VPM is excited to present two films at the 34th annual Virginia Film Festival, taking place from October 27-31. This year, the acclaimed festival returns to Charlottesville with an entirely in-person schedule that will also include various COVID-19 precautions.
Both made in the wake of protests against systemic racism in the summer of 2020, the featured documentaries explore the uprisings through the lens of history and art. The films, which premiered to broadcast audiences earlier this year, will each be screened at The Culbreth Theater.
VPM will present HOW THE MONUMENTS CAME DOWN, a documentary detailing the history of white supremacy and Black resistance in Richmond. Recounted by history-makers, descendants, scholars and activists, the film uncovers how Confederate monuments came to shape Richmond’s landscape and why protestors demanded they come down.
VPM will also present a screening of MENDING WALLS, a documentary that highlights the groundbreaking public art project created by Hamilton Glass to establish empathy and connection in the community through art. Glass created this project in the wake of community unrest following the death of George Floyd, bringing together 30 artists to create 16 murals and spark conversations and promote healing.
The festival will also include panel discussions with the filmmakers and members of the casts. HOW THE MONUMENTS CAME DOWN will feature directors Hannah Ayers and Lance Warren with subject Joseph Rogers, cast member, civic activist and educator, moderated by VPM News anchor Angie Miles. MENDING WALLS will feature producer Pam Hervey, co-producer Hamilton Glass, and Matt Lively with Marc Cheatham as moderator.
VPM is a premiere sponsor of the Virginia Film Festival.
