The Films

• Year 2025
• Country USA
• Runtime 8 min
• Director Dusan Harminc

Filmmaker in Attendance, Michigan Premiere

A short documentary about the importance of Native American language revitalization shot in Milwaukee, Keshena and Bjorklunden with Indigenous Nations Poets

• Year 2025
• Country USA
• Runtime 11 min
• Director Daniel Larson

Filmmaker in Attendance, Family Friendly, Michigan Premiere, World Premiere

Green Bay Lake Sturgeon during their spring spawning run are blocked from traveling up the Menominee River by the first set of dams. The 12-minute documentary explores the sturgeon lift operation, how the sturgeon make their way past the dams and spawn 22 miles upriver at the Grand Rapids Dam.

• Year 2024
• Country Canada
• Runtime 13 min
• Director Louis Moulin

Filmmaker in Attendance, Has Subtitles, Michigan Premiere

Bloodhound dog handlers have an essential role in Québec’s hunting ecosystem. Thanks to them, a large number of wounded and lost animals are found during hunting season. Meet Yves Martineau as he follows the long waits and intense searches that come with the job.

• Year 2025
• Country USA
• Runtime 23 min
• Director Nicholas Stachurski

Filmmaker in Attendance, Adult Language, Has Subtitles, Staff Pick

In the heart of Detroit, a city with a rich history and a tapestry of diverse communities, “Land of Lost Toys” follows the interconnected lives of its residents, brought together by a shared passion to combat the city’s vast stray dog epidemic. This mosaic of characters carry their own burdens and dreams, navigating the challenges of life in Detroit. With conflicted views on the breeding, spaying and neutering this group of characters discuss the saddening results of disposability culture, lack of municipal support and overall care for “humans’ best friend”. Following our lead character James, we get a unique look into the world of dog fostering and rescuing as he navigates his own internal hardships and the emotional support dogs bring to him.