“Enlighten, Entertain, and Envision through the world of documentary film.” And so reads the fitting tag for DocUtah. Now in its seventh year, the DocUtah International Documentary Film Festival prides itself on presenting the very best in documentaries from around the globe. For this epic 2016 outing, Executive Director Phil Tuckett and his team of passionate organizers have assembled a stellar line-up of over 60 films. Features, shorts, student films, seminars, special events, etc. DocUtah promises to offer up a little something for everyone. Cooler still, this outstanding DSU-hosted film fest is held in beautiful St. George UT, a city that isn’t only known for its hospitality, but for its breathtaking surrounding areas as well. Translation: Catch a handful of brilliant documentaries, then take a scenic drive through gorgeous Zion Canyon.
I’ve had the good fortune to serve on the jury for DocUtah in the past and aside from the undeniable quality of the films on display, this outstanding fest also serves as a continuous reminder that a great documentary sets out to do so much more than simply educate. From September 6th-10th, come on out to St. George and experience DocUtah for yourself. You’ll see exactly what I’m talking about.
For now, I thought I’d share a handful of Must-See selections from the upcoming fest:
ABOVE AND BELOW (119 MIN.)
With “Above and Below,” documentarian Nicolas Steiner weaves together a poetic tale of five individuals and their stories of survival in the contemporary world. A bunker in the California desert, a research station in Utah, and maze-like underground sewer tunnels in the heart of Las Vegas serve as your backdrops.
COFFIN CRUISIN (16 MIN.)
I love a quirky documentary, and “Coffin Cruisin” certainly looks to fit the bill. This short follows a Charlotte-based club of macabre motorists as they share their customized hearses and love of all things Halloween with the world.
DOG POWER (33 MIN.)
“Dog Power” delves into the world of canine powered sports. This short not only gives us a glimpse at the dogs themselves but also their human teammates. I’m a sucker for a solid sports flick and “Dog Power” looks as rousing as it does inspirational.
EUDAIMONIA (26 MIN.)
This short looks to be a fascinating and all too relatable exploration into the lives of 4 very different creative-types who attempt to fulfill their passions and dreams all why tending to their normal day-to-day demands. The pursuing of creative passions while navigating your way through work and family is never an easy task and this short looks to delve into the subject with honesty and insight.
JANIS: LITTLE GIRL BLUE (103 MIN.)
We lost the great Janis Joplin far too soon. She was only 27 when she died. With Amy Berg’s new documentary “Janis: Little Girl Blue,” we’re given an in depth look into the life of this rock icon by way of exclusive stock footage and rare interviews. What truly boggles the mind is that it’s taken this long for someone to give us a comprehensive look at the life of this legendary singer. Having said that, better late than never. “Little Girl Blue” looks fantastic!
LO AND BEHOLD (98 MIN.)
In “Lo and Behold,” the great Werner Herzog (“Grizzly Man”) explores our relationship with online technology. From the origin of the internet to robotics to everything in between, Herzog covers a lot of ground and punctuates this chilling examination with his own brand of dry (and colorful) humor.
MONSTERMAN (82 MIN.)
I was never a metal-head as a child but I certainly was a monster kid so I can relate to the subject at the center of the documentary. Finland native Tomi was bullied without mercy as a youngster mostly because of his love for the rock band Kiss. So, Tomi would grow up and turn a negative into a positive by way of a reputable rock career: The kind of rock career that would make the likes of monster-tinged GWAR proud. After hitting hard times however, Tomi attempts to stage an epic comeback. Thankfully, there was a documentary crew hanging around to capture it all.
NATHAN EAST: FOR THE RECORD (85 MIN.)
Bass players very seldom get the glory but there is no question that Nathan East is one of the most influential bass players in the business. East went on the road with Barry White when he was just 16 and never looked back. “For the Record” gives us a glimpse into this stunning musician’s 3 decade plus career and includes interviews with the amazing talent he’s worked with through the years. Included: Eric Clapton, Phil Collins, Lionel Richie, Quincy Jones, Vince Gill, and Herbie Hancock.
SINCE: THE BOMBING OF PAN AM FLIGHT 103 (84 MIN.)
270 lives were tragically lost in the horrific bombing of Pan Am flight 103 in 1988. In addition to the lives lost, this incident ushered in new age in terrorism. This doc follows the lives of the victims’ families as they seek justice only to see it all unravel further in the name of Libyan oil. “Since” looks gut-wrenching, powerful, and all too timely.
TO HEAR, NOT FEAR: A FATHER DAUGHTER DIALOGUE (36 MIN.)
Self proclaimed Film Fanatic Bruce Bennett delivers a touching and thoughtful look at the bond between father and daughter. This film explores the difficulties and joys of this particular bond all while expressing the importance of communication. This is the one film in the line-up that I’ve actually seen and I greatly look forward to experiencing it again with my daughter.
These 10 titles only scratch the surface! For a look at extensive DocUtah info including line-up, events, trailers, and ticket information, CLICK HERE!
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