
LESSON 2: RISK: Frustrated with the lack of mental health counselors, victims’ services, prevention providers, etc., I wrote the CDC’s Director of the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control. Understanding that local NGO’s were not returning my calls, surely the director of a major federal public health institute would be just as absent. Yet, within a week, I received a message from Dr. Linda DeGutis, (the CDC’s director). DeGutis was not only fully engaged, but she also invited a test screening of the film at the CDC. There are good and responsive people working in prevention.
LESSON 3: HOPE. After years of filming, my hard-drives were filled with live shootouts, murders and a mass of preventable urban pain. The weight of developing something meaningful from this was ever-present. As a small micro production, I edited for many years and the task of telling a story which is actionable and meaningful was daunting. To help with feedback, we privately tested the film at a number of institutes. Yet, it was during one test-screening, where I observed a film participant, (a victim of gun violence who nearly died years ago), end up speaking with the film at the most prestigious law school in the land, (Harvard). It revealed the power of a story.
LESFF:THE RESEARCH REALLY SHOWS IN THIS FILM. HOW LONG WAS THE RESEARCH PROCESS FOR YOUR FILM?
JT: Recognizing lacking prevention methods and absent victims’ services by social service organizations, was not something I anticipated seeing. In fact, it wasn’t a story I wanted to tell. Perhaps it was just a few complacent leaders or prevention initiatives gone wrong. I tried many times to dismiss the anecdotal evidence, which kept repeating itself. But when you see a youth or good family in-need, ignored by services, which can make all the difference in their futures, it gets to you. I started research with small searches on prevention and found a CNN report about the City of Chicago, which spent (or misspent) 55 million dollars on random violence prevention initiatives as the murder rate continued. Additional searches revealed that some well-funded, nationally known violence prevention initiatives, increased rates of violence, but who is watching? That’s when I saw the Blue Prints study, which placed much of what I saw in perspective. That research also inspired our connections with leading prevention scientists, such as Dr. DeGutis, who is now the film’s official advisor.
Looking back, there are so many ways to tell the story of urban violence. However, I don’t know of any current story that focuses on this issue of prevention. Telling that story, based in the best available evidence, our hope is to inspire conversations, which can save lives and improve policies. We are so honored to have been selected within the Lower East Side Film Festival.
Article by Josh Greenwood
YOU CAN SEE THE SWEETEST LAND ON MONDAY JUNE 10TH, 7:30 PM AT VILLAGE EAST CINEMA!
In urban America, there are community promises made, triumphant political speeches performed and conditions, which rarely change. Yet when the gunshots sound and blood spills, who shows up?
From the midnight surgeons, to a community on the brink of hope and sacrifice, THE SWEETEST LAND investigates real stories of violence, prevention and change, where complacency can no longer be an option.
We are so pleased and honored to announce that THE SWEETEST LAND has been selected to screen, on June 10th, 2019 within the Lower East Side Film Festival. NYC.
The Lower East Side Film Festival (LESFF) features the innovative work of creative, up-and-coming filmmakers, and showcases those films in the heart of New York City’s Lower East Side. Past Lower East Side Film Festival judges and talent have included Ethan Hawke, Susan Sarandon, Willem Dafoe, Denis O’Hare, Laverne Cox, Rosario Dawson, Rami Malek, Parker Posey, Ilana Glazer, Dolly Parton, Indya Moore, Samantha Bee, Dana Brunetti, Natasha Lyonne, Marky Ramone, Rebecca Miller, Sasheer Zamata, Judah Friedlander, Lizzy Caplan, Amy Arbus, Justin Bond, Nick Kroll, Eliza Dushku, and many, many more.
On behalf of the cast and crew of The Sweetest Land, we would like to the Lower East Side Film Festival for the recognition and desire to bring a new conversation to NYC.
THE SWEETEST LAND
In urban America, there are community promises made, triumphant political speeches performed and conditions, which rarely change. Yet when the gunshots sound and blood spills, who shows up?
From the midnight surgeons, to a community on the brink of hope and sacrifice, THE SWEETEST LAND investigates real stories of violence, prevention and change, where complacency can no longer be an option.
Jessica Courtright of Augusta, Georgia was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma over a year ago. 800 miles away in Connecticut, we heard about her story. What occurred thereafter became an incredible journey of engagement, hope and action.
BACKGROUND: Parenting is no easy task. Ask Rebecca Courtright, whose daughter, Jessica was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. The diagnosis set off a year of anxiety-filled moments, terrible setbacks and dark days. Using social media, they requested hope, prayers and (if possible) assistance. They posted regularly and shared heartbreaking photographs of Jessica’s struggle with the disease.
800 miles away, Jessica’s images were presented in a 228 basic filmmaking class. There, we discussed ideas for engagement and action. We connected with friends, associates and asked them to send in messages of hope for Jessica and her family. The objective was to infuse extreme amounts of kindness and light into the situation. While we did not know Jessica or her family, the simple act of engaging within this situation inspired so many to participate.
At CCSU, we have a community engagement initiative. As a film instructor, it is my hope that the films we produce are executed with inspired spirit, good intent, thought and a deep desire to communicate. In this very basic step, we wanted to let a family know, they were not alone.
THERE IS MORE TO DO: The fiscal and emotional toll of pediatric cancer requires the engagement of many. If you are aware of those effected by this issue in Connecticut, let us know if we can help: CLICK HERE
Posted by: Jeffrey Teitler – Professor, Central Connecticut State University
Participants include: Central Connecticut State University’s Students and Alumni – Shae Sau, (ESPN) Sarah Yacavone (Walt Disney World), Amanda Bitgood (WRCH), Brandon Couloute (Choreographer), Nick Trifone, Jensun Yonjan (CCSU Student), John Sudol (CCSU Track Team) NBC Connecticut’s Darren Sweeney & Tara Joyce ESPN’s Prim Siripipat and Randy Scott Sudor Taino – Karla Medina/Vibe Tribe 100.5’s Allan Mike and Mary, 96.5’s Damon Scott and Gina The LDS Church of AZ, Tisha Illingworth, Operation Give Life/Randy Boyer, Beth Naji and many others who engaged, sent in films and used production for good within this critical issue. For additional information, click Jessica Courtright Posted by Associate Professor, Jeffrey B. Teitler – Department of Communication – Central Connecticut State University