Short Film Program # 13 – Short Realities

American Nightmare: Made in China - After losing the normalcy of their lives and millions of dollars, Florida homeowners battle the hazards of defective Chinese drywall, hoping to soon repair their homes and families. With little support, homeowners are seeking help from anyone willing to support them during these difficult and unfortunate times. With the American economy already struggling, many are starting to ask one other, “What does quality really mean to America?”  Directed by: Briana Frapart

Dreams ForSale: The Rise and Fall of Lehigh Acres,Florida - This debut documentary film from director Raymond A. Schillinger tells the story of Lehigh Acres, Florida, an inland community ravaged by the recent foreclosure crisis. Nearly a half century of history is recounted by the living citizen witnesses to this unique, fascinating tale of boom and bust, stretching back to the early days of Florida's postwar real estate speculation and arriving at today's economic catastrophe. And yet, rising out of the rubble of half-built homes and empty streets is a deep-seated hope for the future of this once tightly knit community. Directed by: Raymond Schillinger

Therapeutic Justice:Life Inside Drug Court - 'Therapeutic Justice' focuses on the drug court in Fayetteville, Arkansas, a remarkable program that has rehabilitated hundreds of non-violent drug offenders. It is one of the most successful drug courts in the U.S. and the only one with a regular TV show. The film tells the story of drug court from the perspective of Judge Mary Ann Gunn, the program's charismatic leader, and from the perspective of several participants, including former NFL player Matt Jones. The audience sees the inner-workings of drug court and even witnesses one drug court session held inside a middle school. Despite its success, the program is in danger of being terminated if it does not receive much-needed funding from the state. Directed by: Jesse Abdenour

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