Against the backdrop of the sixth mass extinction, an all-woman team of biologists set out to save bats from a deadly fungal disease, but when the COVID-19 pandemic interrupts their work, they are sent down a path of discovery that illuminates the connections between bat conservation and the spread of infectious disease.

Special Guests: Producer Matthew Podolsky and Filmmaker Kristin Tièche

In the Midwest, problem-solving is a quiet, collective triumph. It’s the "roll-up-your-sleeves" grit that turns a neighbor’s broken tractor or a frozen pipe into a shared victory. That steady, practical ingenuity offers a deep sense of purpose, rooted in community, resilience, and a genuine kindness for the world around us.

Special Guests: Producer Dan Wanschura and Filmmakers Nick Loud and Grant Piering

Catching Pinecones is the story of Jan and Herb Conn, pioneering rock climbers and cave explorers who lived life to the fullest on their own terms. Rejecting a conventional lifestyle in pursuit of adventure and fun, the Conns’ story reveals a legacy of renowned discoveries and their philosophies for a simple, well-lived life.

Special Guest: Filmmaker Chad Heddleston

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is the birthplace of organized skiing in America.It is also home to the National Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame and one of the oldest ski clubs in the country. This documentary film explores the skiing culture that continues to shape the lives of those who consider themselves Yoopers.

Special Guest: Filmmaker Ryan Busch

Detroit endured six decades of massive disinvestment, losing its primary industry in what is often described as the largest economic withdrawal in U.S. history. Its industry collapsed, its skyline dimmed. Yet the city’s spirit refused to vanish. Some call what followed the greatest comeback story in the nation. Others insist Detroit never left at all. Now, through the eyes of a two-time Emmy Award–winning filmmaker and the voice of a celebrated poet, comes a story told from the ground up.

Special Guest: Filmmaker Stephen McGee

We are woven into a single, breathing tapestry. From the rhythmic hum of the bees to the steady heartbeat of beasts, we share one fragile home … bound together by love, breath, and life.

Special Guests: Filmmakers Nicholas Stachurski and Jason Whalen

Bell’s Two-Hearted Ale is America’s No.1 IPA. The now infamous & iconic trout image is found in every convenience store nationwide. The legends behind this label and many others have been buried in folklore for nearly 40 years, but the vision created at Bell’s started a revolution in the craft brewing industry that changed what a beer label could be. This is the unconventional story of an artist whose love of fishing, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and beer found its way into every store in America. Dave Chapelle, during a comedy set in Kalamazoo said aloud, “Why the hell did you put a fish on the label?” However, eccentric artist Ladislav Hanka’s reasoning is simple yet personal. Just like the rest of his artwork.

Presented with support from The Minervini Group

Special Guests: Filmmakers Keith Patterson, Rory K. McHarg and (Bret Miller) with artists Ladislav and Jana Hanka

A secret cinematic experience awaits, hidden in plain sight. Keep your eyes sharp and ears open … the reveal is coming very soon.

In the late 1970s, Satish Bhaskar embarked on an epic journey along India’s coastline and the spectacular Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where he uncovered the vital nesting beaches of sea turtles. During his death-defying quest, he unravels mysteries surrounding these enigmatic ocean creatures – and sets out to save them from extinction.

Can images truly mirror the soul? By exploring these diverse lives and dreams, these shorts invite us to create a global home, or simply remind us of what we seeking.

A quiet Upper Michigan town becomes the center of an international media frenzy after three scientists discover a record-breaking ‘Humongous Fungus’ living next door. Decades later, the town and the scientists continue to embrace the fungus as a growing symbol of community and wonder. Who will be crowned Mr. Fungi? Will there be a giant mushroom pizza? Will the ‘Humongous Fungus’ outlive us all?

Special Guest: (Writer and Producer Tim Warmanen)