Mackinaw‘s Hometown News Site

MEXICAN DREAM offers viewers a vibrant exploration of Malena’s journey through resilience, understanding, and education in the heart of Mexico City. Under Laura Plancarte’s direction, this documentary pushes beyond the typical narrative of struggle, showing a powerful story of empowerment, motherhood, and the unyielding determination of a woman reshaping her destiny.

HELEN AND THE BEAR transports us back to the 1970s when all bets were off. It showcases a decade of radical changes through the lives of an intriguing duo: Helen H. McCloskey and Paul N. "Pete" McCloskey, Jr. Under the direction of Alix Blair, this documentary frames an environmental crusader and a daring member of Congress, depicting how their passionate struggles in the public sphere connected and countered with a deeply personal love story.

THE RIDE AHEAD takes us on a journey with Samuel Habib, a young man who doesn’t allow his zest for life to be confined or defined by his physical disability. Co-directed by Samuel and his father, Dan Habib, this documentary offers an unprecedented look into daily life when navigating a world not built for those with disabilities. Employing GoPro cameras attached directly to Samuel's wheelchair, the film achieves a gripping first-person perspective that intimately connects audiences to his challenges.

Journey with director Jalena Keane-Lee to the heart of Hawaii with STANDING ABOVE THE CLOUDS. This is a vibrant showcase of passion, tradition, and unyielding resistance. Keane-Lee navigates the turbulent waters of Native Hawaiian activism against the towering specter of modern scientific advancement, specifically the contentious Thirty Meter Telescope project on sacred Mauna Kea. This experience challenges even the most earnest understanding of what it means to stand your ground for the things that matter and mean something to you.

Director Todd Bieber blends investigative journalism with lightheartedness in AMERICAN CATS: THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE CUDDLY, leading viewers through the murky waters of the billion-dollar cat declawing industry. This documentary is a movement meant to galvanize pet owners and animal lovers with its poignant message. I promise this documentary will stick with you forever… “like herpes.” (if you know, you know)