Advanced Documentary Film – Spring 2018

These films were created by MFA in Documentary Expression students Mary Blessey, Susie Penman, and Jonathan Smith for SST 538: Advanced Documentary Film taught by Instructor Ava Lowrey, Spring 2018.

Every year, Dr. Nancy Liu leads the annual Chinese New Year Festival in Jackson, Mississippi, providing an opportunity for Chinese Americans in the area to celebrate and share their culture while welcoming local people of all backgrounds to participate.

After serving over 10 years in a Louisiana prison, Maryam Uloho’s eyes were opened to the struggles that ex-offenders face when they’re released back into society. Her thrift store, Sister Hearts, helps those men and women get back on their feet.

Chef John Stokes started Tarasque Cucina to serve good food incorporating local and seasonal ingredients. In the process he’s learned what makes good food, not just good tasting food. This film follows John’s focus on ingredients, from the kitchen back to the field.