Click photos to learn more

Reverence

IT BEGINS WITH GOD

Jonesville: When Sunflowers Fall

Annie Turnbo Malone: The Untold Story

JAMES MICHAEL MARSHALL

Water Quality is in Our Hands

The Space

A Connecticut genealogist works to reclaim the lives of African Americans erased from history, reuniting descendants, restoring memorials, and bringing forgotten stories back into the American narrative.

Myla is stuck in a place where she feels like her art isn’t good enough and her inspiration has run dry. Forced to step away from the noise in her mind, she finally finds herself resting in the peace and comfort of the true Source of her gift. (4min)

Jonesville: When Sunflowers Fall explores the realities of urban renewal through the story of Jonesville, a community founded by African American Civil War veterans near Bowling Green, KY, that was seized and dismantled in the 1960s to make way for the expansion of Western Kentucky University. (56min:20sec)

JAMES MICHAEL MARSHALL
With extensive experience across various creative fields, James Michael Marshall is a filmmaker, writer, director, and educator. Marshall’s commitment to storytelling across all mediums—from stage to screen to the written word—informs his teaching approach, emphasizing both the craft and discipline required to succeed in creative industries. As an educator, Marshall has led workshops internationally, teaching creative writing, filmmaking, and directing in-person in Kentucky and New York, as well as via Zoom in France and Belgium. He believes that artistic talent must be paired with professional discipline and practical knowledge about the industry. James is currently serving at Simmons College (HBCU) in Louisville Kentucky.

Rodney Cox Jr. is a Los Angeles-based writer, director, actor, and producer. A graduate of the University of Kentucky, he began his creative career in front of the camera before transitioning into storytelling behind it. His work explores faith, identity, relationships, and the human experience through character-driven narratives. “The Space” marks his latest effort to create emotionally resonant films that invite reflection, conversation, and connection. Director Biography – Chris Rouse, Rodney Cox Jr (5min:06sec)

This documentary film encompasses the early life, struggles, business successes and continuing legacy of Annie Turnbo Malone.

Water is essential to everyone, and water quality is about what’s in your water and how it affects your land, livestock, family, and community. It includes things you can see, like sediment and color, and things you can’t see, like bacteria, chemicals, and nutrients. Good water quality means the water is safe to use—whether you’re giving it to livestock, irrigating your fields, or using it at home. Poor water quality can cause livestock illness, reduce crop yields, harm soil health, and even affect your household’s drinking water. The quality and amount of water you have can directly affect your yields, your herd, and your bottom line. Beyond the farm gate, water also supports natural areas like streams and wetlands, which help protect soil, reduce flooding, and support wildlife.
This film highlights the stories of farmers and programs in Kentucky that offer help to protect and improve water quality. It includes contacts, services, and links you can use right away. It includes federal and state programs that can assist farmers, along with clear, easy-to-use informational articles.
Director Biography – Christopher Edward Rapley, Nancy Dawson (27min:57sec)


2026 Submissions are closed!!