Belief Matters

Compassion and understanding are tenets of all faiths.  In today’s world, there is a universal call for tolerance, justice and charity.  In other words … Belief Matters.  Part of the Media that Matters collection, these documentary shorts showcase issues surrounding interfaith respect, human rights, and the environment.  The subjects of these short films express belief in the future, belief in others and belief in themselves.  It is the hope of Hartley Film Foundation and Arts Engine that by viewing these films you are inspired to believe in the possibilities of change. 

My Fellow American, directed by Rob Gardner

2:49 mins

What if recognizable faces of neighbors, colleagues and friends were suddenly vilified by public rhetoric? 

Article of Faith, directed by Christina Antonakos-Wallace

10 mins

Portrait of a Sikh-American activist who organizes Sikh-youth to combat harassment.

A Nomad’s Life, directed by Lynn True and Nelson Walker

9:34 mins

A young Tibetan family questions whether their nomadic traditions can survive.

Lessons from a Tailor, directed by Galen Summer

8:23 mins

An entrepreneur’s infectious passion brings his community more than just jobs.

Day Job, directed by Sara Hopman

6:36 mins

Day laborers voice their grievances.

The Last Town, directed by Yan Chun Su

7:26 mins

A last look at a 2,000-year-old town before it is flooded by China’s Three Gorges Dam Project.

Shades of the Borders, directed by Patrick Smith

12 mins

One island, two countries, many skin colors.

The Next Wave, directed by Jennifer Redfearn and Tim Metzger

8:03 mins

The Carteret islanders relocate as some of the world’s first climate change refugees.

Exiled in America, directed by Angela Torres Camarena

9:23 mins

Five siblings struggle to support their American livelihoods after their mother is deported.

Will I Be Next?, directed by Ralph Rollins

6:32 mins

Chicago youth explore the effects of gun violence.

I Am Sean Bell, directed by Stacey Muhammad

10:36 mins

Young boys reflect on the Sean Bell tragedy, in a city where the lives of young black men are often cut short.

Every Third Bite, directed by The Meerkat Media Collective

8:53 mins

In the past few years, millions of bees have disappeared from their hives, with multiple effects on our ecosystem.