When my husband Davon and I started production on our film, A Public Space, we had little idea of what to expect. The film centers on the fate of the now defunct College Hill Reservoir in Eugene, Oregon, and explores the larger significance of public space. While Davon is an accomplished editor, this was our first filmmaking collaboration, and although we deeply believed in the idea, we weren’t sure how it would be received in the community.
There’s so much entertainment in the palms of our hands these days. Could a short film about the importance of public space and the beauty of community really resonate? As we wrapped up post-production and the local premiere loomed, we started to feel a little anxious. What if the few friends we dragged to the theatre were the only people that came? Thankfully, that isn’t out this story ends.
The screening of A Public Space at the Art House Theatre in Eugene on August 15, 2024 had an incredible turnout. In fact, the theater sold out the night before and people were being turned away from the door. We were overwhelmed by how many people cared about local cinema and their community and the post-screening Q&A and community conversation felt transformative.
The College Hill Reservoir was a local space that was deeply significant for many in the community. Its removal was not without controversy and feelings were still raw when our screening took place. However, perhaps because it is not an issue based film but more of an observational art piece blended with documentary elements, our film seemed to disarm the audience. It was something, like the reservoir, that the whole community could experience and enjoy on equal terms. The film facilitated a conversation about the reservoir which felt communal and cathartic, allowing everyone to engage in a thoughtful dialogue rather than a divisive debate. It reminded us of the power of art to bridge gaps and foster meaningful interactions, something we hope to carry into future projects.
One of the biggest takeaways from this experience is the importance of the independent theaters that support independent filmmaking. None of this would have been possible without the support of Ed Schiessl and the Art House Theatre in Eugene. Ed has been a champion of cinema for over 15 years and his love for film gave us the platform we needed to connect with our community. And for us as filmmakers, to be able to watch the film on the big screen, with an audience, with a community, just hits different. It isn’t an experience easily replicated.
We are so thankful for independent theaters that give independent filmmakers a voice and a venue to share their art with other people. And it might be a bit old school, but perhaps by looking at the way we experience movies in places like the Art House Theater, we can almost glimpse the future of movies. Because the magic of cinema really seems to shine when we cut through the noise, and begin to look up and engage with the world and people around us.
Listen to an interview with the Directors of A Public Space on KLCC.
The next screening of A Public Space will be on September 19th at the Eugene Planetarium, at the monthly meeting for the Eugene Astronomical Society.
