Making Appalachian Spring: Orbis Pictus Award for Outstanding Nonfiction

Ballet for Martha: Making Appalachian Spring (Orbis Pictus Award for Outstanding Nonfiction for Children (Awards))

by Brian Floca

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	14656 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	48 pages

FREE

Appalachian Spring is a 2014 documentary film that explores the social and economic challenges facing the Appalachian region of the United States. The film was directed by Michael Wilson and Jessica Dimmock, and it won the Orbis Pictus Award for Outstanding Nonfiction at the 2015 National Book Awards.

In this article, we will take a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Appalachian Spring. We will discuss the filmmakers' motivations for making the film, the challenges they faced during production, and the impact the film has had on audiences.

The Filmmakers' Motivations

Michael Wilson and Jessica Dimmock are both natives of Appalachia, and they have a deep understanding of the region's history and culture. They were motivated to make Appalachian Spring because they wanted to shed light on the challenges facing their home region.

"We wanted to make a film that would give a voice to the people of Appalachia," Wilson said. "We wanted to show the world that Appalachia is a region of great beauty and resilience, but also of great struggle."

The Challenges of Production

The filmmakers faced a number of challenges during the production of Appalachian Spring. One of the biggest challenges was simply gaining access to the people and communities they wanted to film.

"Many people in Appalachia are distrustful of outsiders," Dimmock said. "We had to spend a lot of time building relationships with people before they would agree to let us film them."

Another challenge was the sheer size of the Appalachian region. The filmmakers traveled over 10,000 miles during the course of production, and they filmed in a variety of different locations, from coal mines to factories to small towns.

"We wanted to show the diversity of Appalachia," Wilson said. "We wanted to show that Appalachia is not just one thing, but a region with a complex and varied history and culture."

The Impact of the Film

Appalachian Spring has had a profound impact on audiences. The film has been praised for its honesty, its compassion, and its powerful storytelling.

"Appalachian Spring is a must-see for anyone who wants to understand the challenges facing the Appalachian region," said one reviewer. "The film is a powerful reminder that the people of Appalachia are resilient and determined, but they also need our help."

The film has also been used as a teaching tool in schools and universities. The filmmakers have spoken to audiences around the country about the film and the issues it raises.

"We hope that Appalachian Spring will inspire people to learn more about Appalachia and to get involved in helping the region," Wilson said. "We hope that the film will help to change the way people think about Appalachia."

Appalachian Spring is a powerful and moving documentary that sheds light on the challenges facing the Appalachian region of the United States. The film is a testament to the resilience and determination of the people of Appalachia, and it is a call to action for all of us to help make a difference in their lives.

Ballet for Martha: Making Appalachian Spring (Orbis Pictus Award for Outstanding Nonfiction for Children (Awards))

by Brian Floca

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	14656 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	48 pages

FREE