The Los Angeles Film Festival (LAFF) naturally presents a diverse line-up of independent films, but it’s the documentaries that are creating a buzz. Four in particular are excellent films that deliver social commentary, stories of inspiration, as well as charm. So seek out these four fine documentaries either at LAFF, or later through theatrical or online distribution.
‘Liyana,’ a glorious mix of doc and animation from Swaziland
Having its World Premiere at the LAFF, “Liyana” will certainly captivate audiences with its mix of animation and interview footage of orphaned children in Swaziland.
These kids whose young lives have already been haunted by death, illness and destruction, now live at a group home on picturesque farmlands. Coming together in this new family, they are asked to create a narrative, which turns into the amazing story of “Liyana” a Swazi girl on a quest to save her twin brothers. Gorgeous illustrations and cinematography make this a winning doc from Aaron and Amanda Kopp (DP’s of “The Hunting Ground”).
‘Mighty Ground,’ a singer with a mighty voice
If you live in or have visited Los Angeles you’re aware of our homeless crisis, some 47,000 people are living on the streets. “Mighty Ground” chronicles one such man, Ronald Troy Collins, a man who has been plagued with addiction, but also a man with a golden voice.
Ronald dreams of singing; it brings him joy. But will he be able to achieve his goal to beat his addictions and leave the streets behind? Following his journey, this documentary is directed by Delila Vallot and produced by Aimee Schoof and Isen Robbins.
‘Skid Row Marathon,’ a judge starts on a running club on Skid Row
Another amazing documentary featuring the homeless, “Skid Row Marathon” tells the story of Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Craig Mitchell, who when visiting the Midnight Mission on behalf of a former convict, decides to start a running club.
Judge Mitchell believes that if he could get a few of the men and women from the Mission to commit to running and getting in shape for a marathon, then the benefits would ripple into their personal lives as well. A stunning journey chronicling the Judge and five other members, “Skid Row Marathon” will have audiences cheering these runners.
Mark and Gabriele Hayes directed the film.
‘Monkey Business: The Adventures of Curious George’s Creators’ delights
Most of us have grown up with the wonderful “Curious George” children’s books, which told the tale of George, the monkey whose curiosity got him into various predicaments. In the remarkable, “Monkey Business: The Adventures of Curious George’s Creators,” directed by Ema Ryan Yamazaki, we learn about the series creators, Hans and Margret Rey. German Jews who lived in Paris after their marriage, the Reys escaped out of the Nazi-occupied city on bikes with very few belongings. But luckily for us, one of those belongings was the unpublished “George” manuscript. An incredible tale, told in a mix of interviews and “Curious George”-styled animation, “Monkey Business: The Adventures of Curious George’s Creators will delight all.
The Los Angeles Film Festival runs June 14 – 22. Film schedules and ticketing information can be found at the LA Film Festival’s website.
